Diwali Festival of India – 7-Day Journey to Explore Northern India

India is one of the most culturally diverse and uniquely traditional countries in Asia. If you had to choose only two festivals to experience in India, it would surely be the Holi Festival of Colors (March) and Diwali – the Festival of Lights (October or November). Both are spectacular celebrations that captivate visitors with their beauty and meaning.

If you plan to travel to India at the end of the year, don’t miss the Diwali Festival. To enjoy the celebration to its fullest, join Vietjet’s 7-day journey through North India and uncover the most stunning destinations, from Delhi to Agra and Jaipur, for an unforgettable cultural experience.

1. What is Diwali? Why Visit North India During Diwali?

Diwali (or Deepavali) means “a row of lights.” The festival symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.

1.1 Origin and Meaning of Diwali

Diwali is tied to many ancient legends, the most popular being the story of Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya with his wife Sita and brother Lakshmana after 14 years of exile and the defeat of the demon king Ravana. To welcome their return, the people of Ayodhya lit thousands of oil lamps (diyas), turning the city into a sea of light. Since then, Diwali has become a symbol of joy, renewal, and hope, and an occasion for people to pray to Goddess Lakshmi for wealth, prosperity, and good fortune.

Diwali is one of the most iconic and celebrated traditional festivals in India.

1.2 The Five Days of Diwali Festivities

The Indian Diwali Festival lasts five days, with each day holding its own special meaning and rituals. Since it follows the Hindu lunar calendar, the dates vary yearly. In 2025, Diwali will be celebrated from October 18 to October 23.

Day 1 – Dhanteras (Oct 18, 2025): The festival begins by honoring wealth and inviting Goddess Lakshmi into homes. It is considered the most auspicious day to buy gold and precious metals.
Day 2 – Choti Diwali / Naraka Chaturdasi (Oct 20, 2025): Homes are decorated with flowers and colorful rangoli patterns, and prayers are offered for ancestors’ blessings.
Day 3 – Lakshmi Puja / Diwali (Oct 21, 2025): The main celebration day! Families perform Lakshmi Puja for prosperity, light diyas and candles, and enjoy spectacular fireworks.
Day 4 – Govardhan Puja (Oct 22, 2025): Dedicated to Lord Krishna’s victory over Indra, the God of Rain, special prayers are performed to show gratitude and devotion.
Day 5 – Bhai Dooj (Oct 23, 2025): The final day honors the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters prepare feasts for their brothers, who in return vow to protect them and offer gifts.

With such a meaningful 5-day celebration, a 7-day trip is ideal to experience the excitement before, during, and after the main festival days of Diwali in India.

1.3 Why Choose North India for Diwali?

A One-of-a-Kind Experience: Traveling to North India during Diwali means immersing yourself in celebration – from small alleyways to grand temples, every home and street is adorned with lights, flowers, and colorful rangoli designs.
A Shopper’s Paradise: Famous markets like Chandni Chowk (Delhi) and Johari Bazaar (Jaipur) are more vibrant than ever, filled with traditional clothes, decorations, lanterns, sweets, and jewelry.
Culture & People: This is the perfect time to witness authentic Hindu rituals, feel the warmth and hospitality of the locals, and gain a deeper understanding of Diwali traditions in India.

Each city in North India celebrates Diwali in its own unique and beautiful way.

3. Where to Visit in North India During the Diwali Festival

Each city in North India has its own way of celebrating Diwali, offering visitors unforgettable experiences.

3.1 Jaipur – The Most Beautiful Diwali Celebration

Jaipur offers a true feast for the eyes. You’ll have the chance to capture stunning photos of streets illuminated by countless Diwali lights, especially around the old quarters stretching from Bapu Bazaar to the City Palace, or admire the panoramic view of Jaipur by night from Nahargarh Fort. To immerse yourself in the festive spirit, take a tuk-tuk ride through the lively Diwali markets and try henna painting for a touch of local artistry.

3.2 Varanasi – Famous for the Dev Deepavali Festival

Varanasi celebrates Diwali much like other Indian cities but is especially renowned for Dev Deepavali (the Diwali of the Gods), held 15 days later. On this day, all the ghats (steps leading to the Ganges River) are beautifully decorated with countless diyas (oil lamps). Taking a boat ride along the river is the best way to enjoy this picturesque and spiritual spectacle.

Celebrating Diwali in Varanasi offers travelers a truly unique and spiritual experience.

3.3 Amritsar – Diwali with Sikh Traditions

In Amritsar, Diwali coincides with the Bandi Chhor Divas festival. The Golden Temple becomes the most breathtaking site, illuminated by thousands of lamps and diyas. On Diwali night, visitors can enjoy spectacular fireworks and light candles for blessings, joining pilgrims in an atmosphere of peace and devotion.

3.4 Delhi – The Most Vibrant Diwali Markets

As India’s most popular gateway city, Delhi is the ideal choice for those with limited time. Don’t miss its colorful Diwali bazaars! Dilli Haat is the largest market, while Chandni Chowk in Old Delhi offers the most energetic atmosphere. For a more local experience, join a street food tour and taste India’s signature Diwali sweets and festive dishes.

3.5 Kolkata – Where Kali Puja Meets Diwali

Kolkata is the perfect destination to experience Diwali in a more serene setting, combined with the unique Kali Puja celebration. On the main Diwali day, you can attend puja (prayer) rituals at the iconic Kalighat Temple. As night falls, the city lights up with pandals (large decorative tents) featuring statues of Goddess Kali surrounded by glowing Diwali lamps.

In Kolkata, locals celebrate Diwali by worshiping Goddess Kali during the Kali Puja festival.

3.6 Udaipur – Diwali in a Relaxed Atmosphere

If you’re looking for a peaceful stop to round off your Diwali trip, Udaipur is one of the best options. Enjoy a private boat ride on Lake Pichola, where the city’s palaces and temples shimmer under Diwali lights — creating a romantic and unforgettable experience.

4. Suggested 7-Day Itinerary to Celebrate Diwali in North India

4.1 Recommended Route

The classic “Golden Triangle” route – Delhi, Agra, Jaipur – is the perfect choice to fully experience the vibrant Diwali atmosphere in India.

Day	Itinerary
Day 1	Book your Vietjet flight from Vietnam to New Delhi.
	In the evening, stroll around the local markets.
Day 2	Visit the Red Fort.
	Explore Humayun’s Tomb.
	Admire the grand architecture of the India Gate.
	Discover heritage sites and immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere at Connaught Place.
Day 3	Travel to Agra.
	Visit the Taj Mahal – the eternal symbol of love.
Day 4	Explore Agra Fort.
	Travel to Jaipur.
	Experience the festive spirit of the Diwali Festival with dazzling fireworks, colorful lanterns, and traditional religious celebrations.
Day 5	Visit Amber Fort.
	Explore the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds).
Day 6	Go shopping at Johari Bazaar.
Day 7	Return to Delhi.

Your 7-day Northern India journey begins with a flight from Vietnam to New Delhi.

4.2 Estimated Travel Costs

To help you plan better, here’s an overview of the estimated expenses for a 7-day Diwali trip in North India:

Airfare: This is usually the biggest expense. Round-trip tickets range from 7,000,000–14,000,000 VND, depending on booking time. To save more, plan early and take advantage of Vietjet’s “12PM Vietjet Sale” promotion, offering 0 VND tickets for flights to India during the golden hours 12:00–14:00 daily. (Check full details here )
Accommodation: North India offers plenty of options. For a comfortable stay, choose 3–4 star hotels with rates from 800,000–1,500,000 VND per night.
Food & Transportation: Local food and intercity travel are quite affordable. Budget around 700,000–1,000,000 VND per day to enjoy authentic Indian cuisine and use auto-rickshaws or taxis.
Attraction Tickets: Entry fees for landmarks such as the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and Amber Fort total around 1,500,000 VND per person for the entire trip.

Estimated total cost for one traveler: 20,000,000–28,000,000 VND, depending on travel style and booking time.

To save more on your Diwali trip to India, don’t miss Vietjet’s 0 VND flight promotions!

Experiencing India’s Diwali Festival in the northern region will undoubtedly be one of the most memorable journeys of your life. Don’t wait—start planning today and be part of this magical Festival of Lights!

Visit Vietjet’s official channels for the latest flight deals and travel updates.