Top Places to Visit in India During Diwali 2025 – Ayodhya Deepotsav, Varanasi Ganga Aarti, Jaipur Lighting

Oct 14, 2025

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Diwali 2025 promises to be one of the grandest celebrations across India, with each region illuminating its own unique tradition of lights, devotion, and festivity. From the spiritual glow of Ayodhya’s Deepotsav to the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti of Varanasi and the royal radiance of Jaipur’s Pink City, the festival transforms India into a dazzling panorama of colors and culture.

This guide covers the best destinations to visit during Diwali 2025, including must-see events, travel tips, traditional foods, and experiences you shouldn’t miss.

1. Ayodhya – The Iconic Deepotsav 2025

Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Rama, has become the epicenter of Diwali celebrations since the inauguration of the Ram Temple and the annual Deepotsav festival.

In 2023, Ayodhya set a Guinness World Record by lighting 22 lakh earthen lamps (diyas) on the banks of the Saryu River. The 2025 celebration is expected to be even larger, with preparations to cross 30 lakh diyas, lighting up the city like never before.

Highlights of Deepotsav 2025

Activity	Details
Date	20–22 October 2025 (tentative)
Main Attraction	Lighting of millions of diyas at Ram Ki Paidi
Special Events	Ram Leela performances, laser shows, and cultural parades
Best Viewing Spots	Saryu Ghat, Ram Janmabhoomi Path, and Hanuman Garhi

Travel Tip: Arrive at least one day early to avoid crowds and book accommodation in nearby Faizabad if Ayodhya hotels are full.

2. Varanasi – Spiritual Glow of the Ganga Aarti

The holy city of Varanasi turns into a divine spectacle during Diwali and Dev Deepawali (celebrated a few days later). The entire ghats are illuminated with lamps as priests perform the grand Ganga Aarti, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness.

In 2024, more than 15 lakh visitors attended the celebrations, and the numbers are projected to increase in 2025.

Top Experiences

Attend the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Take a boat ride on the Ganges during evening prayers for a surreal view.
Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple for divine blessings.
Taste festive treats like Malaiyo, Jalebi, and Banarasi paan.

Quick Info Table

Detail	Information
Main Dates	20–24 October 2025
Ideal Duration	2–3 Days
Don’t Miss	Dev Deepawali (10 days after Diwali)
Average Budget	₹8,000–₹12,000 for 2 days (excluding travel)

3. Jaipur – The Royal Diwali Lighting

Known as the Pink City, Jaipur becomes a royal wonderland during Diwali. Every street, market, and monument is decked in lights. The Rajasthan Tourism Department organizes Diwali Light Decoration Competitions, where the best-decorated markets like Johari Bazaar, MI Road, and Bapu Bazaar attract thousands of visitors daily.

Top Things to See in Jaipur During Diwali 2025

City Palace and Hawa Mahal with illuminated facades.
Amber Fort Light Show with Diwali-themed music.
Shopping in Johari Bazaar for silver jewelry and handicrafts.
Try Local Sweets: Ghewar, Feeni, and Mawa Kachori.

Jaipur Diwali Experience Snapshot

Category	Highlight
Festival Dates	20–25 October 2025
Main Markets	Johari Bazaar, Tripolia, MI Road
Special Events	Lighting Competition, Cultural Dance, and Folk Music
Recommended Stay	Heritage hotels like Samode Haveli, Alsisar Haveli

4. Amritsar – Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas

In Amritsar, Diwali coincides with Bandi Chhor Divas, a Sikh festival commemorating the return of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji. The Golden Temple glows with thousands of diyas, candles, and fireworks reflecting beautifully in the sacred Sarovar.

Highlights

Visit Golden Temple at night for breathtaking visuals.
Enjoy Langar (community meal) at the Gurudwara.
Witness the fireworks display over Harmandir Sahib.

Event	Details
Main Day	20 October 2025
Must-Visit Spots	Golden Temple, Jallianwala Bagh, Gobindgarh Fort
Food to Try	Amritsari Kulcha, Lassi, Makki di Roti with Sarson da Saag

5. Kolkata – Kali Puja and Diwali Fusion

In West Bengal, Diwali coincides with Kali Puja, dedicated to Goddess Kali. The atmosphere in Kolkata is electric with artistic idols, candles, and cultural programs.

Places to Visit in Kolkata During Diwali 2025

Kalighat Temple and Dakshineswar Temple for Puja rituals.
College Street and South Kolkata pandals for decorations.
Try Local Delicacies: Sandesh, Rasgulla, and Mishti Doi.

Category	Details
Main Festival Dates	20–22 October 2025
Major Attractions	Kali Puja, Light Shows, Art Installations
Average Budget	₹10,000–₹15,000 (for 3 days)

6. Udaipur – Diwali by the Lakes

Udaipur, the City of Lakes, celebrates Diwali with royal elegance. The palaces and ghats are illuminated, and Lake Pichola reflects the glow of countless diyas.

Things to Do

Boat ride on Lake Pichola at sunset.
Attend Mewar Festival celebrations.
Visit City Palace and Jag Mandir for their light decorations.

Detail	Information
Ideal Duration	2–3 Days
Main Attraction	Fireworks over Lake Pichola
Best Viewing Points	Ambrai Ghat, Gangaur Ghat
Average Budget	₹12,000–₹18,000 (mid-range stay)

7. Goa – Beachside Diwali Fun

Goa offers a unique twist to Diwali celebrations. Locals build giant effigies of Narakasura (the demon defeated by Lord Krishna) and burn them at dawn, symbolizing victory of good over evil.

Highlights:

Narakasura Parade on Diwali eve.
Fireworks on beaches like Baga, Anjuna, and Calangute.
Goan sweets such as Nevri, Dodol, and Bebinca.

Quick Comparison Table – Top Diwali Destinations 2025

City	Signature Event	Type of Celebration	Ideal Duration
Ayodhya	Deepotsav with millions of diyas	Religious & Grand	2–3 days
Varanasi	Ganga Aarti & Dev Deepawali	Spiritual & Cultural	3–4 days
Jaipur	City Lighting Competition	Festive & Royal	2–3 days
Amritsar	Bandi Chhor Divas at Golden Temple	Sikh & Spiritual	2 days
Kolkata	Kali Puja	Devotional & Artistic	3 days
Udaipur	Fireworks by the lakes	Romantic & Scenic	2 days
Goa	Narakasura Parade	Beach & Cultural	2–3 days

Travel Tips for Diwali 2025

Book flights and hotels early — demand rises 3–4x during Diwali week.
Carry traditional attire for temple visits or festive events.
Use public transport or walk in congested areas to avoid traffic jams.
Respect local customs and avoid lighting fireworks near heritage sites.

Conclusion

Diwali 2025 in India will be more than a festival — it will be an experience of lights, devotion, and unity. Whether you choose Ayodhya’s divine glow, Varanasi’s sacred Aarti, or Jaipur’s royal sparkle, every city offers a unique way to celebrate the victory of light over darkness.

So, pack your festive spirit and witness India at its brightest this Diwali!

Disclaimer

This article is based on cultural and travel insights for general informational purposes only. Event dates and details may vary; travelers are advised to verify schedules and local guidelines before planning trips.

About the author

I’m Himanshu Dhar, a dedicated MIS trainer proudly associated with I Turn Institute. My journey in the realm of data management and automation spans over 14 enriching years. My passion for this field extends to freelancing projects, where I bring real-world practicality into my teaching. My impact in education is marked by the success of over 25,000 students I’ve had the privilege of mentoring, hailing from diverse backgrounds. Beyond the classroom, I’ve had the honor of conducting corporate training sessions and seminars, catering to the unique needs of businesses. Let’s unlock your potential together in the realm of data analysis and automation.