One of India's most important holidays, Diwali is also referred to as the "Festival of Lights" and is celebrated nationwide. During this time of year, streets are adorned with colorful decorations that promise a joyous atmosphere, while dwellings are illuminated with lamps and diyas. To represent the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil, Diwali is celebrated as the festival of lights. 

In India, many towns and cities celebrate Diwali in their own special ways and provide something different but no less beautiful. Here are a few locations in India where you may experience the enchantment of this celebration and create lifelong memories.

Varanasi ~

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In Varanasi, thousands of shimmering ‘Diyas’ illuminate the Ganges River after dark, creating a mystical scene as the city celebrates Diwali. The Ganga Aarti, a unique prayer ceremony that draws tourists from all over, is the main event. This sacred city is a memorable place to visit during Diwali because of the ongoing celebrations. 

Dev Diwali, sometimes referred to as the "Diwali of the Gods," is a magnificent festival celebrated in Varanasi, a holy city. 
This year, the city is getting ready to light up its temples and ghats with innumerable ‘Diyas’ and lamps, producing a captivating sight that attracts both tourists and devotees. Kartik Poornima, another name for Dev Diwali, is observed on the night of the full moon in the Hindu month of Kartik. Since it is thought that the gods light up the ghats to show their happiness, it is regarded as an auspicious occasion. Observing this celestial occurrence and bathing in the Ganges during this time, according to devotees, can purify the spirit and bring good fortune.

Ayodhya ~ 

Diwali celebrations at Ram's ‘janm bhoomi’ are mystical as the festival of lights draws near. It commemorates the return of Lord Ram after 14 years of exile and is hailed as his kingdom. The ruins of a bygone past abound in Ayodhya, which is situated on the east bank of the River Saryu. The beauty of Ayodhya is depicted in the well-known epics, Ramayana and Shri Ramcharitmanas.

Since Lord Ram was born in Ayodhya, this city celebrates Diwali differently than the rest of the nation. Actually, Ayodhya is where Diwali festivities begin. The main festivities are held in the Sarayu River, where thousands of diyas illuminate the riverbanks. You will be taken to a peaceful place by this amazing scenery. Ayodhya is a must-see location, particularly during festivals, and is lined with several temples, ghats, and stunning buildings.

Diwali is celebrated with great fervor in Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Rama. The festivities remain lively each year, attracting tourists who want to learn about the history and culture of this important city. Witnessing the Diwali festival at Ayodhya is a spiritual and cultural delight for the soul and senses. Ayodhya celebrates Diwali with a flowing breeze, lit waters, and resounding religious chants. 

Jaipur~ 

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Brightly lighted markets that stay open late so that tourists can enjoy shopping for traditional handicrafts make Jaipur come alive during Diwali. The streets and forts of the city are lit up, providing a lovely setting for the festivities. Indulge in regional Rajasthani cuisine and culture during Jaipur's Diwali celebrations.

During the Diwali celebration, the pink city comes to life as a kaleidoscope of hues, traditions, and culture. Some of the most stunning and well-known tourist destinations in India can be found in this energetic city, and they are especially captivating during the holidays. It is a breathtaking sight to see the pink city transformed into a bride during the festival of lights and love.  Jaipur's vibrant decorations accentuate its culture and royalty.

The famous tourist attractions in Jaipur that you can visit to witness Diwali lighting~

1. Nahargarh Fort – Located at the edge of the Aravalli Hills, the magnificent Nahargarh Fort offers a panoramic view of Jaipur city and is an iconic spot to marvel at the sunset. During Diwali, the view from the Nahargarh Fort is simply breathtaking. The entire city seems to be glittering like stars, thereby reflecting a heavenly sight.
2. Jal Mahal – Jal Mahal is one of the prime locations of Jaipur located at the centre of Man Sagar Lake. The palace is another architectural marvel along with the other palaces and forts of Jaipur. During Diwali, the Jal Mahal is decked up beautifully, such that, it provides a completely jaw-dropping view from a distance. The glittering reflection of the Jal Mahal on the lake is yet another sight to behold.
3. Statue Circle – This spot turns out to be one of the most happening spots in Jaipur during Diwali. The lights hanging around the statue emits a mesmerizing view. The place is also renowned for cold coffee. So you can enjoy the Diwali lighting at the Statue Circle while sipping a cup of cold coffee. 
4. Hawa Mahal – The Hawa Mahal, or the Palace of Winds, is a unique five-story building built for the women of the royal household to observe the street festivals and processions from a safe distance. The palace is a striking example of Rajputana architecture, with intricate latticework and balconies, which resemble a honeycomb. During Diwali, the palace is lit up with vibrant colors and lights, making it an alluring sight to see.
5. Johari Bazaar – As the name suggests the market is famous for shopping jewellery and records a high volume crowd during Dhan Teras. During the festival, the shops and the residential buildings are all decorated with lights and the market area looks quite charming. 

Kolkata~

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Seeing Diwali celebrations in Kolkata is a great idea since they combine modern and traditional customs in a way that is both nostalgic and progressive. Grand idols of Goddess Kali stand tall in several neighborhoods, and the streets are adorned with thousands of ‘Diyas’ and vibrant rangoli patterns. Traditional Bengali sweets, marigold flowers, and incense fill the air. Kali Puja, which is held during Dussehra, is West Bengal's second-largest celebration after Durga Puja. While Lakshmi Ji is worshipped throughout Diwali, Kali is the primary deity worshipped during the festival in West Bengal, and the main Lakshmi Puja of Diwali in the other states occurs on the full moon day (Purnima), five days following Dussehra. Visitors can enjoy the cultural experience and discover the city's festive mood during this wonderful period. During Diwali, Kolkatans eagerly await the opening of the sweets boxes. You have probably never indulged in Kolkata's unique Diwali sweets like this before!