Diwali — the Festival of Lights — is one of India’s most spiritually significant festivals, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. While many celebrate it at home with diyas, sweets, and family gatherings, others seek deeper meaning by traveling to sacred places that embody peace, devotion, and divine energy.
If you’re one of those looking to connect spiritually this festive season, here are the top Spiritual Travel Spots to Visit During Diwali in 2025 that promise soulful experiences, stunning rituals, and unforgettable memories.
Table of Contents
1. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Why Visit:
Varanasi, often called the spiritual capital of India, transforms into a glowing paradise during Diwali. Thousands of diyas light up the ghats, creating a divine reflection on the Ganges River. The sight of the Ganga Aarti during this festival is nothing short of magical.
Things to Do:
- Attend the evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat
- Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple
- Enjoy a peaceful boat ride at sunrise
Budget Tip:
Stay in riverside guesthouses (₹800–₹1,200 per night) and savor local delicacies like kachori-sabzi and lassi for under ₹100.
2. Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh
Why Visit:
Known as the birthplace of Lord Rama, Ayodhya is where Diwali originated. The city celebrates with unmatched grandeur during the Deepotsav festival, where millions of lamps illuminate the Sarayu River.
Things to Do:
- Visit the newly inaugurated Ram Temple
- Watch the Deepotsav light ceremony
- Explore local markets for handcrafted souvenirs
Budget Tip:
Affordable dharamshalas and lodges start from ₹600 per night. Try street food like samosas and chaat for a budget-friendly meal.
3. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Why Visit:
Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, Rishikesh offers peace, spirituality, and yoga retreats. It’s one of the most serene Spiritual Travel Spots to Visit During Diwali, perfect for those who wish to meditate and recharge.
Things to Do:
- Attend evening Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan
- Visit Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula
- Take a yoga or meditation class
Budget Tip:
Stay at ashrams (₹500–₹800 per night, meals included). Walking or renting scooters helps save on local travel costs.
4. Amritsar, Punjab
Why Visit:
At the Golden Temple, Diwali coincides with Bandi Chhor Divas, a Sikh festival celebrating freedom and gratitude. The shimmering temple, dazzling fireworks, and divine atmosphere create a breathtaking experience.
Things to Do:
- Visit the Golden Temple at night
- Enjoy the free community langar
- Explore Jallianwala Bagh and the Partition Museum
Budget Tip:
Pilgrims can stay in the Golden Temple complex for free or nearby budget hotels for under ₹1,000 per night.
5. Haridwar, Uttarakhand
Why Visit:
Haridwar is one of India’s seven holiest cities, and during Diwali, the sight of diyas floating on the Ganges is mesmerizing. The chants, bells, and energy of the Ganga Aarti make it one of the top Spiritual Travel Spots to Visit During Diwali.
Things to Do:
- Witness the grand Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri
- Visit Mansa Devi and Chandi Devi temples
- Shop for spiritual souvenirs in the local market
Budget Tip:
Guesthouses near the ghats cost around ₹700 per night. Street food like jalebi and puri-sabzi is cheap and delicious.
6. Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh
Why Visit:
Tirupati’s Lord Venkateswara Temple is one of India’s richest and most visited spiritual sites. During Diwali, the temple glows with lights and flower decorations, and thousands gather to seek blessings.
Things to Do:
- Offer prayers at Tirumala Temple
- Visit nearby waterfalls and local temples
- Taste authentic South Indian meals
Budget Tip:
Book accommodation through the official TTD website — rooms start at ₹700 per night.
7. Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu
Why Visit:
Rameswaram, one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites, holds great mythological importance as the place where Lord Rama built the bridge to Lanka. Diwali here is celebrated with deep devotion and simplicity.
Things to Do:
- Visit the Ramanathaswamy Temple
- Take a holy dip in the temple’s 22 sacred wells
- Walk on Pamban Bridge and watch the sunset
Budget Tip:
Budget hotels start from ₹600 per night, and South Indian meals are available for under ₹150.
8. Pushkar, Rajasthan
Why Visit:
Pushkar, home to the sacred Pushkar Lake and the only Brahma Temple in India, offers a spiritual yet tranquil experience during Diwali. The town lights up beautifully just before the famous Pushkar Fair.
Things to Do:
- Take a holy dip in Pushkar Lake
- Attend evening aarti at the ghats
- Explore local bazaars for ethnic jewelry and crafts
Budget Tip:
Hostels and guesthouses start from ₹500 per night. Try rooftop cafés for scenic views.
9. Bodh Gaya, Bihar
Why Visit:
Bodh Gaya is one of the holiest places for Buddhists, where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. If you seek inner peace instead of festivities, this is the perfect destination.
Things to Do:
- Meditate under the Bodhi Tree
- Visit the Mahabodhi Temple
- Attend chanting sessions by Buddhist monks
Budget Tip:
Monastery guesthouses offer clean rooms between ₹400–₹700 per night.
10. Madurai, Tamil Nadu
Why Visit:
Madurai, known for the majestic Meenakshi Amman Temple, glows brilliantly during Diwali. The festive lights and cultural performances make it one of the most vibrant Spiritual Travel Spots to Visit During Diwali.
Things to Do:
- Visit Meenakshi Temple for evening aarti
- Try local sweets and snacks in temple streets
- Explore nearby Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace
Budget Tip:
Hotels near the temple start at ₹700 per night, and local transport is budget-friendly.
Final Thoughts
If you want to experience Diwali beyond firecrackers and gifts, these Spiritual Travel Spots to Visit During Diwali are the perfect choice for your 2025 getaway. From the sacred ghats of Varanasi to the divine serenity of Rameswaram, each destination offers a unique blend of tradition, faith, and peace.
This Diwali, let your journey be more than just travel — make it a spiritual awakening filled with light, gratitude, and divine energy.
