Diwali is one of India’s most cherished festivals. Celebrated with beautifully decorated homes, glowing diyas, colourful rangolis, traditional sweets and spectacular fireworks, the festival brings families and communities together in an atmosphere of happiness and togetherness.
But what if you could experience Diwali beyond your own home this year?
Imagine watching thousands of diyas illuminate the ghats of Varanasi, witnessing the royal charm of Jaipur decorated with festive lights, experiencing Ayodhya’s grand Deepotsav celebrations or enjoying a peaceful festive holiday in the mountains.
Diwali is also a wonderful opportunity to explore India’s cultural diversity. Every destination has its own traditions, celebrations, food and festive atmosphere, making travel during this season a truly memorable experience.
If you are planning a holiday around Diwali 2026, here are 10 incredible destinations in India worth considering.
1. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh: Witness the Magic of Dev Deepawali
Varanasi offers one of the most extraordinary festive experiences in India. Although Dev Deepawali is celebrated on Kartik Purnima, approximately 15 days after Diwali, it is an excellent destination for travellers who want to experience the spiritual beauty of the festive season.
The ghats of the River Ganga come alive with thousands of earthen lamps. The sight of illuminated temples, beautifully decorated riverfronts and traditional Ganga Aarti creates an atmosphere that is difficult to describe in words.
Things to experience:
Attend the famous Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Enjoy a boat ride along the illuminated ghats.
Explore the narrow streets and ancient temples of Varanasi.
Witness the spectacular Dev Deepawali celebrations.
Experience traditional Banarasi food and local culture.
Best for: Spiritual travellers, families, photographers and cultural explorers.
2. Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh: Experience the Grand Deepotsav
Ayodhya holds a special place in Indian culture and mythology as the birthplace of Lord Ram. The city is particularly meaningful during Diwali because the festival is traditionally associated with Lord Ram’s return to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile.
The city’s Deepotsav celebrations have become a major attraction, featuring spectacular lighting arrangements, illuminated temples, cultural performances and thousands of diyas.
Visitors can explore Ram Mandir, Hanuman Garhi, Ram Ki Paidi and other important religious sites while experiencing the festive atmosphere throughout the city.
Things to experience:
Visit the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple.
Explore Ram Ki Paidi and the Saryu River ghats.
Witness the city’s Deepotsav celebrations, subject to the official 2026 programme.
Attend evening aarti on the banks of the Saryu.
Explore Ayodhya’s traditional markets and local cuisine.
Best for: Families, spiritual travellers and people interested in Indian heritage.
3. Jaipur, Rajasthan: Celebrate Diwali Amid Royal Architecture
Jaipur, popularly known as the Pink City, transforms into a beautiful spectacle during Diwali.
Its historic markets, traditional buildings, hotels and shopping streets are decorated with colourful lights. Areas such as Johari Bazaar, Bapu Bazaar and MI Road are particularly attractive during the festive season.
The city’s combination of royal architecture, Rajasthani hospitality, traditional shopping and festive celebrations makes it an excellent destination for a Diwali holiday.
Things to experience:
Explore the beautifully decorated Johari Bazaar.
Visit Hawa Mahal, Amber Fort and City Palace.
Enjoy traditional Rajasthani food and festive sweets.
Shop for jewellery, handicrafts, textiles and souvenirs.
Experience a festive dinner at a heritage hotel.
Best for: Families, couples, shopping enthusiasts and luxury travellers.
4. Udaipur, Rajasthan: Enjoy a Royal Diwali by the Lakes
If you prefer a more relaxed and luxurious festive holiday, Udaipur is an excellent choice.
Known as the City of Lakes, Udaipur offers a beautiful combination of lakeside views, royal palaces, heritage hotels and traditional Rajasthani hospitality.
During Diwali, the city’s markets, homes and hotels are decorated with lights and diyas. The reflection of illuminated buildings on Lake Pichola creates a particularly beautiful setting for an evening celebration.
Things to experience:
Enjoy a boat ride on Lake Pichola.
Visit City Palace and Jagdish Temple.
Explore the charming streets around Gangaur Ghat.
Enjoy a traditional Rajasthani dining experience.
Book a stay at a heritage property for a royal festive holiday.
Best for: Couples, families and luxury holiday seekers.
5. Amritsar, Punjab: Celebrate Bandi Chhor Divas at the Golden Temple
Amritsar offers a unique festive experience during Diwali, particularly because the festival coincides with Bandi Chhor Divas, an important Sikh celebration.
The Golden Temple is illuminated with beautiful lights, while the surrounding sarovar reflects its golden architecture. The spiritual atmosphere, prayers and community celebrations make this destination particularly special.
Visitors can also explore the city’s rich history, traditional Punjabi food and famous attractions.
Things to experience:
Visit the beautifully illuminated Golden Temple.
Experience the spiritual atmosphere of Bandi Chhor Divas.
Explore Jallianwala Bagh.
Visit the Wagah-Attari Border ceremony.
Enjoy authentic Amritsari kulcha, chole and local delicacies.
Best for: Families, cultural travellers and people interested in spirituality and history.
6. Kolkata, West Bengal: Experience the Beauty of Kali Puja
Kolkata celebrates Diwali with a distinctive cultural flavour. Unlike many other parts of India, where the festival is primarily associated with the worship of Goddess Lakshmi, Kali Puja is a major attraction in West Bengal.
During this period, the city is filled with beautifully decorated pandals, illuminated streets and festive markets.
Visitors can explore the city’s cultural heritage while experiencing its unique combination of religious traditions, art, food and celebrations.
Things to experience:
Visit beautifully decorated Kali Puja pandals.
Explore traditional markets and festive shopping areas.
Visit Victoria Memorial and Howrah Bridge.
Enjoy Bengali sweets such as rasgulla and sandesh.
Experience Kolkata’s local food and cultural attractions.
Best for: Culture enthusiasts, food lovers and travellers looking for a different festive experience.
7. Mumbai, Maharashtra: Experience Diwali in the City That Never Sleeps
Mumbai offers an energetic and glamorous Diwali experience. From beautifully decorated residential neighbourhoods to luxury hotels and shopping destinations, the entire city embraces the festive spirit.
The city is particularly attractive for travellers who enjoy shopping, nightlife, entertainment and modern celebrations.
You can spend your days exploring iconic attractions and your evenings enjoying festive dining experiences and illuminated city views.
Things to experience:
Visit Marine Drive and enjoy the city’s evening atmosphere.
Explore Colaba Causeway and famous shopping destinations.
Enjoy festive dining at luxury hotels and restaurants.
Visit the Gateway of India.
Explore Bandra and South Mumbai’s festive decorations.
Best for: Young travellers, couples, families and shopping enthusiasts.
8. Goa: Enjoy a Different Kind of Diwali Holiday
Goa is an excellent destination for travellers who want to combine festive celebrations with a relaxing beach holiday.
The state celebrates Diwali with traditional customs, including Narakasura effigy competitions and celebrations around Naraka Chaturdashi.
Beyond the festive activities, Goa offers beautiful beaches, Portuguese-influenced architecture, local markets and excellent dining experiences.
Things to experience:
Explore popular beaches such as Baga, Calangute and Palolem.
Experience traditional Narakasura celebrations.
Visit Old Goa’s historic churches and heritage sites.
Enjoy Goan cuisine and coastal dining.
Spend time exploring local markets and beachside cafés.
Best for: Couples, friends, families and beach lovers.
9. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand: A Peaceful Diwali in the Mountains
Not everyone wants a crowded city or a busy festive celebration. Some travellers prefer spending Diwali surrounded by nature, mountains and peaceful surroundings.
Rishikesh offers exactly that experience.
Situated along the banks of the River Ganga and surrounded by the Himalayan foothills, the destination is ideal for travellers looking to combine relaxation, spirituality and adventure.
The evening Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat is a particularly memorable experience.
Things to experience:
Attend the Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat.
Explore Ram Jhula and Lakshman Jhula surroundings.
Enjoy riverside cafés and scenic views.
Experience yoga and wellness retreats.
Explore nearby nature trails and adventure activities.
Best for: Solo travellers, couples, wellness enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
10. Jaisalmer, Rajasthan: A Festive Escape in the Golden Desert
For travellers looking for something truly different, Jaisalmer offers a wonderful combination of desert landscapes, traditional culture and royal Rajasthani hospitality.
Known as the Golden City, Jaisalmer is famous for its sandstone architecture, magnificent fort and desert experiences.
A Diwali holiday here can be a memorable combination of heritage exploration and desert adventure.
Things to experience:
Explore the magnificent Jaisalmer Fort.
Visit Patwon Ki Haveli and Gadisar Lake.
Enjoy a camel safari in the Sam Sand Dunes.
Experience a traditional Rajasthani cultural evening.
Stay at a desert camp and enjoy the starry night sky.
Best for: Couples, families, adventure lovers and cultural explorers.
Tips for Planning Your Diwali Holiday in 2026
Travelling during Diwali can be exciting, but the festive season is also one of the busiest travel periods in India. Proper planning can help you avoid unnecessary stress and enjoy your holiday comfortably.
Here are a few important things to consider:
1. Book Flights and Hotels Early
Demand for flights, trains and hotels generally increases during the festive season. Booking early can give you more options and better chances of finding suitable accommodation.
2. Check Local Festival Dates and Schedules
Some celebrations take place on different dates from the main Diwali festival. For example, Dev Deepawali in Varanasi takes place on Kartik Purnima, not on Diwali itself. Check official schedules before finalising your itinerary.
3. Plan Your Transportation
Popular destinations can experience heavy traffic during festive celebrations. Plan airport transfers, local transportation and sightseeing routes in advance.
4. Choose Accommodation Carefully
Consider staying near the main attractions if you want to participate in evening celebrations. However, if you prefer a quieter holiday, choose accommodation away from crowded areas.
5. Keep Your Itinerary Flexible
Festive events, weather conditions and local traffic can affect travel plans. Allow some flexibility in your schedule to enjoy the destination without rushing.
6. Travel Responsibly
Respect local customs, follow safety guidelines and avoid activities that disturb local communities or wildlife. Choose environmentally responsible celebrations wherever possible.
Make This Diwali a Journey to Remember with SKYHI Global Travels
Diwali is a celebration of happiness, new beginnings and togetherness. This year, instead of limiting your celebrations to one place, consider exploring the incredible destinations India has to offer.
Whether you want to witness the spiritual beauty of Varanasi, experience the royal charm of Rajasthan, enjoy the festive atmosphere of Amritsar or relax along the beaches of Goa, there is a destination for every kind of traveller.
At SkyHi Global Travels, we believe that every journey should be thoughtfully planned and memorable. From choosing the right destination to coordinating travel arrangements, our team aims to make your holiday experience smooth and enjoyable.
This Diwali, discover new places, create beautiful memories and celebrate the festive season in a way you will remember for years to come.
Planning a Diwali getaway in 2026? Get in touch with SKYHI Global Travels and let us help you plan your next memorable journey.
