Best Places to Visit in India During Diwali Holidays 2026

Diwali is one of the best times to plan a festive holiday in India. From the illuminated ghats of Ayodhya to the colourful markets of Jaipur and the golden glow of Amritsar's Golden Temple, different destinations celebrate the festival in their own unique ways.

Diwali 2026 falls on Sunday, November 8, making the surrounding period an opportunity for a short getaway or a longer family holiday. Travellers can choose spiritual destinations, heritage cities, beach escapes or places known for spectacular festive decorations.

If you are searching for the best places to visit in India during Diwali holidays 2026, here are eight destinations to consider, along with the best things to do and practical travel tips.

1. Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh – Experience the Festival of Lights

Ayodhya is one of India's most significant destinations for a spiritual Diwali trip. Associated with Lord Rama, the city attracts pilgrims and visitors who come to experience its temples, riverfront and festive atmosphere.

The city's annual Deepotsav celebrations are a major attraction, with rows of earthen lamps illuminating the Saryu riverfront and other areas. The exact programme and scale of the 2026 celebrations should be checked through official announcements before travelling.
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Best things to do in Ayodhya

• Visit Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir.

• Attend the evening aarti at Ram Ki Paidi.

• Explore Hanuman Garhi and other important temples.

• Experience the festive atmosphere along the Saryu riverfront.

• Explore local markets for traditional sweets and souvenirs.

Best for: Families, pilgrims and travellers interested in Indian culture and religious traditions.

Travel tip: Book accommodation well in advance and check temple entry arrangements, traffic restrictions and official event schedules before departure.

2. Jaipur, Rajasthan – Explore Markets Filled with Diwali Lights

Jaipur is a wonderful choice for travellers who want to combine Diwali celebrations with heritage sightseeing, shopping and Rajasthani food. During the festive season, markets and commercial streets often feature colourful decorations and lighting.

The Pink City's traditional bazaars are especially appealing for visitors looking for festive clothing, jewellery, handicrafts and gifts. You can spend the day exploring historic landmarks and enjoy the city's illuminated streets in the evening.

Best things to do in Jaipur

• Visit Hawa Mahal and the City Palace.

• Explore Amber Fort and its surrounding area.

• Shop for jewellery, textiles and handicrafts at Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar.

• Try dal baati churma, kachori and traditional Rajasthani sweets.

• Enjoy the festive atmosphere in the city's markets.

Best for: Families, couples, shopping enthusiasts and heritage lovers.

Travel tip: Popular markets can be crowded around Diwali. Visit earlier in the day for shopping and confirm local traffic arrangements before heading out at night.
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3. Amritsar, Punjab – See the Golden Temple Illuminated

Amritsar offers a memorable festive experience during Diwali, which coincides with the Sikh observance of Bandi Chhor Divas. The Golden Temple, also known as Sri Harmandir Sahib, becomes a major focal point for prayer and celebration.

The illuminated temple reflected in the surrounding sacred pool creates a beautiful sight. Visitors can also experience the spiritual atmosphere, listen to devotional hymns and visit the langar, the community kitchen that serves free meals.

Best things to do in Amritsar

• Visit the Golden Temple, particularly in the evening.

• Experience the spiritual atmosphere of Bandi Chhor Divas.

• Walk along Heritage Street.

• Visit Jallianwala Bagh.

• Enjoy Amritsari kulcha, chole and other Punjabi dishes.

Best for: Spiritual travellers, families, photographers and cultural explorers.

Travel tip: Follow the Golden Temple's visitor guidelines, dress respectfully and be prepared for large crowds during the festival.

4. Goa – Celebrate Diwali with Beachside Holidays

Goa is a good option if you want a Diwali holiday that combines local traditions, coastal scenery and relaxed beach time. The state has a distinctive Narakasura tradition before Diwali, when communities prepare and display effigies associated with the story of Narakasura's defeat.

Beyond the festivities, visitors can enjoy Goa's beaches, Portuguese-influenced architecture, seafood and lively markets. It is a flexible destination for couples, friends and families looking for a mix of culture and relaxation.

Best things to do in Goa

• Look for local Narakasura effigy displays and competitions.

• Relax at beaches such as Colva, Benaulim or Candolim.

• Explore Fontainhas in Panaji.

• Visit historic churches and local markets.

• Sample Goan cuisine and regional sweets.

Best for: Beach lovers, couples, groups of friends and relaxed holidaymakers.

Travel tip: Diwali and the approaching Christmas season can be busy travel periods. Compare accommodation options early and check local event schedules before planning your evenings.

5. Kolkata, West Bengal – Experience Kali Puja and Festive Decorations

Kolkata offers a different cultural experience during Diwali through Kali Puja, which is observed on the same night in many parts of the city. Temples, neighbourhoods and pandals organise devotional celebrations, with decorative lighting and artistic displays.

For travellers interested in Bengal's culture, this is an opportunity to experience local traditions beyond the usual Diwali celebrations.

Best things to do in Kolkata

• Visit Kalighat Temple, subject to current visitor arrangements.

• Explore Kali Puja pandals announced for the festival.

• Walk through decorated neighbourhoods and markets.

• Visit Victoria Memorial and the Indian Museum during their operating hours.

• Try Bengali sweets such as sandesh and rasgulla.

Best for: Culture lovers, photographers and travellers interested in regional festivals.

Travel tip: Specific pandal locations and timings vary each year. Check local announcements and plan your route around traffic and crowd restrictions.

6. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh – Enjoy Diwali Along the Ganges

Varanasi is an excellent destination for travellers looking for a spiritual Diwali holiday. The city's ancient temples, narrow lanes and riverfront ghats create a distinctive atmosphere during the festive season.

Visitors can attend the evening Ganga Aarti, explore the old city and visit important temples. If you want to see Varanasi's famous Dev Deepawali celebrations, consider extending your trip beyond Diwali itself.

Important date difference: Diwali falls on November 8 in 2026, while Dev Deepawali is expected on November 24, on Kartik Purnima. They are separate occasions, so plan your trip around the celebration you want to experience.

Best things to do in Varanasi

• Attend the evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat.

• Take a boat ride on the Ganges with a reputable operator.

• Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple.

• Explore Assi Ghat and the old city's lanes.

• Extend your stay for Dev Deepawali if the later festival interests you.

Best for: Spiritual travellers, photographers and culture enthusiasts.

Travel tip: Riverfront areas can become extremely crowded during major festivals. Follow local safety guidance and book accommodation close to the areas you plan to visit.

7. Mysuru, Karnataka – Enjoy Palace Views and South Indian Culture

Mysuru is a convenient choice for travellers in South India who want a festive getaway without travelling across the country. Known for Mysore Palace, royal heritage and local cuisine, the city offers plenty to explore during a short holiday.

The palace is illuminated on designated days and special occasions. However, visitors should confirm the official illumination schedule for November 2026 rather than assume the full lighting display will take place on Diwali night.

Best things to do in Mysuru

• Visit Mysore Palace and check its current illumination schedule.

• Explore Chamundi Hills and Chamundeshwari Temple.

• Spend time at Devaraja Market.

• Visit Brindavan Gardens if time allows.

• Try Mysore masala dosa, Mysore pak and local South Indian meals.

Best for: Families, couples and travellers looking for a short cultural getaway from Bengaluru.

Travel tip: Mysuru can work well for a two-day trip. Check train and road travel times before choosing your departure and return dates.

8. Udaipur, Rajasthan – Enjoy a Romantic Festive Getaway

Udaipur is known for its lakes, palaces, heritage hotels and scenic waterfronts. During the festive season, it offers an appealing setting for couples and travellers who want to combine sightseeing with a relaxing holiday.

Unlike destinations centred on a specific major Diwali event, Udaipur is best chosen for its heritage atmosphere, lakeside views, restaurants and cultural experiences. Check for any special Diwali programmes before building your itinerary around an event.

Best things to do in Udaipur

• Explore City Palace.

• Take a boat ride on Lake Pichola, subject to operating conditions.

• Visit Jagdish Temple.

• Walk around the old city and its markets.

• Enjoy a traditional Rajasthani meal with views of the lake.

Best for: Couples, families, photographers and heritage lovers.

Travel tip: Heritage hotels and lakeside accommodation can be popular during festive periods. Compare locations and book early if you want a room with lake views.

Quick comparison of the best places to visit in India during Diwali 2026

These are suggested trip lengths, not confirmed event schedules.

How to plan a Diwali holiday in India in 2026

A little planning can help you enjoy the festival without spending too much time dealing with transport and crowds.

• Book early: Diwali is a popular domestic travel period. Compare flight, train and hotel options as soon as your dates are confirmed.

• Choose the right destination: Pick Ayodhya or Amritsar for a spiritual trip, Jaipur or Udaipur for heritage, or Goa for beaches.

• Check official event dates: Deepotsav, Kali Puja programmes and other special celebrations may have separate schedules and entry arrangements.

• Plan local transport: Roads around temples, markets and popular festival venues can be crowded.

• Keep your itinerary flexible: Avoid scheduling too many attractions on Diwali night itself.

• Check local rules: Fireworks, traffic restrictions, public access and photography policies may vary by location.

Final thoughts

Diwali holidays are a great opportunity to explore India's regional traditions and discover destinations beyond your usual travel routine. From Ayodhya's spiritual atmosphere and Amritsar's illuminated Golden Temple to Goa's beaches and Udaipur's lakeside heritage, each destination offers a different kind of festive break.

Choose a destination based on your travel time, budget and preferred experience. Most importantly, confirm local event schedules before booking non-refundable travel arrangements.