Diwali 2026 is one of the most anticipated festivals in India, bringing together families, communities and travellers for a celebration filled with diyas, colourful decorations, traditional food, shopping and cultural experiences.
The main Diwali 2026 date is 8 November 2026. The festival period also includes Dhanteras, Naraka Chaturdashi, Govardhan Puja and Bhai Dooj, with some regional variations.
For travellers, Diwali is a wonderful opportunity to explore India’s heritage cities, spiritual destinations, markets and mountain towns while experiencing the festive atmosphere.
🪔 Diwali 2026 Dates
| Festival | Date |
|---|---|
| Dhanteras | 6 November 2026 |
| Naraka Chaturdashi / Choti Diwali | 8 November 2026 |
| Diwali / Lakshmi Puja | 8 November 2026 |
| Govardhan Puja | 10 November 2026 |
| Bhai Dooj | 11 November 2026 |
Dates and observances can vary by region, so travellers planning around a particular local celebration should check the local calendar.
What Is Diwali?
Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is widely celebrated as the Festival of Lights.
Homes, temples, markets and streets are decorated with:
- 🪔 Diyas
- ✨ Decorative lights
- 🌸 Flowers
- 🎨 Rangoli
- 🍬 Traditional sweets
The festival has different cultural and religious meanings across India. Many traditions associate Diwali with the victory of light over darkness and good over evil.
For tourists, it is an opportunity to experience India’s diverse traditions, cuisine, shopping and cultural heritage.
Image ALT: Traditional Diwali diyas and rangoli decoration in India
🌟 Best Places to Visit in India During Diwali 2026
1. Ayodhya – Experience the Festival of Lights
Ayodhya is one of India’s most prominent destinations for travellers interested in Diwali traditions.
The city is closely associated with Lord Rama and is known for its large-scale Deepotsav celebrations, particularly around the Saryu River.
Places to visit in Ayodhya
- Ram Mandir
- Saryu River
- Ram Ki Paidi
- Hanuman Garhi
- Kanak Bhawan
If you’re planning an Ayodhya Diwali trip 2026, book hotels and transportation well ahead of time.
Image ALT: Ayodhya Deepotsav and Diwali diyas on Saryu River
2. Varanasi – Diwali on the Ganga
Varanasi offers one of India’s most atmospheric cultural experiences.
The combination of the Ganga ghats, temples, diyas and evening ceremonies creates a memorable setting for a festive holiday.
Things to do
- Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple
- Experience Ganga Aarti
- Explore Dashashwamedh Ghat
- Visit Assi Ghat
- Explore Old Varanasi
- Try traditional food
Image ALT: Varanasi Ganga ghats decorated with diyas during Diwali
3. Jaipur – Diwali in the Pink City
Jaipur is a fantastic destination for travellers who want to combine Diwali celebrations with Rajasthan sightseeing.
The Pink City becomes especially attractive after sunset when markets and buildings are illuminated.
Explore
- Hawa Mahal
- Amber Fort
- City Palace
- Jantar Mantar
- Johari Bazaar
- Bapu Bazaar
A Jaipur–Agra–Delhi Diwali tour is another option for travellers wanting a multi-city holiday.
Image ALT: Hawa Mahal illuminated during Diwali in Jaipur
4. Amritsar – Diwali at the Golden Temple
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Amritsar is another fascinating destination during the festive season.
The illuminated Golden Temple creates a spectacular sight, especially after sunset.
Add to your itinerary
- Golden Temple
- Jallianwala Bagh
- Wagah-Attari Border
- Amritsar heritage streets
- Local Punjabi food
This destination works particularly well for travellers interested in culture, spirituality and food.
Image ALT: Golden Temple Amritsar illuminated during Diwali
5. Udaipur – Diwali by the Lakes
Udaipur combines lakes, palaces and heritage architecture with the festive atmosphere of Diwali.
Places to visit
- City Palace
- Lake Pichola
- Jagdish Temple
- Sajjangarh
- Old City
Udaipur can be particularly attractive for couples looking for a romantic Diwali holiday.
Image ALT: Udaipur Lake Pichola illuminated during Diwali
6. Delhi – Shopping, Food & Festive Atmosphere
Delhi offers a combination of shopping, food, history and festive celebrations.
Popular places include:
- Chandni Chowk
- Connaught Place
- Dilli Haat
- India Gate area
- Old Delhi
If you’re travelling to Delhi around Diwali, expect busy roads and crowded markets.
Image ALT: Delhi markets decorated with lights for Diwali
7. Manali – A Mountain Diwali
Want something different from India’s major cities?
Consider a Manali Diwali holiday.
November offers cooler mountain weather and the beginning of the winter travel season.
You can combine Diwali celebrations with:
- Mall Road
- Old Manali
- Hadimba Temple
- Vashisht
- Solang Valley
- Kullu
Image ALT: Manali mountain holiday during Diwali in Himachal Pradesh
8. Kullu – Diwali in the Himalayas
Kullu is ideal for travellers who want to combine a Diwali holiday with a Himachal Pradesh trip.
You can create a Kullu-Manali itinerary covering:
Kullu → Naggar → Manali → Solang Valley → Kasol
It is also an excellent destination for travellers who want a quieter mountain experience after the major Kullu Dussehra celebrations.
Image ALT: Kullu Valley Himachal Pradesh November landscape
9. Kolkata – Diwali & Kali Puja
Kolkata offers a distinctive festive experience because Kali Puja is celebrated prominently alongside Diwali.
Visitors can explore the city’s temples, markets, food and festive decorations.
Image ALT: Kolkata Kali Puja and Diwali celebration
Diwali Trip Cost 2026
Your Diwali trip cost depends on the destination, hotel, transport and number of nights.
| Travel Style | Approx. Budget |
|---|---|
| Budget | ₹5,000–₹10,000 pp |
| Mid-range | ₹10,000–₹20,000 pp |
| Premium | ₹20,000+ pp |
These are general planning estimates, not fixed 2026 package prices.
Diwali-period costs can increase because of:
- High hotel demand
- Flight prices
- Private taxi rates
- Festive events
- Premium hotels
- Longer stays
Diwali Travel Tips
Book early
Popular destinations can become crowded during Diwali.
Plan transportation carefully
Roads, railway stations and airports may be busier than usual.
Check local celebrations
Different cities have different Diwali traditions and event schedules.
Follow local rules
Firecracker regulations can vary between cities.
Respect religious places
Follow photography, clothing and entry rules at temples and other religious sites.
Carry essentials
Keep your ID, medicines, power bank and emergency contacts with you.
What to Pack for a Diwali Trip
For Manali/Kullu/Himachal Pradesh, carry:
- Warm jacket
- Sweater
- Thermal layers
- Comfortable shoes
- Woollen socks
- Sunglasses
For Rajasthan, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh and other plains, comfortable clothing and walking shoes are generally more suitable, with layers for cooler evenings.
Best Diwali Holiday Itineraries
Jaipur–Agra–Delhi: 5 Days
Day 1: Jaipur arrival
Day 2: Jaipur sightseeing
Day 3: Jaipur → Agra
Day 4: Taj Mahal + Delhi
Day 5: Delhi sightseeing and departure
Kullu–Manali: 5 Days
Day 1: Kullu arrival
Day 2: Kullu sightseeing
Day 3: Kullu → Manali
Day 4: Manali sightseeing
Day 5: Solang Valley + departure
Amritsar: 3–4 Days
Day 1: Arrival + Golden Temple
Day 2: Amritsar sightseeing
Day 3: Wagah Border + local food
Day 4: Departure
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Frequently Asked Questions
When is Diwali 2026?
Diwali 2026 will be celebrated on 8 November 2026.
Which are the best places to visit during Diwali?
Popular options include Ayodhya, Varanasi, Jaipur, Amritsar, Udaipur, Delhi, Kolkata, Manali and Kullu.
Is Diwali a good time to travel?
Yes. It is an excellent time to experience India’s cultural celebrations, although popular destinations can be crowded.
Can I visit Himachal Pradesh during Diwali?
Yes. Kullu and Manali are good options for travellers who prefer a mountain holiday during the festive season.
How much does a Diwali trip cost?
It varies by destination, duration, hotel and transportation. A short domestic trip may start around ₹5,000–₹10,000 per person, while premium holidays can cost significantly more.
Where can couples celebrate Diwali?
Udaipur, Jaipur and Manali can be considered for couples looking for a combination of sightseeing and a festive holiday.
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