Discover India’s top 8 destinations to celebrations in Diwali 2024. Experience the full majesty of the festival of lights, complete with stunning displays, cultural events, and traditional celebrations.
Top Destinations to Celebrate Diwali 2024 in India
Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most frequently celebrated festivals in India. While the occasion is observed throughout the country, several locations stand out for their elaborate celebrations and distinct traditions. Here are the top ten spots in India to experience the beauty of Diwali 2024.
1. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Varanasi, one of the world’s oldest cities, celebrates Diwali 2024 with a spiritual twist. The Ganges River’s ghats are decked with hundreds of diyas (oil lamps), and the nightly aarti (ritual) creates a wonderful scene.
- Highlights: Ganga Aarti, boat trips to see the diyas floating down the river, and Dev Deepawali, a one-of-a-kind event in which the entire city is lit up with lamps.
- Best time to visit: Dev Deepawali, which is celebrated 15 days after Diwali in 2024.
2. Jaipur, Rajasthan
During Diwali 2024, the Pink City of Jaipur transforms into the City of Lights. The markets are magnificently illuminated, and the palaces and forts are adorned with lights and diyas, lending a regal air to the celebrations.
- Highlights: Illuminated markets such as Johari Bazaar, sound and light shows in forts, and Diwali handcraft buying.
- Best Time to Visit: Diwali 2024 week, when the city holds contests for the best-decorated bazaar.
3. Amritsar, Punjab
Diwali in Amritsar is unique because it coincides with Bandi Chhor Divas, a Sikh festival. The Golden Temple is brightly illuminated, and the surrounding Sarovar (lake) is covered in diyas, providing a stunning view.
- Highlights: Fireworks, devotional music performances, and a spectacular illumination of the Golden Temple.
- Best Time to Visit: On Diwali 2024 night, the entire Golden Temple compound is light.
4. Kolkata, West Bengal
Diwali is celebrated in Kolkata alongside the Kali Puja, which honors the Goddess Kali. The city comes alive with pandals (temporary constructions), diyas, and vibrant rangolis (decorative patterns).
- Highlights: Kali Puja celebrations include pandals, traditional sweets, and cultural performances.
- Best Time to Visit: The night of Kali Puja is when the festivities are at their peak.
5. Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh
Ayodhya, which is believed to be Lord Rama’s birthplace, celebrates Diwali in style in 2024. The city organizes Deepotsav, a large celebration in which millions of diyas are lit along the banks of the Saryu River.
- Highlights: Deepotsav is a celebration with cultural acts and light shows depicting Lord Rama’s life.
- Best Time to Visit: Deepotsav day, which normally occurs the day before Diwali 2024.
6. Mumbai, Maharashtra
Mumbai celebrates Diwali with grandeur, particularly along Marine Drive, where the skyline is lit up with fireworks. The city’s lively marketplaces and shopping complexes contribute to the joyful vibe.
- Highlights: Fireworks show on Marine Drive, Diwali-themed celebrations, and shopping at Crawford Market and Zaveri Bazaar.
- Best Time to Visit: Diwali 2024 night for fireworks and a festive mood.
7. Udaipur, Rajasthan
Udaipur, the city of lakes, provides a one-of-a-kind Diwali experience, combining breathtaking lakeside vistas with traditional ceremonies. The lit palaces and haveli courtyards create a stunning scene.
- Highlights: Fireworks over Lake Pichola, local dance and music shows, and Diwali 2024 banquets in classic hotels.
- Best Time to Visit: Diwali evening is when the city’s landmarks are illuminated.
8. Delhi
India’s capital city celebrates Diwali 2024 with extravagant decorations, cultural festivities, and grand fairs. The markets are buzzing with bustle, and the streets are decorated with lights and festive decor.
- Highlights: Diwali Mela (fair) in Dilli Haat, lit temples, and sweets shopping on Chandni Chowk.
- Best Time to Visit: Fairs and shopping take place during the week leading up to Diwali.
Conclusion
Diwali in India is more than a festival; it is an experience. Each community lends its own traditions and customs to the celebrations, providing a variety of ways to experience the Festival of Lights. Whether you seek spiritual experiences, cultural events, or simply a festive environment, these ten destinations are the best places to celebrate Diwali 2024 in India.
Read More : 7 Top Places to Celebrate Diwali 2024 in Uttar Pradesh