This Diwali, enjoy budget-friendly escapes across India under ₹20,000. From Pushkar's festive ghats to Coorg's serene hills, options like Jaipur, Rishikesh, Varanasi, and Mysore offer heritage, nature, and spirituality with tips to save on travel and stay
Thanks to the stars, this time Diwali break is long and perfect for a quick escape. With offices shut and festive chaos at home, everyone wants to sneak in a mini vacation, but not everyone wants to blow up their bonus on it, right? The good news is that you don't have to. From the pink-lit streets of Jaipur to the calm coffee trails of Coorg, there are plenty of stunning Indian destinations you can explore under the budget of just ₹20,000. Whether you want heritage, beaches, or pure mountain peace, these spots offer it all without the guilt of overspending. So, ready for a quick getaway? Here are some exciting and budget-friendly options for your Diwali holidays.
Also Read: Where To Celebrate Diwali In Ayodhya: A First-Time Traveller's Guide
Here Are 6 Best Places To Visit During Diwali Holidays Under Rs 20,000
1. Pushkar, Rajasthan
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Pushkar is magical during Diwali. The lake's ghats glow with diyas, temples light up, and vibrant bazaars burst with energy. The atmosphere is festive and spiritual without being overrun.
What To Do In Pushkar:
You can wander around Pushkar Lake at night, shop for handicrafts in local markets, and even join an aarti at the Varah Ghat.
Must Try In Pushkar:
Camel ride around the lake, night strolls under stringed lights, traditional Rajasthani thali at a rooftop cafe.
Budget Required For Pushkar:
Estimated 2-3 days cost per person (include travel + stay + food) = Rs 8,000 – Rs 12,000
2. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
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If you want Diwali with peace and spirituality rather than fireworks and crowd rush, Rishikesh fits the bill perfectly. You can expect a tranquil evening on the Ganga ghat, yoga in the hills, and devotional chants that make it a healing getaway.
What To Do In Rishikesh
You can participate in the Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat, explore ashrams, and go on short hikes in the foothills.
Must Try Things In Rishikesh
Floating diyas on the Ganges, simple vegetarian meals, yoga or meditation session in the morning.
Budget Required For Rishikesh
Budget for 2-3 days usually lands between ₹10,000-₹15,000 with guesthouses/ashrams.
3. Jaipur, Rajasthan
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The Pink City dresses up in lights for Diwali, and palaces, forts, and bazaars glow. Jaipur offers a festive mix of heritage, shopping, and food for you and your family without burning a hole in your pocket.
What to Do In Jaipur
Visit Amer Fort lit up, roam Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar for festive shopping, and watch fireworks over the city walls.
Must Try Things In Jaipur
Rajasthani dal baati churma, sweets like ghevar or mawa kachori, evening classes or local folk performances.
Budget Required For Jaipur
You can make Jaipur work comfortably under ₹18,000 for 2-3 days, especially from nearby states.
4. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
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Few places mark Diwali like Varanasi. The ghats with floating diyas, temples echoing with chants, and the ancient city drenched in spiritual fervour, as every corner feels sacred.
What to Do In Varanasi
Enjoy Dev Deepawali (deep festival lights on ghats), sunrise boat ride, exploring narrow alleys and rooftop views.
Must Try Things In Varanasi
You must try local Banarasi paan, chaat from street vendors, sweets like ladder or malaiyyo.
Budget Required In Varanasi
Estimated costs (stay in budget hotels, local transport, simple food): ₹12,000-₹18,000 for 2-3 days.
5. Coorg, Karnataka
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If you want Diwali in nature, away from fireworks and congestion, Coorg's green hills, coffee plantations, and misty mornings are ideal. Festivity here feels like reconnecting with calm.
What To Do In Coorg
You can walk through coffee estates, trek short trails like Abbey Falls, and relax at plantation homestays.
Must Try Things In Coorg
Fresh Coorgi coffee and ‘pandi curry,' homestay meals, cosy bonfire nights under stars.
Budget Required For Coorg
2-3 days trips from nearby cities often cost ₹10,000-₹18,000 depending on stay type. However, this excludes flight/transportation costs.
6. Mysore, Karnataka
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Mysore brings regal charm to Diwali. The palace is illuminated; you will see grand processions all around while the ornate silk markets make the city a festive delight. Yet it is calm enough to enjoy without stress.
What to Do In Mysore
You can see Mysore Palace lit up in lights, explore Devaraja Market, and visit Chamundi Hills for sunset.
Must Try Things In Mysore
Indulge in Mysore pak, filter coffee, silk saree shopping, local utsava or temple rituals.
Budget Required For Mysore
You can plan a 3-day Mysore Diwali getaway under ₹15,000-₹18,000 if you book stays and travel early.
Budget Tips To Keep In Mind For Diwali Travel
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1. Book Early, Travel Smart
Prices shoot up closer to Diwali, so book at least 2–3 weeks in advance for cheaper flights and hotels.
2. Pick Offbeat Over Popular
Skip Goa for Gokarna or Shimla for Shoja; lesser-known destinations are cheaper yet equally scenic.
3. Travel Midweek
Plan your departure a day before or after the holiday rush to avoid peak fares.
4. Use Rewards And Cashback
Check your credit cards or UPI apps for festive travel offers.
5. Share Costs
Choose from group stays, homestays, or Airbnb apartments. Splitting bills cuts budgets big time.
Also Read: How To Explore Goa On A Budget Of Rs 10,000: Comprehensive Guide To Stay, Food And Travel
How To Save Money On Stay And Food During Festivals
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1. Stay Local
Homestays and guesthouses are usually 30-40 per cent cheaper than resorts, and they include home-cooked meals.
2. Avoid Hotel Dining
Eat where locals eat. It could be small cafes, thali joints, or street food stalls that are not just authentic but also affordable.
3. Use Meal Combos
Look for properties offering complimentary breakfast or half-board meal plans.
4. Go Cashless Smartly
Many hotels and restaurants run card or app-based Diwali discounts. So, always ask before paying.
5. Carry Essentials
Pack snacks, refillable water bottles, and basic medicines so you don't spend on overpriced convenience buys.
So, pack your bags and celebrate Diwali at these exciting places, without burning your wallet!
