Top 10 Diwali Vacation Destinations, Weekend Getaways
With Diwali just a month away, it’s about time that you start planning your celebrations. The festival to celebrate the return of Lord Ram is just around the corner, and we can’t be more excited! The days when the diyas light up every home and the rice lights make the whole atmosphere pleasing are definitely among the best few in the year. When the night sky lights up with the firecrackers forming gorgeous patterns, we all look towards the heavens and enjoy the sight.
Light Up the World
Of late, many have found a different way of celebrating this festival; we head off to different locations in the world and celebrate the festival in a different manner there. India has some exotic destinations that must be explored to get a different feel of the festival altogether. Here are the best getaways for the Diwali holidays!
1. Varanasi
One of the most holy cities of India, Varanasi is definitely a top destination for the festival of lights – Diwali. The city of temples is where hundreds of thousands of Hindus visit every year to seek blessings and redemption. It is only natural then that during the festive season, the celebrations here are like no other.
2. Matheran
This hill station located near Mumbai is a quick getaway around Mumbai. During the months of Diwali, the entire hill becomes lush green and the temperature drops to a very pleasant range, which makes it a perfect spot to experience the festival in the cradle of nature along with your close ones peacefully.
3. Arunachal Pradesh
Yes, this is probably the best destination for those looking for an adrenaline rush. This is the best season to visit the state and trek around Tawang Chu or raft along the Subansiri River amid the rapids. With ample unique experiences, this is one place that will not disappoint, and help you celebrate the festival of lights in a completely different way!
4. Bandhavgarh
All wildlife enthusiasts are sure to love the wilderness of Bandhavgarh National Park, and if you’re lucky, you may even spot the rather elusive tigers here during this season. Situated nearly 200km from Jabalpur, you’re guaranteed a total seclusion from civilization here, and this is what makes the whole experience a special one.
5. Amritsar
The foundation stone of Golden Temple was laid during Diwali, and this connection is still a lasting one. Head over to this temple to watch its golden roof and clear water reflect the sky illuminated by fireworks and try some special treats at local eateries. And do not forget to have the traditional lassi here!
6. Kutch
The white sands of this huge desert in Gujarat are bound to make you a fan instantly. The temperatures take a dip during the winter season and make these plains a pleasant destination. The attractions here such as the Royal Palace of Mandvi and the Mandvi Beach are extremely scenic, and make your Diwali getaway special.
7. Kashmir
This heaven on earth in northern India is one of the finest places you’ll ever visit. Visiting this place is bound to make you fall for the beauty of nature and there cannot possibly be a better way to celebrate a festival than this. You may not see lights or hear the sounds of firecrackers here, but the snowcapped mountains definitely make up for that.
8. Dwarka
Built ages ago at the order of Lord Krishna, Dwarka is considered one of the most religious places in the world. The city of Lord Krishna is visited by millions of pilgrims every year to seek his blessings and seeing the whole city light up, especially the temple, is a treat and worth every mile traveled to visit this place.
9. Ayodhya
The home to Lord Ram is definitely one of the few unique places to visit during Diwali. This is the very place that he was welcomed back, and you will get the true on-ground feel of the festival right here! The whole city lights up for the festive season and this is reason enough to visit and experience this enchanting atmosphere.
10. Igatpuri
Located in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, this is one of the best places to visit near Mumbai. Known for its serene environment with waterfalls and pleasant climate along with tourist attractions like Kalsubai Peak and Arthur Lake, this is one place you must visit during Diwali time to spend a few peaceful days in the midst of nature.
Apart from these destinations, many international destinations have also come up in the minds of Indians for celebrating Diwali. If you have visited any of the above locations during the festival, do let us know how the celebration there was unique.
Image Credits: NDTV, Wikipedia, Uttar Pradesh Tourism, Bandhavgarh National Park, India.com, Holidify, MakeMyTrip, Rann Utsav, Outlook Traveler, Varanasi City
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