From mid-September to November, India hosts vibrant festivals like Durga Puja in Kolkata, Navratri in Varanasi and Ahmedabad, Mysuru’s Dasara, Jaipur’s festivities and Goa’s coastal celebrations.
India transforms into a land of colours, lights, and traditions once September arrives. With Ganesh Chaturthi concluding in August, the weeks that follow- beginning mid-September - mark the arrival of Navratri, Durga Puja, and Diwali season. This is the best time to explore India, as every corner of the country buzzes with celebrations, food, and cultural performances. If you're planning a trip between mid-September and November 2025, here are the best destinations in India to soak in the festive spirit.
Also Read: 7 Safari Parks Around The World That Will Give You The 'Adventure Of A Lifetime'
Here Are 8 Indian Cities To Explore During The Festive Season
1. Kolkata for Durga Puja
Visiting Durga Puja pandals is very popular during the festival.
No festival in India can rival the grandeur of Durga Puja in Kolkata. From intricately designed pandals to idol artistry and community feasts, the entire city becomes a canvas of devotion and creativity.
- Highlights: Visit themed pandals in North Kolkata, enjoy cultural shows, and don't miss bhog (community meals).
- Best Time: Last week of September to early October.
- Why Visit: The city offers an immersive cultural experience, with street food, shopping at New Market, and the iconic Howrah Bridge as backdrops.
2. Varanasi for Navratri
Varanasi, India's spiritual capital, is the place to witness rituals during Pitru Paksha (Sept 8-21, 2025), followed by vibrant Navratri celebrations. The ghats of the Ganga light up with prayers and devotional songs.
- Highlights: Evening Ganga Aarti, temple visits, and boat rides.
- Best Time: Mid-September to late September.
- Why Visit: Perfect for travellers seeking spirituality and cultural depth in one place.
3. Ahmedabad for Navratri Garba Nights
Garba is a traditional Indian dance form that is popular during the Navratri festival.
Photo Credit: Canva
If you want to experience Navratri in its most energetic form, Ahmedabad is the city to be in. The streets and grounds transform into open-air dance floors where people of all ages participate in garba and dandiya.
- Highlights: Traditional dance nights, street food stalls, and colourful attire.
- Best Time: September 22 - October 2, 2025.
- Why Visit: It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the world's longest dance festival.
4. Mysuru for Dasara Festival
The Mysuru Dasara, often called the festival of festivals in Karnataka, is celebrated with royal grandeur. The Mysore Palace is lit with 100,000 bulbs, creating a breathtaking sight.
- Highlights: Grand procession of elephants, cultural programs, and illuminated palace tours.
- Best Time: Early October.
- Why Visit: A mix of tradition, royalty, and architectural beauty.
Also Read: Sinai Peninsula, The Sacred Egyptian Destination, Will Soon Have A Luxury Mega Resort
5. Jaipur - Multiple Festivities Amid Heritage
Jaipur offers a journey into the heritage of India
Rajasthan's Pink City is buzzing with Navratri celebrations, kite flying, and pre-Diwali markets. Jaipur is perfect if you want to pair festival vibes with sightseeing.
- Highlights: Amber Fort sound & light show, bazaars lit up with handicrafts, and traditional Rajasthani thalis.
- Best Time: Late September to November.
- Why Visit: Combines culture, shopping, and heritage in one trip.
6. Goa for A Coastal Festive Getaway
Goa is the perfect destination to enjoy beaches and good food.
Goa isn't just about beaches; the state celebrates festivals like Navratri and Diwali with local traditions, temple rituals, and street feasts. Plus, the post-monsoon greenery makes it picture-perfect.
Highlights: Village festivities, seafood shacks, and serene beaches.
Best Time: September-November.
Why Visit: Great for travellers seeking a balance of relaxation and cultural experiences.
7. Kerala - Onam Spirit Continues
Though Onam officially concludes in early September, Kerala remains festive well into the season. With boat races, temple feasts, and lush backwaters, the post-Onam period is magical.
- Highlights: Kathakali performances, Alleppey backwaters, and spice plantation tours.
- Best Time: Mid-September onwards.
- Why Visit: A perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural richness.
8. Delhi for Dussehra and Diwali Lights
The Diwali festival lights up the sky with lights.
Delhi celebrates Dussehra with Ramlila performances and Diwali with city-wide lights and fairs. It's also the gateway for exploring nearby hill stations if you want a mix of festivities and relaxation.
- Highlights: Ramlila Maidan shows, Diwali markets at Dilli Haat, and India Gate illuminated at night.
- Best Time: Late September to November.
- Why Visit: Perfect for combining metro city energy with festive celebrations.
Why Travel In India During Festivals:
Colour & Culture: These festivals are among the most photogenic - decorations, lights, folk arts, music, dance, rituals.
Local Flavours: Street food and sweets specific to each festival appear (farsaan, special pandal food, etc.).
Community Experience: These are ideal times to see local bonding, traditions, and everyday life as people come together.
More Information On Travelling During India's Festive Season
Q: Which Indian city has the grandest Durga Puja celebrations?
Kolkata is the cultural hub for Durga Puja, with hundreds of pandals and community feasts.
Q: Is travelling expensive during Navratri and Diwali?
Yes, prices for flights and hotels rise. Book early to save costs.
Q: What should you pack for India's festive season?
Comfortable ethnic wear, light cottons for the day, and a shawl or jacket for cooler nights in October.
Q: Are festivals safe for solo travellers?
Yes, but avoid overcrowded places late at night. Stick to well-known pandals and public events.
Q: Can foreigners participate in local festivals?
Absolutely. Indian festivals are inclusive. Just follow local etiquette and dress modestly.
Travelling in India during September and later opens the door to some of the country's most vibrant festivals. It's a time when tradition, food, music, and community spirit bring cities alive as India's festive season offers unforgettable experiences.
