Discover how to plan the perfect Diwali vacation in India for 2025. Explore top festive destinations, travel tips, sample itinerary & book with Plane Pockets for great deals.
Diwali, the festival of lights, is one of the most loved festivals in India. It’s a special time for families to come together, follow traditions, enjoy festive food, and take a break from daily life. If you’re thinking about a Diwali vacation in 2025, it’s a great idea to mix celebration with travel.
India has many wonderful places to explore during this festive season. You can visit cities full of culture or choose peaceful spots to relax. If you wish to plan a Diwali trip in India but are unsure how to start, then read this travel guide.
Here, we have shared how to plan a perfect Diwali vacation, the best places to visit during Diwali in India, how to reach those destinations, a sample travel itinerary, and useful travel tips.
Why Travel During Diwali?
Diwali in 2025 is on October 20, and most people get 3 to 5 days off during this time. Schools, offices, and shops will usually be closed. This makes it a great chance for families or solo travelers to take a trip around India.
Generally, festivals make travel more exciting. You could watch fireworks over the lakes in Udaipur or see thousands of oil lamps glowing along the river in Varanasi. Moreover, traveling during Diwali will let you enjoy local traditions, tasty festive food, and the warm welcome of different places. Every Indian city celebrates Diwali in a different way, which will make each trip feel unique and memorable.
How to Plan Your Diwali Vacation
Planning your Diwali vacation ahead of time will help you avoid stress and enjoy the festive season to the fullest. Follow the tips below while planning your Diwali trip, or get travel ideas from Plane Pockets’ AI-based Travel assistant PuNIMA.
- Try to plan your trip between October 18 and 24, 2025. Avoid traveling right before or after Diwali, as those days are usually very busy.
- Choose a destination where you can enjoy both the Diwali celebrations and some peaceful time to relax.
- Book your flights, hotels, and holiday packages early. Prices usually go up as Diwali gets closer. You can use websites like Plane Pockets to find good deals or Diwali vacation packages.
- Pack clothes for both comfort and celebrations. Bring ethnic outfits for temple visits or parties, walking shoes, light jackets, and essentials like chargers and power banks.
- Be respectful when visiting temples or joining religious events. Wear modest clothes and follow local customs.
Best Places to Visit during Diwali Vacation in India
Diwali is celebrated all over India, but North India is a great choice to explore because the weather is cooler and less humid than in the South. Here are some best places we’ve specially chosen for you to visit during your Diwali vacation.
1. Varanasi
Spending Diwali in Varanasi is very special. The entire city shines with lights, especially along the ghats. One of the best events to see is Dev Deepawali on November 1, 2025. On this day, thousands of oil lamps will be placed all along the Ganges River. You will hear prayers and temple bells along with fireworks that make the experience even more spiritual and magical.
Also, you can take a calm boat ride in the evening, watch the Ganga Aarti ceremony, and taste delicious local sweets and snacks. The city feels alive with traditions, colors, and devotion during this time.
You can reach Varanasi by flying into Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport (VNS), taking a train to Varanasi Junction, or traveling by road from cities like Lucknow and Patna.
2. Jaipur
Jaipur, also known as the Pink City, will glow brightly during Diwali. The markets in the city will be beautifully decorated with lights, and the palaces will often hold special Diwali parties. You can enjoy delicious local sweets and treats everywhere you go in Jaipur.
During your visit, you can also explore the famous Amber Fort and City Palace, both beautifully lit up for the festival. Don’t miss shopping for traditional crafts and jewelry in the busy bazaars. Jaipur’s festive atmosphere, combined with its rich history, will make it a wonderful place to celebrate Diwali.
You can reach Jaipur by flying into Jaipur International Airport (JAI), taking a train to Jaipur Junction, or driving about 5 hours from Delhi via NH48.
3. Udaipur
Udaipur is yet another beautiful and royal city in India that looks stunning during Diwali. You can witness colorful fireworks that illuminate the sky over Lake Pichola, as well as historic Havelis that are adorned with lights and lamps.
When you visit Udaipur, you can also enjoy boat rides, roam around the City Palace, explore local markets, and try Rajasthani food while soaking in the festive atmosphere.
If you want to reach Udaipur, you can fly into Maharana Pratap Airport (UDR), take a train to Udaipur City Station, or drive for around 6 hours from Ahmedabad.
4. Goa
If you wish to celebrate a non-traditional yet vibrant Diwali, then travel to Goa. In Goa, you can watch the burning of Narkasura effigies, which is a local tradition. At the time of Diwali, the streets of Goa will be lit with lights, and you can enjoy beach parties and festive food.
While visiting Goa, you can also relax by the sea and shop for Diwali decorations in local markets. It is one of the lively and exciting ways to enjoy the festival in India.
To reach Goa, fly into Goa International Airport (GOI), take a train to Madgaon or Vasco da Gama stations, or drive about 9 to 10 hours from Pune or Mumbai.
5. Amritsar
Celebrate a peaceful and spiritual Diwali at the Golden Temple in Amritsar. The temple shines with lights and floating candles in the water. You can take part in the evening prayer, enjoy the free langar meal, and explore local markets full of festive sweets and decorations.
If you want to feel the festival vibes in Amritsar, visit Hall Bazaar. You can also explore the Gobindgarh Fort, which hosts cultural shows and food stalls during the season.
You can reach Amritsar by flying into Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee Airport (ATQ), taking a train to Amritsar Junction, or driving about 6 hours from Chandigarh.
Sample 5-Day Diwali Vacation Itinerary
Here is a simple 5-day itinerary to enjoy the best of Diwali celebrations in Udaipur and Jaipur.
- Day 1 (October 18, 2025): Arrive in Udaipur and stay in a heritage hotel. Enjoy a boat ride on Lake Pichola and explore Diwali-lit markets.
- Day 2 (October 19): Visit City Palace and Jagdish Temple, then celebrate Diwali with fireworks and a traditional dinner.
- Day 3 (October 20): Travel to Jaipur, visit local bazaars, and attend the evening Aarti.
- Day 4 (October 21): Explore Amber and Nahargarh Forts and enjoy a cultural show.
- Day 5 (October 22): Shop a little before heading home.
Plan Your Diwali Vacation with Plane Pockets
Are you ready to make your Diwali vacation exciting? No matter whether you want a peaceful spiritual trip, a stay in a royal palace, or a beach celebration, Plane Pockets can help. We offer festive tour packages, discounted flights and hotels, and a personalized itinerary just for you. Book now with Plane Pockets and enjoy the magic of India during Diwali 2025 like never before.
