India shines with lights, sweet smells, and joyful celebrations during Diwali. Just before the bright fireworks and sounds begin, there’s a calm moment. Imagine standing on a quiet street, smelling ghee in the air, and seeing the soft glow of the first diya — a peaceful start before the festival comes alive. Diwali brings people together with light, warmth, and happiness. For travelers, it’s a wonderful time to experience India’s rich culture, as every state celebrates in its own special way. Yet, the heart of Diwali is always the same — light overcoming darkness.
Begin your journey in the north, where the chill of autumn adds a crisp edge to vibrant festivities. Experience the grand temple rituals in Varanasi and the bustling markets of Delhi. As you travel westward, Rajasthan’s illuminated palaces and Gujarat’s unique traditions await. Heading south, enjoy early morning oil baths in Tamil Nadu and coastline celebrations in Maharashtra and Goa. Finally, reach the northeast, where devotion meets artistic expression in West Bengal and the hills of Sikkim echo with joy. Each region presents distinct delicacies, dazzling lights, and ancient traditions, making every experience a story of its own.
Northern India: Royal Lights and Sacred Rituals
Uttar Pradesh – The Divine Glow of Varanasi and Ayodhya
Varanasi’s ghats along the Ganga glow with thousands of diyas during Dev Deepawali, creating a sight where the river appears to mirror the stars above. In Ayodhya, Lord Rama’s hometown, millions of lamps are lit in celebration of his homecoming, earning recognition in the Guinness World Records. Throughout the city, oil lamps and marigolds embellish streets, temples, and homes.
Must Try: Malaiyo, petha, jalebi, and kachori sabzi.
Delhi – A City Lit with Celebration
The capital city combines timeless traditions with modern celebrations. Homes shine with decorative lights, and markets such as Chandni Chowk and Lajpat Nagar bustle with shoppers seeking festive items. Fireworks light up the sky, and Diwali gatherings welcome a fusion of cuisine and Bollywood music.
Must-Try: Moti Choor Ladoo, Chaat, and Shahi Paneer.
Punjab – Golden Lights of Amritsar
In Amritsar, the Golden Temple glows with diyas reflecting in the holy waters. Diwali coincides with Bandi Chhor Divas, marking Guru Hargobind Sahib’s release from captivity. Fireworks, kirtans, and langar meals fill the day with joy and devotion.
Must Try: Makki di roti, sarson da saag, and pinni.
Himachal Pradesh – Hills of Harmony
In the serene hill towns of Manali, Shimla, and Kullu, families decorate their homes with marigolds and diyas. Local temples host special aartis and villagers exchange sweets made of jaggery and nuts.
Must-Try: Sidu (steamed bread), Babru, and Mittha.
Uttarakhand – Spiritual Diwali in the Himalayas
In Rishikesh and Haridwar, Diwali is celebrated with Ganga Aarti by the riverbanks. The flickering lamps against the backdrop of the Himalayas make it a serene spectacle.
Must Try: Aloo ke gutke, bal mithai, and singodi.
Western India: Grandeur, Colour, and Prosperity
Rajasthan – The Royal Festival of Lights
In Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jaisalmer, palaces, forts, and marketplaces radiate golden lights. The local celebrations include fireworks, folk performances, and Rajasthani cuisine. Jaipur’s annual illumination contest transforms the city into a spectacular display. The tradition of illuminating these historical venues dates back to the grandeur of the Rajput clans, where royal durbars were lit up as a sign of prosperity and power. Visitors today glimpse echoes of this regal past, as Diwali’s lights dance off opulent facades, creating a journey through history alongside the vibrant festivities.
Must Try: Dal Baati Churma, Ghewar, and Mawa Kachori.
Gujarat – New Beginnings and Traditions
For Gujaratis, Diwali also marks the beginning of the New Year. Homes are decorated with rangolis, torans, and clay lamps. Businesses close their ledgers and worship Goddess Lakshmi for prosperity. Cities like Ahmedabad and Vadodara host night-long celebrations.
Must Try: Fafda Jalebi, Mohanthal, and Khandvi.
Maharashtra – Festive Joy and Family Feasts
In Mumbai, Diwali blends glitz with tradition. Skyscrapers shine with lights, and families start preparing snacks days ahead. The festival begins with Vasu Baras, followed by Narak Chaturdashi, Lakshmi Puja, and Bhaubeej.
Must Try: Shankarpali, Karanji, Chivda, and Besan Ladoo.
Goa – The Burning of Narakasura
Goa’s Diwali is vibrant, as locals create and burn large effigies of the demon Narakasura, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. Beaches and churches are illuminated, and markets offer lanterns and sweets.
Must Try: Neureos, Bebinca, and Doce.
Eastern India: Devotion and Artistic Expression
West Bengal – The Fierce Grace of Kali Puja
In Kolkata, Diwali coincides with Kali Puja. Temples are decorated with flowers, oil lamps, and incense, and devotees gather to worship Goddess Kali. Artistic displays, festive lighting, and sweets fill the city with energy.
Must Try: Rasgulla, Sandesh, and Chomchom.
Odisha – Remembering the Ancestors
In Odisha, Diwali is known as Badabadua Daka, where families light lamps to invite the blessings of their ancestors. Temples like Puri Jagannath glow beautifully, and the coastlines light up with diyas.
Must Try: Chhena Poda and Pitha.
Bihar and Jharkhand – Homecoming and Harvest
In Bihar, people worship Goddess Lakshmi and soon after celebrate Chhath Puja. Homes are lit with diyas, and sweets are shared with family and neighbours.
Must Try: Thekua, Anarsa, and Tilkut.
Sikkim – Diwali in the Himalayas
In Gangtok and nearby villages, Hindus celebrate Diwali with diyas and sweets, while Buddhist monasteries participate in their own autumn festivals, creating a fusion of lights and prayers.
Must Try: Sel Roti, Phagshapa, and Momos.
Turning to the south, Diwali here radiates with light, tradition, and purity.
In Tamil Nadu, Diwali starts early in the morning with oil baths before sunrise, symbolizing purification. Firecrackers, new clothes, and temple visits mark the day.
Must-Try: Adhirasam, Murukku, and Mysore Pak.
Karnataka – The Victory of Lord Krishna
Diwali in Karnataka honors Lord Krishna’s victory over Narakasura. Homes are decorated with flowers and lamps, as families worship Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Balaji. In Mysuru and Hampi, grand processions and palace illuminations take place.
Must Try: Obbattu (Holige), Payasa, and Kodubale.
Kerala – A Subtle Yet Sacred Diwali
Kerala’s Diwali is quieter but spiritually significant. Families light diyas and offer prayers to Goddess Lakshmi. Temples hold special pujas, and fireworks mark the end of the evening.
Must Try: Unniyappam, Ela Ada, and Pazham Pori.
Andhra Pradesh & Telangana – Lights, Fireworks, and Feasts
Cities like Hyderabad and Vijayawada light up with fireworks and festive bazaars. Families exchange sweets, and homes glow with diyas arranged in intricate patterns.
Must Try: Ariselu, Gavvalu, and Pootharekulu.
North-Eastern India: Lights, Community, and Nature
Assam – Lamps and Local Festivities
In Assam, Diwali coincides with the worship of Goddess Lakshmi. Oil lamps adorn homes and courtyards, while communities come together for shared feasts.
Must Try: Pitha, Laru, and Payokh.
Nagaland, Manipur & Mizoram – Cultural Harmony
These states, with smaller Hindu populations, still see urban Diwali celebrations with lights, sweets, and fireworks, reflecting India’s inclusivity and unity.
Must Try: Sticky rice sweets and local tribal delicacies.
Tripura & Meghalaya – Fusion of Faiths
In Tripura, temples like Tripureswari Mandir host grand Lakshmi Puja, while in Meghalaya, mixed communities celebrate with lamps and festive markets.
Must-Try: Pukhlein, Sakin Gata, and Rice Cakes.
The Flavours of Diwali Across India
Food is at the heart of Diwali. Each region has its own festive treats, often shared with neighbors and travelers alike.
- North India: Gulab Jamun, Besan Ladoo, Namak Pare
- West India: Chivda, Shakarpara, Mohanthal
- South India: Murukku, Adirasam, Rava Laddu
- East India: Rasgulla, Chhena Poda, Pitha
Joining a family or local community for their festive meal is one of the best ways to truly experience the warmth of Diwali.
Conclusion: The Light That Unites India
From Rajasthan’s deserts to Kerala’s beaches and the Himalayan valleys to Assam’s tea gardens, Diwali unites India in joy and light. It’s more than a festival; it’s a feeling beyond geography or language.
Traveling through India during Diwali allows you to witness how 1.4 billion people celebrate togetherness, tradition, and hope. This festive season, explore a land where every diya tells a story and every journey brightens your spirit.
Plan your journey to India this Diwali and immerse yourself in a celebration that promises unforgettable light, joy, and connection. Experience the magic firsthand as each moment unfolds like a vibrant tapestry before your eyes. Picture yourself standing at the Varanasi ghats, where at dawn, the river Ganges seems to sing with the soft glow of thousands of flaming diyas floating on its waters. Let Diwali’s glow inspire your next adventure and offer tales of wonder that you will carry home and retell for years to come.
