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Diwali, the festival of lights, is one of the most celebrated and vibrant festivals in India. It’s a time when the entire country comes alive with dazzling decorations, colourful rangolis, and an infectious sense of joy and festivity. For those seeking to experience the essence of Diwali in its full splendour, India offers an array of breathtaking destinations that showcase cultural diversity and exuberance during this auspicious time. Here are the top 10 must-see Diwali vacation destinations across India.
According to the legend, Diwali marks the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and defeating the demon king Ravana. To celebrate his homecoming, the people of Ayodhya illuminated the city by lighting thousands of earthen lamps, decorating it with flowers and colors.
Every year, the city celebrates Diwali with great enthusiasm as it marks the day when Guru Hargobind Singh, the sixth Sikh guru, was released from prison along with 52 other kings by the Mughal emperor Jahangir in 1619. During this festival, the Golden Temple is illuminated with thousands of lights and candles, and a spectacular fireworks display is held over it.
Diwali is celebrated with great fervour and devotion in Varanasi, as it is believed that Lord Shiva performed the Tandava dance on this day. The highlight of Diwali in Varanasi is the Dev Deepawali or the festival of lights of the gods, which falls on the full moon night after Diwali.
Udaipur, also known as the city of lakes and palaces, is a popular destination for travellers during the Diwali festival. The palaces and havelis are illuminated with colourful lights that reflect on the calm waters of the lakes, adding to the beauty of the city.
The city organises competitions for the best-decorated markets, buildings, and houses, adding to the festive spirit. The most famous attraction of Diwali in Jaipur is the Nahargarh Fort, which offers a complete view of the city lit up like a jewel.
Goa celebrates Diwali to commemorate the destruction of demon Narakasura by Lord Krishna. Each year, a competition is held in every city and village of Goa to see who can make the biggest and nastiest demon effigy, which is later burnt down on Narakasura Chaturdashi, a day before the main day of Diwali.
Due to the increasing rate of pollution, the Delhi government has restricted the use of fireworks and firecrackers during the celebration. Despite this, the city is beautifully illuminated with different kinds of lights, from buildings to shops and markets, creating a festive atmosphere for visitors to enjoy and experience.
Diwali is celebrated for five days in Ahmedabad starting with Dhanteras, which is considered auspicious for buying valuable items. The second day is Naraka Chaturdashi, which marks the slaying of demon Narakasura by Lord Krishna. The third day is Diwali, celebrated on the night of Amavasya in the Hindu month of Kartik.
While the rest of India celebrates Diwali by worshipping Goddess Laxmi, the main day of Diwali is celebrated as Kali Puja in Kolkata and other parts of West Bengal. This festival is a remarkable and unique sight to witness. Maa Kali temples located in Kolkata, such as Kalighat, Belur Math, and Dakshineswar, attract a massive number of tourists and devotees during this day to offer their prayers and seek blessings from the goddess.
Madurai is the third largest city in Tamil Nadu. In terms of Diwali celebration, it is observed in the month of Aippasi, on the day of Naraka Chaturdashi, which is considered the second day of the five-day Diwali festival. It is interesting to know that people in South India celebrate this festival a day earlier than their counterparts in the North.
