Experience The Diwali Festival In India: A Travel Guide

User By Azure Lee | Update on: Nov 12, 2024

Exciting times are just around the corner!

Diwali, often called the "Festival of Lights," is India's biggest holiday, spanning five days of festivities. This annual event usually falls in October or November, depending on the lunar calendar, and while it's rooted in Hindu traditions, it has evolved into a national celebration over the centuries. Nepal, Malaysia, Fiji, and other countries with sizable South Asian diasporas also celebrate it widely.

As the name suggests, there is a strong emphasis light over darkness; therefore, lamps, lanterns, and other dazzling lights are strung on homes and along streets to represent the gods' victory.

In this guide, you’ll learn about the Diwali festival’s history, the significance of Diwali festival in India, its vibrant celebrations, and, of course, the delicious food associated with this beloved holiday.

The History Of Diwali Festival In India

The Diwali festival history is deeply rooted in ancient traditions and mythology, evolving over thousands of years. While the specific legends associated with Diwali vary across India’s regions, they all center around the theme of good triumphing over evil.

One of the most well-known stories comes from the epic Ramayana. Diwali is said to celebrate the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and his victory over the demon king Ravana. The people of Ayodhya lit oil lamps (diyas) to welcome Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana back home, marking the beginning of Diwali as a festival of light.

The Diwali festival history is deeply rooted in ancient traditions and mythology

The Diwali festival history is deeply rooted in ancient traditions and mythology

Why is Diwali called the Festival of Lights?

Diwali is aptly named the festival of lights because it illuminates homes, streets, and public spaces with countless lamps and decorations. The lighting symbolizes hope, joy, and positivity as families come together to dispel darkness—both literally and metaphorically. By lighting oil lamps or diyas, people express their belief in overcoming challenges through unity and love.

When is Diwali celebrated in 2024?

Diwali happens on different days every year, despite being an annual event. Diwali always falls on the new moon, which is the darkest day of the lunar month.

More than 150 scholars in Indore have affirmed that November 1st will be the date of Diwali 2024. Because both days fall on Amavasya, there was formerly uncertainty over whether to celebrate on October 31.

The Significance Of Diwali Festival In India

The significance of Diwali festival in India extends beyond mere celebrations. Each tradition during Diwali carries its own symbolism:

Lighting the diyas represents the victory of light over darkness, a way to push away ignorance and negativity. The festival also marks the Hindu New Year, symbolizing fresh beginnings and opportunities ahead. Most importantly, Diwali fosters a sense of unity, bringing families and communities together to share in the joy and warmth of the occasion.

The significance of Diwali festival in India extends beyond mere celebrations

The significance of Diwali festival in India extends beyond mere celebrations

What To Do In Diwali Festival In India   

Wondering what to do in Diwali while visiting India? There are countless ways to experience the festival. Start by visiting the local markets to shop for traditional Diwali items like diyas, colorful rangoli powders, and sweets. Many cities host cultural performances, fairs, and religious events that offer a deeper understanding of India’s traditions.

In the evenings, take part in the Diwali celebration in India by lighting diyas at temples or at your accommodation. Locals will often invite visitors to join them in the festivities, so don’t hesitate to share a meal, burst some firecrackers, or participate in a puja (prayer ceremony). The sense of community during Diwali festival is one of its most beautiful aspects.

What Do You Eat On Diwali

Gulab Jamun

After being fried till golden, these tender, fresh cheese gulab jamun dumplings are dipped in a fragrant rose and saffron syrup and left to soften. To allow them to soak the delicious syrup, prepare them a day or two ahead of time. Serve piping hot.

 Gulab jamun is a classic Indian sweet made with milk solids, sugar, rose water & cardamom powder

 Gulab jamun is a classic Indian sweet made with milk solids, sugar, rose water & cardamom powder

Pistachio barfi

Barfi is popular for its cardamom flavor and soft, fudgy texture, and it comes in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and flavors. It is prepared by boiling milk until it thickens and becomes creamy. After that, it is flavored, sweetened, and combined with finely chopped nuts. A decorated box of barfi is a wonderful Diwali present. 

Cardamom biscuits 

These buttery, cardamom-flavored cookies, which were brought to India by the Mughals, are particularly well-liked throughout South Asia during the festival season. Semolina and gram flour add a crunchy texture and an additional layer of nutty flavor. Sip on some aromatic chai with a warm mug.

Rice pudding (kheer)

Kheer is a luxurious Indian rice pudding that can be served either hot or cold. With lots of dried fruit and nuts, auburn-hued saffron, and zesty cardamom, creamy, slow-cooked rice gets a chic makeover.

What do you eat on Diwali

What do you eat on Diwali

Where To Experience Diwali Festival In India

Varanasi

Varanasi, one of India's holiest pilgrimage destinations, observes Diwali most spectacularly. After taking a bath in the sacred Ganges, visit Varanasi to witness the grander Diwali festivities. You may have a great view of the loud, colorful firecrackers that are fired off in every street throughout the night from the banks of the Ganges.

Additionally, there is a unique "Ganga Aarti" in which diyas are floated down the river and the ghats are illuminated. Make sure to book a room at one of Varanasi's riverfront hotels for the greatest views and experiences.

Varanasi during Diwali is a symphony of spirituality, culture, and tradition

Varanasi during Diwali is a symphony of spirituality, culture, and tradition

Amritsar

For the Sikh community, Diwali has great significance since it commemorates the release of the sixth Sikh guru, Guru Hargobind Singh, from prison. For the occasion, thousands of lamps are ignited inside the Golden Temple. Tourists can take in the illuminated market with lovely lights and the unique kirtans that are performed all across Amritsar.

Golden Temple Amritsar lit by Diya and fire crackers Guru Purab festival and Diwali

Golden Temple Amritsar lit by Diya and fire crackers Guru Purab festival and Diwali

Goa

The already well-liked vacation spot has a unique way of celebrating Diwali. Goans commemorate the slaying of Narakasura by Lord Krishna by burning enormous effigies around the state. Travelers may have an unforgettable party when they combine the chic casinos, beaches, and bars!

Udaipur

Udaipur is a popular destination for Diwali celebrations since the city's dazzling lights, palaces, and fireworks are reflected in the gorgeous Lake Pichola. You can go to the Udaipur Light Festival, which has fun activities, food vendors, art exhibits, and performances by different singers. 

Udaipur is a popular destination for Diwali celebrations since the city's dazzling lights, palaces, and fireworks are reflected in the gorgeous Lake Pichola. You can go to the Udaipur Light Festival, which has fun activities, food vendors, art exhibits, and performances by different singers. 

Udaipur is a popular destination for Diwali celebrations

Udaipur is a popular destination for Diwali celebrations

Jaipur

On Diwali, the enormous expanses of Jaipur, also known as the "Pink City," are illuminated by the cozy warmth of lamps and lights. Its marketplaces also have lovely lighting, and each market competes with the others to have the nicest decorations.

It is an excellent location to spend the holidays because of the stunning lakes that sparkle and glow when fireworks and Diwali lights reflect off of them. For some breathtaking views of the illuminated and adorned city, ascend the Nahargarh Fort. 

Jaipur is a popular destination for Diwali celebrations

Jaipur is a popular destination for Diwali celebrations

Conclusion: Why You Should Experience Diwali In India

The Diwali festival in India is more than just a celebration—it’s a journey into India’s cultural heritage. Imagine being surrounded by glowing oil lamps, witnessing dazzling fireworks, and indulging in delicious traditional foods. Whether you’re exploring the sacred ghats of Varanasi or enjoying the vibrant light displays in Jaipur, Diwali offers a unique and unforgettable experience.

If you’ve ever dreamed of visiting India, there’s no better time than during Diwali. This is your chance to not only explore India’s rich traditions but also to connect with locals, share in their celebrations, and create lifelong memories.

To make this dream a reality, securing your travel arrangements is essential. The good news is that applying for an Indian eVisa has never been easier! With just a few clicks on our website, you can complete your Indian visa application in 15 to 20 minutes from the comfort of your home. The process is straightforward: fill out the online form, provide the necessary documents, and pay the visa fee.

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