Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is one of the most celebrated and vibrant festivals in India. Every year, people from all corners of the world visit India to witness the grandeur of Diwali celebrations, which span five days. This includes Dhanteras, the first day of the festival, and culminates with the stunning displays of lights and fireworks. The Diwali Festival 2024 promises to be an even more spectacular event, with various cities in India pulling out all the stops to make it memorable. Here’s a list of the top 10 places where you can immerse yourself in the grand Diwali celebrations this year.
1. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Varanasi’s Diwali celebrations are nothing short of enchanting. Known for its sacred Ganga Aarti, this city takes the festival to new heights with mesmerizing oil lamps lighting up the ghats, creating a serene yet vibrant ambiance. On Dhanteras, locals start the celebrations by cleaning and decorating their homes, and the entire city is adorned with lights. The culminating event, Dev Deepawali, draws thousands to witness the riverfront come alive with diyas, music, and fireworks.
2. Jaipur, Rajasthan
Jaipur, the Pink City, celebrates Diwali with opulence and color. The city’s palaces, forts, and markets are decked out in lights and floral decorations. Johari Bazaar, in particular, is famous for its illuminated display, and the locals and tourists alike come together to shop for Diwali essentials. During the 5 Days of Diwali Festival 2024, Jaipur hosts fairs, cultural performances, and feasts that make the city a must-visit during Diwali.
3. Amritsar, Punjab
In Amritsar, Diwali coincides with Bandi Chhor Divas, a Sikh festival that celebrates freedom and light. The Golden Temple shines brilliantly with thousands of diyas and lights, and the shimmering reflection on the temple’s lake is a sight to behold. People gather around the temple to enjoy fireworks, which add to the joyous atmosphere. If you want a unique cultural perspective on Diwali, Amritsar offers an experience like no other.
4. Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh
Ayodhya, believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama, celebrates Diwali with immense reverence and grandeur. Each year, the city attempts to set a record for the most oil lamps lit along the banks of the Sarayu River. The Diwali Festival 2024 will see Ayodhya draped in lights, cultural dances, music, and fireworks as people pay homage to the homecoming of Lord Rama. It’s a magical experience for those wanting a deep connection to the festival’s roots.
5. Udaipur, Rajasthan
Known for its lakes and palaces, Udaipur is a fantastic destination to celebrate Diwali. The city’s royal families participate in the festivities, which include grand feasts, palace illuminations, and folk performances. The Lake Pichola area is adorned with lights, and fireworks illuminate the night sky. Udaipur’s Diwali celebration offers a royal, almost cinematic, Diwali experience, making it one of the best places to witness the festival in 2024.
6. Kolkata, West Bengal
While Kolkata is known for Durga Puja, Diwali celebrations are equally impressive. Here, the focus is on Kali Puja, and the city lights up with candles, diyas, and fairy lights. The streets are filled with people shopping and celebrating, and pandals dedicated to Goddess Kali are set up throughout the city. Diwali in Kolkata provides a unique cultural twist, making it one of the most memorable places to celebrate Diwali Festival 2024.
7. Mumbai, Maharashtra
Mumbai’s energy and excitement during Diwali are palpable. Marine Drive, known as the Queen’s Necklace, lights up beautifully, offering a stunning view of the cityscape under the glow of fireworks. Popular temples, such as the Mumbadevi Temple, host special prayers, and locals decorate their homes with rangoli and diyas. Dhanteras is particularly special in Mumbai, as it’s a time for auspicious purchases of gold and silver, filling the markets with festive cheer.
8. Delhi
As the capital city, Delhi’s Diwali celebrations are grand and widespread. Iconic markets like Chandni Chowk and Connaught Place are adorned with lights, and there’s no shortage of events, parties, and fairs during the five days. Temples and gurudwaras host special Diwali prayers, and the city’s skyline lights up with fireworks. Delhi is an ideal destination if you want to experience Diwali celebrations across different neighborhoods and cultural hubs.
9. Mysore, Karnataka
Mysore is famous for its grand Dussehra celebrations, but Diwali follows closely behind in terms of splendor. The majestic Mysore Palace is illuminated with thousands of lights, creating a fairy-tale setting. Locals celebrate with traditional dances, food, and fireworks. Dhanteras is celebrated with enthusiasm, and the streets and homes of Mysore are decorated in a traditional South Indian style, making it a unique place to witness the festival.
10. Ahmedabad, Gujarat
Ahmedabad’s Diwali is marked by beautiful displays of lights, fireworks, and rangoli. The city’s Pols (historic neighborhoods) are adorned with lanterns and oil lamps, and people come together to celebrate with traditional sweets and rituals. During the 5 Days of Diwali Festival 2024, the city also celebrates the Gujarati New Year, making it an extended celebration filled with joy, shopping, and festivities.
What to Expect from Diwali Festival 2024
The Diwali Festival 2024 promises to be a grand event, especially with cities enhancing their celebrations post-pandemic. Starting with Dhanteras, the day for wealth and prosperity, people begin the five days of Diwali by buying gold, silver, and household items. The following days include Choti Diwali or Naraka Chaturdashi, Badi Diwali or the main festival day, Govardhan Puja, and end with Bhai Dooj, which celebrates sibling love. Each of these days holds unique significance, contributing to the festival’s deep cultural and spiritual richness.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking for a traditional celebration, a vibrant cityscape, or a unique cultural experience, these ten cities in India offer something special for Diwali. From the spiritual ghats of Varanasi to the royal palaces of Udaipur, each destination lights up in its own way, reflecting the diversity of Diwali celebrations across the country. If you’re planning to visit India for Diwali Festival 2024, make sure to book early, as these destinations are popular among locals and tourists alike. Experience the joy, spirituality, and lights of Diwali and create unforgettable memories in India!
