Every autumn, Diwali—the Festival of Lights rooted in Hindu tradition and also celebrated by Sikhs, Jains and Buddhists—illuminates cities and villages in India and beyond. The festival symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. Homes glow with oil lamps (diyas), fireworks light the sky, and sweet treats are shared among friends and neighbors.
Diwali celebrations usually last most of a week. The exact dates vary year to year, but fall around mid-September to mid-November. For travelers, it’s one of the most joyful cultural immersions into a community you can experience.
Here are five unforgettable destinations to experience Diwali yourself:
INDIA
Varanasi, India – The Spiritual Heart
On the banks of India’s Ganges River, Varanasi glows with thousands of flickering lamps placed along the ghats. During Dev Deepawali (a few weeks after Diwali proper), the entire riverfront is illuminated with thousands of floating candles. Travelers can take a boat ride to witness the surreal sight of floating candles drifting downstream while fireworks burst overhead.
Jaipur, India – The ‘Pink City’ Illuminated
Known for its architectural splendor and its color calling card, India’s ‘Pink City’ of Jaipur transforms into a wonderland of light for Diwali. Markets and palaces are draped in dazzling decorations, and contests for the “best-lit shop” keep the city buzzing. Visitors can join in local feasts, enjoy Rajasthani sweets, shop for festive handicrafts in the bazars, and wander through streets that feel like an open-air art installation.
Pro Tip: Late October through March (when Diwali usually falls) is one of the best times of year to visit India, even beyond the festival itself. By late October, much of India enjoys dry, sunny days and pleasant evenings. That also makes it India’s busiest tourist season, so book well in advance.
GLOBAL CELEBRATIONS
Because of the Indian diaspora, Diwali is celebrated not just in India but in Singapore, Malaysia, Fiji, the UK, Canada, and beyond. That gives travelers a number of very different travel destinations to celebrate what’s become a world-wide cultural phenomenon.
London, UK – Trafalgar Square Festivities
Home to one of the largest Indian diasporas in Europe, London is said to have the best Indian cuisine outside of India, and it hosts a vibrant annual Diwali celebration in the heart of London in Trafalgar Square. Free concerts, Bollywood dance, food stalls, and family activities turn the heart of the city into a joyful gathering place. It’s an accessible way for first-time visitors to experience Diwali traditions outside India.
Singapore – Little India in Bloom
Singapore’s Little India district becomes the city’s cultural hub each Diwali. Serangoon Road dazzles with colorful arches and light displays, while bazaars sell garlands, saris, and sweets. Travelers can join community prayers at historic temples like Sri Veeramakaliamman or simply savor Diwali snacks at hawker stalls.
Fiji – An Island Fusion Festival
With its vibrant Indo-Fijian community, Fiji’s Diwali is a joyful island-meets-India fusion. Nearly 40% of Fiji’s population is of Indian heritage, so the South Pacific island nation embraces Diwali. In Suva and Nadi, homes and temples are illuminated, and multicultural street fairs mix Indo-Fijian traditions with island hospitality. Join in the street fairs, temple visits and tasting Indian sweets alongside tropical delicacies—an unforgettable blend of cultures.
Participating in Diwali worldwide
The essence of Diwali is the spirit of light and togetherness, and guests to communities are welcomed into the celebrations.
- Join public events: light displays, concerts, and temple gatherings are open to visitors.
- Taste the sweets: From laddoos in Jaipur to fusion desserts in Fiji, Diwali indulges your sweet tooth!
- Dress the part: Guests wearing a kurta or sari is welcomed, and make for tremendous photos!
- Light a diya: Travelers are often invited to light a small oil lamp—a symbolic and moving gesture of inclusion.
Being part of Diwali celebrations anywhere in the world makes your trip sparkle with cultural immersion and sheer joy.
START YOUR TRIP!
Image: Getty
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