Best Places to Visit in India During Diwali Holidays (Nov 2025)
Diwali — the Festival of Lights — is one of the most vibrant times to explore India. Whether you're looking to witness grand celebrations, enjoy spiritual peace, or escape to serene landscapes, November 2025 offers incredible travel opportunities.
Here are the best places to visit during the Diwali holidays in India, with something for every kind of traveler.
✨ 1. Varanasi – For Spiritual Light & Devotion
Why Go:
Varanasi during Diwali, especially on Dev Deepawali, is pure magic. The Ganga ghats come alive with thousands of oil lamps, chanting, and fireworks.
Top Experiences:
- Evening Ganga Aarti
- Boat ride on the Ganges
- Dev Deepawali (on Kartik Purnima — Nov 13, 2025)
Best For: Culture & spirituality seekers
🎆 2. Jaipur – A Royal Diwali Experience
Why Go:
Rajasthan’s capital turns into a glowing city of lights. Markets, palaces, and even homes are decorated extravagantly.
Top Experiences:
- Nahargarh Fort night view
- Diwali shopping at Johari & Bapu Bazaar
- City Palace Diwali decor
Best For: Couples, photographers, luxury travelers
🏞️ 3. Rishikesh – Peaceful Getaway with Festival Charm
Why Go:
If you want a calm Diwali with a spiritual touch, Rishikesh is ideal. Yoga, Ganga Aarti, and mountain vibes await.
Top Experiences:
- Sunset at Triveni Ghat
- Diwali fire rituals & music at ashrams
- Yoga and spa retreats
Best For: Solo travelers, wellness seekers
🌊 4. Goa – Beach Parties & Festive Vibes
Why Go:
Celebrate Diwali with sand between your toes. Goa mixes Indian tradition with beachside fun — firecrackers by the sea are unforgettable.
Top Experiences:
- Night beach Diwali parties
- Casino cruises
- Local village Diwali decor & parades
Best For: Young travelers, groups, party lovers
🏔️ 5. Manali – Escape to the Hills
Why Go:
Looking for a cool Diwali? Manali offers early winter chills, pine-scented air, and bonfire-lit evenings.
Top Experiences:
- Old Manali cafés
- Solang Valley adventure sports
- Bonfires in apple orchards
Best For: Families, honeymooners, nature lovers
🏯 6. Amritsar – Diwali + Bandi Chhor Divas at Golden Temple
Why Go:
Amritsar celebrates Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas together — a spiritually rich Sikh festival with lights, langar, and devotion.
Top Experiences:
- Golden Temple at night
- Fireworks over the holy sarovar
- Local sweets & langar meals
Best For: Heritage lovers, religious tourism
🏜️ 7. Udaipur – Romantic Diwali on the Lakes
Why Go:
Udaipur's lakeside palaces and reflections make Diwali truly royal and romantic.
Top Experiences:
- Lake Pichola boat rides
- Diwali view from Karni Mata temple
- Traditional light & dance shows
Best For: Couples, photographers
🪵 8. Hampi – History Meets Festivity
Why Go:
Imagine celebrating Diwali among the ruins of an ancient empire. Hampi is a UNESCO gem with rustic charm.
Top Experiences:
- Light a diya near stone temples
- Sunset from Hemakuta Hill
- Explore Virupaksha Temple during festivities
Best For: Offbeat explorers, solo backpackers
🌿 9. Coorg – A Green & Peaceful Diwali
Why Go:
For those seeking a noise-free Diwali, Coorg offers coffee plantations, misty mornings, and forest escapes.
Top Experiences:
- Stay in a heritage homestay
- Plantation walks
- Silent Diwali surrounded by nature
Best For: Eco-conscious travelers, writers, families
🧳 Travel Tips for Diwali Trips
- Book early: Flights & hotels sell out quickly
- Dress traditionally to enjoy local vibes
- Respect local customs — especially at temples
- Keep safety in mind around fireworks
- Carry light woolens for hill stations
🎇 Final Word
Whether you want to dive into India’s festive heart or escape the city chaos, Diwali in November 2025 is the perfect time to travel. Choose your vibe — spiritual, scenic, or celebratory — and experience India at its most illuminated!
