Dussehra and Diwali Festival Experiences in Delhi, Varanasi, and Jaipur
Dussehra and Diwali festival experiences in India are more than just grand celebrations; they are vibrant showcases of history, faith, and community bonding. These festivals light up the country with unique traditions in every region, but few places capture their magic as vividly as Delhi, Varanasi, and Jaipur.
From the epic tales of Ramayana brought to life in Delhi’s Ramlila grounds, to the divine glow of a million lamps on Varanasi’s ghats, and the royal grandeur of Diwali in Jaipur’s palaces and streets, each city offers a distinctive way to celebrate. Travellers looking for the best Diwali destination will find these cities rich with cultural detail, festive energy, and memorable local experiences.
Whether someone is interested in attending historical performances, witnessing spiritual rituals, or simply enjoying vibrant city lights, these three destinations stand out among the best places to visit in Diwali.
In this Blog
Dussehra Festival Celebrations in India: Delhi’s Ramlila Tradition
Delhi is one of the most prominent places to witness Dussehra festival celebrations in India. The city’s Ramlila performances, based on the epic Ramayana, are famous for their scale and authenticity.
Picutre Credits: Wikimedia Commons
Things to do in Delhi during Dussehra
- Attend the Ramlila at the Red Fort Grounds – This is among the oldest and largest Ramlila performances in the country. The event runs for several days and ends with the burning of effigies of Ravana, Meghnath, and Kumbhakaran.
- Visit the Dussehra Mela at Subhash Maidan – A family-friendly fair with food stalls, handicrafts, and cultural programmes.
Explore Delhi’s heritage sites – Combining the festival visit with trips to tourist attractions in Delhi like India Gate, Humayun’s Tomb, and Qutub Minar makes the trip even more memorable.
Best time to visit Delhi for Dussehra
The best time to visit Delhi for Dussehra is in early October when the weather begins to cool down after the monsoon.
Weather in Delhi during Dussehra
The weather in Delhi in October is pleasant, with temperatures ranging between 20°C and 30°C, making it comfortable for outdoor events and sightseeing.
Also Read: Discover a Stunning Villa with Lawn for Diwali Parties: Villas near Mumbai, Delhi and Bangalore
Dussehra and Diwali Festival Experiences in Varanasi
Varanasi, one of the world’s oldest living cities, offers Dussehra and Diwali festival experiences steeped in devotion and tradition. Here, festivals are celebrated with spiritual depth alongside vibrant festivities.
Dussehra in Varanasi
The Ramnagar Ramlila is a 200-year-old tradition organised by the royal family of Varanasi. This month-long performance takes place across different locations in Ramnagar, attracting thousands of devotees.
Diwali in Varanasi
During Diwali, the city’s ghats glow with countless diyas. The rituals begin with Ganga Aarti, followed by lighting lamps along the riverbanks. A special celebration called Dev Deepawali, held a fortnight after Diwali, sees the ghats illuminated more brightly than at any other time of the year.
Things to do in Varanasi during Dussehra and Diwali
- Witness the Ganga Aarti – A daily ritual that becomes even more spectacular during Diwali.
- Attend the Ramnagar Ramlila – An authentic and traditional enactment of the Ramayana.
- Boat ride on the Ganges – Watching the ghats from the river during Diwali is a unique experience.
- Visit the temples – Tourist attractions in Varanasi, such as Kashi Vishwanath Temple and Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, hold special prayers during the festive season.
Best time to visit Varanasi
The best time to visit Varanasi for these festivals is from October to November.
Weather in Varanasi during Dussehra and Diwali
The weather in Varanasi during these months is comfortable, with average temperatures between 18°C and 28°C, ideal for both morning rituals and evening celebrations.
Also Read: How to Reach Varanasi
Dussehra and Diwali Festival Experiences in Jaipur
Jaipur’s royal heritage adds grandeur to both the Dussehra and Diwali festival experiences. The city’s palaces, forts, and bazaars take on a festive glow, and the celebrations combine traditional rituals with cultural displays.
Dussehra in Jaipur
The city hosts processions and fairs, with local communities gathering to burn the effigies of Ravana. The Dussehra Mela in the historic grounds of Amber is a major highlight.
Diwali in Jaipur
Jaipur is often ranked among the best places to visit in Diwali due to its citywide lighting competition. Markets like Johari Bazaar, Bapu Bazaar, and Tripolia Bazaar are decorated with dazzling lights, and local businesses compete for the best illumination award.
Things to do in Jaipur during Dussehra and Diwali
- Shop at festive markets – Johari Bazaar is famous for jewellery, while Bapu Bazaar is known for textiles.
- Visit the City Palace and Hawa Mahal – These tourist attractions in Jaipur are beautifully lit during Diwali nights.
- Attend the cultural performances – Folk music and dance events take place in various parts of the city.
- Stay in a heritage villa – Choosing a villa in Jaipur during the festival allows visitors to enjoy personalised hospitality in a traditional setting.
Best time to visit Jaipur
The best time to visit Jaipur for these festivals is between late October and mid-November.
Weather in Jaipur during Dussehra and Diwali
The weather in Jaipur during this period is mild and dry, with daytime temperatures around 25°C and cool evenings, perfect for night-time sightseeing.
Also Read: Delhi to Jaipur Road Trip via the New Delhi–Jaipur Expressway
Planning a Trip for Dussehra and Diwali Festival Experiences
When planning to experience Dussehra festival celebrations in India along with Diwali in these cities, it’s important to consider timing, accommodation, and local transport.
- Book accommodation early – Villas, hotels, and homestays get reserved quickly during festival seasons. A villa in Delhi, a villa in Varanasi, or a villa in Jaipur can enhance the cultural immersion.
- Combine sightseeing with festival events – Plan days to attend Ramlila performances and nights for temple visits or city light walks.
Travel between cities – Delhi and Jaipur are connected by road and train (about 5–6 hours), while Varanasi is best reached by air from both cities.
Why Delhi, Varanasi, and Jaipur Are Among the Best Places to Visit in Diwali
- Diversity of traditions – Each city offers a completely different way of celebrating the same festivals.
- Blend of history and modern celebrations – From ancient rituals in Varanasi to the competitive market lighting in Jaipur, travellers get a variety of experiences.
- Rich cultural settings – The backdrop of forts, ghats, and historic grounds adds depth to the celebrations.
Experiencing India’s Festive Heartbeat
Dussehra and Diwali festival experiences in Delhi, Varanasi, and Jaipur go beyond just watching rituals, they immerse visitors in the heart of India’s cultural rhythm. Delhi’s grand Ramlila shows the storytelling legacy, Varanasi’s illuminated ghats reflect timeless devotion, and Jaipur’s royal lights showcase vibrant artistry.
For travellers seeking the best Diwali destination, combining these three cities offers a chance to witness the diversity of Dussehra festival celebrations in India in one trip. With pleasant weather, iconic tourist attractions, and rich traditions, this journey promises memories that remain long after the lights have faded.
Author: Ruben Saha
