Best Places to Experience a Traditional Diwali Feel in India in 2026!

What is Diwali?	It is the biggest annual festival which is popularly known as Festival of lights
When do we celebrate Diwali?	October or November which depends on the Hindu Lunar Calendar. The main night falls on the new moon that is Amavasya, Kartik month
What is the duration of Diwali?	5 days from Dhanteras, which is the celebration of wealth and health - Bhai Dooj - celebration of the sibling bond
Which are the best cities to celebrate Diwali?	Jaipur, Varanasi, Delhi, Mumbai and Goa
Who is it for?	This is a public celebration
You must know!	All the accommodations get booked and you must confirm your flights and hotels at least 3 months in advance.

Everything you must know about Diwali before attending it!

Diwali also known as Deepawali or Deepoutsav is an extensively celebrated Hindu festival. This popular story of Diwali is connected to the returning of Lord Rama to his own Kingdom, Ayodhya after the exile of 14 years. As per the tale, people light up their home, spread happiness and distribute sweets celebrating the Lord`s returning to home. 

This beautiful festival is also connected to the worship of Lakshmi, Goddess of wealth and prosperity. It is believed that Maa Lakshmi visits your home on the night of Diwali as so every corner of the house is cleaned properly to welcome her. So, this is how traditional Diwali celebrations in India take place. If you wish to understand in a better way, you can keep reading. 

The Five Days of the Diwali Festival in India!

Dhanteras	This day is dedicated to wealth and health. On this day, families clean their homes, light up the lamps, and buy new utensils, gold as a symbol of good fortune.
Naraka Chaturdashi (Choti Diwali)	This marks the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura.
Lakshmi Puja	This is one of the main events. The entire country lights up with diyas and candles.
Govardhan Puja	This honours Lord Krishna’s protection of his community and is often signified with huge communal meals which are shared between neighbours and extended family
Bhai Dooj	This is a day when the sibling bond is celebrated.

You can keep reading this blog if you wish to find out the list of best places to celebrate Diwali in India. You can check out the details here. 

Where should you celebrate Diwali in India?

To be honest, every city, every state follows a different Diwali ritual in India. However, you can check out a few of the best places to experience Diwali in India, you can check out the details here. 

1. Jaipur 

The beautiful Pink City is extremely popular for its sandstone buildings, beautiful architecture, amusing backdrop and much more. Indeed, this is one of the most photographed destinations during Diwali. The charming Johari Bazaar, Bapu Bazaar and MI road are delicately decorated . You can also go to Nahargarh Fort just after the sunset for an extensive view of the city. If you wish to seek a calm and tranquil vibe, you can visit any of the lakes including Man Sagar Lake, or Maota Lake. 

Remember: The bazaars of Jaipur during Diwali mela get too crowded and so you must keep your belongings close and try not to flash expensive devices especially in Johari and Bapu Bazaar. 

2. Udaipur 

This city is beyond grand palaces and alluring lakes. Get ready to witness the amusing Diwali celebrations. The city glows with sky lamps and fireworks which assures a vibe of tranquility. You can enjoy the beauty of charming diwali on the banks of Lake Pichola. This beautiful destination is a home to vibrant and attractive Udaipur Lantern festival. During this festival, you can meet many local artists, delicious snacks, and ethereal views. 

Remember: If you have time you can visit Nathadwara which is a beautiful town and is a home to many temples dedicated to Lord Krishna. 

3. Delhi 

One of the famous Diwali celebrations in India takes place here. You can attend the popular Diwali Mela at Dilli Haat which lets you witness the beauty of handicrafts, food stalls, and other cultural performances. You can also visit the popular Chandni Chowk in Old Delhi which is full of lights. Get to witness the panoramic views of India Gate as it illuminates for the occasion. 

Remember: No doubt, Delhi is one of the best Diwali destinations in India but you must know that the air quality of Delhi is not good majorly due to burning of crackers and crop burning. Now, if you have respiratory issues, make sure you carry masks. 

4. Varanasi 

If you wish to feel the spiritual vibes, you can spend diwali on the ghats of river Ganges. Get to spend the beautiful evening by enjoying the seraphic Ganga Aarti Ceremony which is a devotional ritual. So, undoubtedly, Varanasi has one of the most famous Diwali celebrations in India. 

Remember:  In case, your dates allow, you can plan to stay an extra two weeks for Dev Deepawali which is a separate festival held just 15 days after Diwali on the full moon of Kartik. 

5. Mumbai 

If you are looking for any loud and the best places to celebrate Diwali in India, choose Mumbai. You can combine your diwali with city sightseeing and enjoy delicious food. The families gather in iconic and popular sites. Marine drive is the most crowded one and you can blend your festival energy with sightseeing. 

Remember: If you have time, please visit Juhu beach as here you would get to witness Mumbai’s biggest Diwali gathering. 

Hopefully, while reading this blog you will get a proper list of the best places to celebrate diwali in India. If this is your first time here, make sure you get to explore popular Diwali destinations in India. Plan an amazing itinerary and try to cover all the famous spots but the above-given ones are non-negotiable. 

FAQs 

When is Diwali in India, 2026?

This year it is on November 8th, 2026

What are the few best places to celebrate diwali in India?

Varanasi, Jaipur, Udaipur, Amritsar and Ayodhya. 

Where does Dev Deepawali take place?

Dev Deepawali is celebrated in Varanasi. 

Can I plan a trip to Goa on Diwali?

If you are looking for a relaxing Diwali on beach time and follow local traditions, you can book your tickets for Diwali. 

Can I try street food in Diwali Mela?

Yes, of course! You can find many delicious options here so choose accordingly.