Diwali is more than just a festival in India; it is an emotional experience, a cultural immersion, and a celebration that lights up entire cities. For foreigners, experiencing Diwali in India can be a life-changing journey into traditions, flavors, lights, and heartfelt human connections. Whether you’re a solo traveler or on a cultural exploration, this blog will guide you through the 10 best places to celebrate Diwali in India for foreigners.
1. Varanasi
Varanasi transforms into a divine light show during Diwali, especially during Dev Deepawali, celebrated 15 days after Diwali. For foreigners looking to dive deep into spiritual India, this is a magical start.
Tourist Attractions
- Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat
- Boat ride on the Ganges with views of the lit ghats
- Dev Deepawali events with diyas lining the ghats
- Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple
How to reach:
- Nearest airport: Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport
- Well connected by train and road from Delhi, Kolkata, and Lucknow
Best time to visit: October to November
Best Things to Do:
- Attend the Ganga Aarti
- Try local sweets like Malaiyyo
- Participate in diya-lighting ceremonies
2. Delhi
Delhi offers a perfect blend of modern festivities and traditional celebrations. For foreigners, it’s a culturally rich and easily navigable introduction to Diwali in India.
Tourist Attractions
- Akshardham Temple Diwali Light Show
- Lajpat Nagar & Chandni Chowk for shopping and street food
- Diwali Melas across the city
- Diwali Pooja at local homes and temples
How to reach:
- Indira Gandhi International Airport is well connected globally
- Metro and road connectivity is excellent
Best time to visit: Mid-October to early November
Best Things to Do:
- Shop at local markets for ethnic wear and decorations
- Visit Diwali fairs for handicrafts
- Join a family or cultural group for Diwali Pooja
3. Agra
Agra during Diwali offers a romantic glow around the Taj Mahal and a laid-back experience compared to the bigger cities.
Tourist Attractions
- Taj Mahal by moonlight
- Diya decorations at Mehtab Bagh
- Local Diwali markets near Sadar Bazaar
How to reach:
- Kheria Airport (limited flights)
- Well-connected via road and train from Delhi
Best time to visit: October to December
Best Things to Do:
- Visit the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort
- Enjoy Petha (local sweet)
- Walk through old bazaars decked for Diwali
4. Amritsar
If you time it right, you get a two-for-one here. Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas (Sikh festival) fall on the same day, turning the Golden Temple into a glowing beacon of devotion.
Tourist Attractions
- Golden Temple lit up with lamps
- Fireworks at night
- Community langar and kirtans
How to reach:
- Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport
- Connected via rail and road to Delhi and Chandigarh
Best time to visit: Late October to early November
Best Things to Do:
- Witness fireworks from the temple’s perimeter
- Participate in community service
- Walk around the decorated old city
5. Jammu
Home to Vaishno Devi, Jammu offers a spiritually rich and peaceful Diwali celebration ideal for those looking for less crowded but emotionally powerful experiences.
Tourist Attractions
- Raghunath Temple decorations
- Local Diwali markets
- Cultural performances and poojas
How to reach:
- Jammu Airport (well connected to major Indian cities)
- Trains from Delhi and North India
Best time to visit: October to December
Best Things to Do:
- Visit Vaishno Devi if you’re up for a trek
- Enjoy local Kashmiri dry fruit sweets
- Explore Dogra art and craft markets
6. Udaipur
A city of lakes glowing with reflections of lamps, Udaipur offers romantic yet traditional Diwali for foreign travelers who want a royal vibe.
Tourist Attractions
- City Palace Diwali celebrations
- Boat ride on Lake Pichola with fireworks views
- Decorated temples and ghats
How to reach:
- Maharana Pratap Airport
- Buses and trains from Delhi, Jaipur
Best time to visit: October to February
Best Things to Do:
- Enjoy Rajasthani thali meals
- Join locals in lighting diyas by the lake
- Explore local art and miniature painting markets
7. Ahmedabad
Ahmedabad becomes a giant carnival of lights and snacks. For foreigners, it’s where you can see how family-centered and foodie-focused Diwali can be.
Tourist Attractions
- Sarkhej Roza and Sabarmati Ashram
- Local sweets like Mohanthal
- Festive lights across Manek Chowk
How to reach:
- Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport
- Extensive train and bus network
Best time to visit: Late October to early November
Best Things to Do:
- Taste Gujarati festive snacks
- Attend cultural events and plays
- Shop for bandhani fabrics
8. Kolkata
Diwali here coincides with Kali Puja—a unique cultural spin that makes Kolkata stand out. The city is loud, bright, and buzzing with art.
Tourist Attractions
- Kali Puja Pandals
- Lighting displays in South Kolkata
- Victoria Memorial and Park Street
How to reach:
- Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport
- Trains and buses from across India
Best time to visit: Late October
Best Things to Do:
- Visit the pandals
- Eat local sweets like Sandesh and Rasgulla
- Explore local art and literature cafes
9. Goa
Goa may be known for beaches and parties, but during Diwali, it gets deeply cultural with Narakasura effigies and street parades.
Tourist Attractions
- Effigy burning of Narakasura
- Temple poojas and beachside diya lighting
- Fireworks at Miramar Beach
How to reach:
- Goa International Airport (Dabolim)
- Buses and trains from Mumbai, Bangalore
Best time to visit: October to March
Best Things to Do:
- Watch local parades
- Participate in beach Diwali events
- Try Goan festive dishes like Bebinca
10. Madurai
In South India, Diwali or Deepavali comes with its own flair—early morning oil baths, sweets, and spiritual energy. Madurai is a great place to witness this.
Tourist Attractions
- Meenakshi Temple lit with lamps
- Street fireworks and processions
- Local bazaars and Tamil sweets
How to reach:
- Madurai International Airport
- Trains and buses from Chennai, Bangalore
Best time to visit: October to January
Best Things to Do:
- Visit the temple during morning aarti
- Try traditional Diwali breakfast (Idiyappam, sweets)
- Walk the flower-filled streets
Related Packages on Ghum India Ghum
Here are some curated packages to help plan your trip to experience Diwali in India for foreigners:
- Rajasthan Tours
- Golden Triangle Tour Packages
- Tamil Nadu Tour Packages
- Varanasi Tour Packages
- Goa Tour Packages
Conclusion
Experiencing Diwali in India for foreigners isn’t just about lights and sweets—it’s about stepping into a collective feeling of joy, unity, and tradition. Each city brings a different story, a different flavor, and a new reason to celebrate. Whether you’re lighting a diya by the Ganges or watching fireworks from a palace courtyard, Diwali in India is an unforgettable chapter of any travel journey.
FAQ | Diwali in India for Foreigners
Q: Is Diwali safe for foreign tourists in India?
Yes, it’s generally safe, but take basic precautions like avoiding crowded places late at night and securing your belongings.
Q: What should I wear during Diwali in India?
Wearing traditional Indian outfits like kurtas or sarees is appreciated and helps blend into the celebrations.
Q: Is it okay to participate in local Diwali events?
Absolutely! Most locals are welcoming and love sharing their traditions.
Q: Can I get vegetarian or vegan food during Diwali?
Yes. Diwali meals are largely vegetarian, and vegan options are increasingly available in most cities.
Q: What is the best way to book a Diwali tour in India?
You can check out Ghum India Ghum’s tour packages which are tailored to showcase Diwali celebrations authentically.
Ready to experience the joy, color, and emotion of Diwali in India? Let Ghum India Ghum guide your way!
For more updates and news about travel, make sure to check out Trending Travel Updates.
