Deepawali, also known as Diwali, is one of the most widely celebrated festivals in India. It usually falls in October or November, depending on the Hindu lunar calendar. The festival marks the victory of light over darkness and good over evil.
Homes glow with diyas, temples stay open late, markets fill with sweets, and families gather for prayers and fireworks. But the atmosphere changes from city to city. Some places focus on rituals. Others turn into large public celebrations.
Here are some of the best places in India where Diwali feels especially memorable.
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Varanasi treats Diwali as a deeply spiritual occasion. The ghats along the Ganges fill with oil lamps, and the river reflects thousands of small flames. The evening Ganga Aarti during this time feels more intense than usual.
Dev Deepawali, celebrated about 15 days after Diwali, is equally significant. The entire riverfront lights up in a way that feels organized yet traditional.
Best time: October–November (during Diwali week)
Best for: Ritual-focused celebration
Nearest airport: Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport
Nearest railway station: Varanasi Junction
Jaipur, Rajasthan
Jaipur becomes visually striking during Diwali. Markets like Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar compete in decorative lighting. The old city glows in coordinated themes, and shopkeepers decorate their storefronts carefully.
The celebration here feels festive but structured. It suits travelers who want lights, shopping, and a balanced crowd.
Best time: October–November
Best for: Decorative lighting and festive markets
Nearest airport: Jaipur International Airport
Nearest railway station: Jaipur Junction
Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh
Ayodhya holds special importance during Diwali. The city is linked to Lord Ram’s return after exile, which forms the core story behind the festival. Large-scale diya lighting events take place along the Sarayu River.
The scale of lamps lit here has grown significantly in recent years. Planning ahead is important due to heavy footfall.
Best time: October–November
Best for: Religious and large-scale diya events
Nearest airport: Maharishi Valmiki International Airport, Ayodhya
Nearest railway station: Ayodhya Dham Junction
Amritsar, Punjab
Diwali in Amritsar coincides with Bandi Chhor Divas, an important Sikh occasion. The Golden Temple lights up beautifully, and fireworks reflect in the Sarovar at night.
The celebration feels peaceful despite the crowd. Many visitors sit quietly near the temple complex and observe the lights.
Best time: October–November
Best for: Spiritual atmosphere with illuminated temple views
Nearest airport: Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport
Nearest railway station: Amritsar Junction
Kolkata, West Bengal
In Kolkata, Diwali aligns with Kali Puja. The city sets up detailed pandals dedicated to Goddess Kali. Fireworks and night-long worship shape the mood here.
The celebration feels energetic and slightly different from North Indian traditions, but equally meaningful.
Best time: October–November
Best for: Kali Puja and cultural celebrations
Nearest airport: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport
Nearest railway station: Howrah Junction
Mumbai, Maharashtra
Mumbai’s Diwali mixes family traditions with modern city life. Residential societies organize small gatherings, and Marine Drive often sees informal fireworks displays.
For travelers already in the city, Diwali adds a festive layer without disrupting plans too much.
Best time: October–November
Best for: Urban celebration with family gatherings
Nearest airport: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport
Nearest railway station: Mumbai Central
Udaipur, Rajasthan
Udaipur’s lakes and palaces create a different setting for Diwali. Many heritage hotels host traditional Lakshmi Puja ceremonies. The reflections of lights on Lake Pichola add depth to the atmosphere.
It feels calmer compared to Jaipur but still festive.
Best time: October–November
Best for: Palace backdrop and relaxed celebration
Nearest airport: Maharana Pratap Airport, Udaipur
Nearest railway station: Udaipur City Railway Station
Delhi
Delhi celebrates Diwali at scale. Markets like Chandni Chowk and Lajpat Nagar remain busy days before the festival. Homes and public buildings decorate extensively.
Firecracker regulations have changed over the years due to pollution concerns, so celebrations may vary. Morning temple visits and evening family gatherings remain central.
Best time: October–November
Best for: Large city celebration and shopping
Nearest airport: Indira Gandhi International Airport
Nearest railway station: New Delhi Railway Station
When Does Diwali Usually Fall?
Diwali takes place on the new moon night (Amavasya) of the Hindu month of Kartik. This usually means late October or early November. The main celebration lasts one night, but preparations and related rituals continue for several days.
A Few Practical Tips
- Book travel and hotels well in advance.
- Expect traffic restrictions in major cities.
- Start temple visits early in the morning to avoid long queues.
- Follow local guidelines regarding fireworks.
Diwali feels different depending on where you celebrate it. Some cities focus on ritual depth. Others highlight decoration and public energy. Choosing the right place depends on whether you prefer temple ceremonies, riverfront lamps, or festive city lights.
