“Discover the 5 best places to celebrate Diwali in India — from Ayodhya’s glowing ghats to Jaipur’s royal lights and Amritsar’s divine beauty.
Diwali 2025 is almost here — and across India, the festival of lights turns every street, home, and heart into a glowing spectacle of joy and devotion. But while most of us celebrate surrounded by family and sweets, there are a few places where Diwali becomes an unforgettable experience — larger than life, deeply spiritual, and visually breathtaking.
From riverbanks shimmering with a million diyas to royal cities bathed in gold, here are the top 5 destinations in India to witness Diwali in its most spectacular form.
🌺 1. Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh – The Heart of Diwali
Known as Lord Ram’s birthplace, Ayodhya is where Diwali finds its truest meaning. Every year, the city sets a world record by lighting over a million diyas along the Saryu River, creating a sight that feels straight out of mythology.
Cultural performances, chants, and fireworks fill the air as devotees celebrate Ram’s return to Ayodhya. It’s not just a festival here — it’s an emotion that engulfs the entire city.
Don’t miss: The evening aarti at the ghats, where devotion meets divine illumination.
🕉️ 2. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh – Where the Ganga Glows
If Ayodhya is divine, Varanasi is otherworldly. During Dev Deepawali, celebrated a few days after Diwali, the ghats of the Ganga glow with over a million diyas — each flame symbolizing liberation and light.
The mesmerizing Ganga Aarti, grand fireworks, and the serene chants create a spiritual aura unlike anywhere else in India.
Don’t miss: A boat ride on the Ganges at sunset — the view of the illuminated ghats will stay with you forever.
🎆 3. Jaipur, Rajasthan – The Royal City of Lights
When it comes to grandeur, Jaipur truly knows how to celebrate Diwali in royal style. The Pink City transforms into a glittering wonderland as markets, palaces, and forts compete in an annual lighting competition.
Walk through Johari Bazaar or Bapu Bazaar, and you’ll see streets that look like a scene from a fairy tale — with vibrant decor, festive shopping, and endless sweets.
Don’t miss: A drive through the old city after dark — every corner sparkles like a royal chandelier.
🕯️ 4. Amritsar, Punjab – Diwali at the Golden Temple
In Amritsar, Diwali coincides with Bandi Chhor Divas, marking Guru Hargobind Ji’s return from imprisonment — and the celebrations are soul-stirring.
The Golden Temple glows with thousands of lamps reflecting on the holy sarovar, while fireworks light up the sky and hymns fill the air. The sense of peace and devotion here is unmatched anywhere else.
Don’t miss: The illuminated view of the Golden Temple from across the water — it’s pure magic.
🌄 5. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand – A Soulful Diwali by the Ganga
If you’re looking for a more spiritual and serene Diwali experience, Rishikesh is the place to be. The Triveni Ghat Ganga Aarti during Diwali is an ethereal moment — the riverbanks come alive with glowing diyas, temple bells, and the chants of monks.
Surrounded by the Himalayas, the energy here feels peaceful, grounding, and divine — perfect for those who seek meaning beyond celebration.
Don’t miss: Floating a diya in the Ganga — a moment of reflection and gratitude.
✨ Experience the Festival Beyond Fireworks
Diwali isn’t just a festival — it’s a journey through faith, light, and togetherness. Whether you choose the grandeur of Jaipur, the divinity of Ayodhya, or the serenity of Rishikesh, each destination offers a unique way to experience India’s brightest celebration.
So this year, step out, travel, and witness the true spirit of Diwali — India’s festival of light and life.
