What is it like celebrating Diwali away from home in a fabulous destination? And you know, this year, Diwali is clubbed with the weekend, giving you a golden chance to plan a short yet memorable trip with your family and friends. So, what are you waiting for? Gift yourself and your loved ones the gift of travel this festive season.
For a holly jolly vacation and joyful Diwali celebrations, look no further than South India. From glittering diyas to sparkling fireworks, from the inviting aroma of freshly made Diwali sweets to blissful celebrations and unmatched festive fervor, it’s hard to miss the surprising charm South India wears during Diwali.
As you know South India is packed with countless, fascinating tourist destinations and it comes as no surprise that choosing the best among them can be quite difficult.
To help you choose the perfect Diwali vacation destination, here is our pick of the best.
Mahabalipuram
Go with your gang to celebrate Diwali by exploring the remarkable UNESCO-listed gem, Mahabalipuram. Tamilnadu’s Mahabalipuram aka Mamallapuram appeals to all holiday vacationers who love history and architecture.
Wander around the architectural marvels and amaze at the magnificence of the centuries-old Shore Temple, the Pancha Rathas (Five Chariots), the world’s largest open-air-bas-relief called Arjuna’s Penance, and Krishna’s Butterball.
Don’t miss visiting Mahabalipuram Beach and the India Seashell Museum, the biggest seashell museum in the whole of Asia and also the largest of its kind in India.
Alleppey Backwaters:
If you really want to spend a relaxing and calm Diwali vacation close to nature, look no further than Alleppey Backwaters. You will be enchanted by the surreal beauty of the place, bountifully blessed by Mother Nature.
Soak in the fresh air and gorgeous greenery while cruising the inviting backwaters in a houseboat, take a stroll through the rustic villages and experience the rural life up, close, and personal, watch the stunning sunset over Alleppey Beach, and go shopping in the nearby streets.
Don’t miss the enticing houseboat cruise and the delicious Kerala cuisines with seafood varieties.
Mysore:
Travel to Mysore for a truly unforgettable Diwali vacation. Outfitted with a million lights and festive decorations, Mysore looks simply magical during Diwali.
With so much to offer, from myriad shopping delights to sightseeing places, vibrant celebrations, and a fantastic array of food varieties, Mysore is definitely one of the best destinations to celebrate this Diwali vacation.
Don’t miss striking a pose with the stunning Mysore Palace, decked with sparkling lighting and try delicious Diwali sweets.
Pondicherry:
Celebrating the Diwali vacation in Pondicherry which sparks the rich history of the French past at every corner can be a whole different experience.
Pondicherry‘s ever-charming setting looks even more spectacular when decorated for Diwali festivity. Treat yourself to a thrilling boat ride from the Chunnambar Boat House to the breathtakingly beautiful Paradise Beach, enjoy a leisure stroll through Promenade Beach, admire the historical monuments, experience the quirks of street shopping, and dine at multi-cuisine restaurants that offer delectable food with great ambience.
Don’t miss visiting the quaint, charming French colony of Pondicherry and feast your tummies with authentic French recipes.
Hyderabad:
Head to Hyderabad this Diwali to soak up colourful celebrations, experience charming traditions and rituals, see iconic monuments and heritage sites turned into stunning spectacles with shimmering lights, and enjoy Diwali feasts. Diwali vacation in Hyderabad is sure to bring more lights, good cheer, and vigor to your festival. For shopaholics, Hyderabad is your go-to place to shop your heart out for Diwali.
Don’t miss shopping around Laad Bazaar and to enjoy mouth-watering Hyderabadi Biriyani.
Goa:
How about spending this Diwali vacation at one of the most happening destinations in South India like Goa where partying and beaching never ends? Beautiful festival lights illuminate the streets of Goa and the incredible beaches & cafes welcome guests with the warmth of this festival. While Goa is far-famed for its amazing beaches, you’ll also discover quaint towns, mesmerizing waterfalls, age-old cathedrals & shrines, and numerous colonial structures and heritage sites that reflect Portuguese architecture here.
Don’t miss indulging in the thrill of water sports, especially Scuba diving, Parasailing, Jet skiing, and Snorkeling and also treat your taste buds with a whole lot of seafood and Goan delicacies.
Madurai:
The charming old-world city of Madurai comes alive with warm festival lights and extraordinary festive spirit during Diwali. The magnificent Madurai Meenakshi Temple lit up as a bride with a dozen lighting looks no less than magical and spellbinding. From touring the historic Madurai Meenakshi Temple to hopping through the ancient monuments and vibrant markets, from reveling in shopping to relishing the best of street foods, Madurai has a lot more than what meets the eye.
Don’t miss out on street shopping and hiking to the Jain Caves.
Kovalam:
If you are looking for a peaceful Diwali escape in Kerala, Kovalam is an ideal choice. The place is enveloped with unparallel natural beauty and enchanting charm, offering a perfect backdrop for a calm and relaxing Diwali vacation with family and friends.
This bustling beach destination is full of fun and activities and got everything you need for a wonderful vacay, from internationally renowned beaches teeming with thrilling water sports to well-known Ayurveda massage centres, ancient temples, historic monuments, dams, art galleries, to name a few.
Don’t miss exploring Vizhinjam Rock Cut Cave Temple if you are interested in caving and checking out the exclusive paintings and artworks at Kovalam Art Gallery.
Tanjore:
Tanjore can be a great place to visit this festive season. You can spend a unique Diwali vacation at Tanjore, admiring the brilliant and unbelievably stunning architecture of Brihadeeswara Temple that reflect the power and might of the powerful Chola dynasty. The marvelous temple lights up with elaborate lights, offering a spectacular sight to behold.
Don’t miss shopping for Tanjore paintings and dolls and also try traditional Tanjore cuisine.
Gokarna:
Gokarna is a great pick to escape the Diwali madness and celebrate a blissful festive season. The place is known for its heartwarming blend of tranquillity and picturesque setting. Explore the gorgeous beaches, trek to the beautiful hills, and go camping under the moonlight to add an adventurous twist to your Diwali vacation in Gokarna.
Don’t miss the stargazing tours at Gokarna.
Munnar:
Nothing can be more rewarding than celebrating Diwali vacation in the magical hills of Munnar. The pleasant chilling climate, dazzling greenery, and never-ending tea plantations create a soul-soothing setting to spend the Diwali vacation in peace. Stroll through the enchanting tea gardens, go sightseeing at the famous tourist spots, take short treks across the hillocks, meet the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, and indulge in adventure activities.
Don’t miss shopping for organic tea leaves, spices, aromatic essential oils, and homemade chocolates.
Araku Valley:
If you wish to spend your Diwali vacation in hill stations in Andhra Pradesh, head to Araku Valley. Araku Valley is preferred by holiday seekers looking for peace, beauty, and solitude. From waterfalls to caves and museums, there is plenty to explore and experience in Araku Valley. For an even more memorable experience, go caving at Borra Caves which dates back to one million years.
Don’t miss shopping for tribal jewellery and crafts.
Horsley Hills:
More peaceful than extravagant and loud, Horsley Hills is a great way to experience a different Diwali. This amazing hill station is known for its surreal natural beauty and rip-roaring adventure activities. Surrounded by abundant natural bounties and untouched green spreads, Horsley Hills makes for a visually beautiful setting for visitors.
Don’t miss trying zorbing in Horsley Hills.
We hope this blog helps you find the best destination to celebrate your Diwali vacation in South India.
Take your pick and have a delightful Diwali!
We guarantee, no matter which destination you choose, you’ll be bound to enjoy an exciting and endearing vacation.
South Tourism offers you the best India holiday packages and customized tour packages to treat you with an unforgettable vacation in South India.
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