Diwali, the festival of lights, is one of the most widely celebrated festivals in India, and Uttar Pradesh (UP) is among the states where the festival is celebrated with the greatest fervor and enthusiasm. The state’s rich cultural heritage, vibrant traditions, and deep-rooted spirituality make Diwali in Uttar Pradesh a truly magical experience. From grand celebrations in cities like Varanasi and Ayodhya to traditional rituals in small towns and villages, Uttar Pradesh offers a wide range of activities to immerse yourself in the Diwali spirit. Here are ten things to do in Uttar Pradesh to celebrate Diwali.

1. Witness the Grand Diwali Celebrations in Ayodhya

Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Rama, is one of the most significant places to celebrate Diwali in Uttar Pradesh. The city comes alive with vibrant celebrations, grand processions, and breathtaking displays of lights, making it a must-visit during the festival.

Key Highlights:

• Deepotsav: Ayodhya hosts the famous “Deepotsav” event, where the banks of the Sarayu River are illuminated with millions of earthen lamps (diyas). This spectacular sight is reminiscent of the welcome Lord Rama received on his return to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile.
• Cultural Programs: The city organizes various cultural programs, including Ram Leela performances, traditional dance, and music performances, which showcase the rich cultural heritage of the region.
• Temple Visits: Visiting the iconic Ram Janmabhoomi temple and other significant temples in Ayodhya is an essential part of the Diwali experience. The temples are beautifully decorated and filled with devotees offering prayers.

2. Experience the Spiritual Aura of Varanasi During Diwali

Varanasi, one of the oldest living cities in the world, offers a unique and spiritual way to celebrate Diwali. The city, located on the banks of the Ganges River, is known for its grand Ganga Aarti, vibrant ghats, and deep-rooted religious traditions.

Key Highlights:

• Ganga Aarti: The Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat during Diwali is a mesmerizing experience. Thousands of lamps are lit and floated on the river, creating a divine atmosphere. The synchronized chants, ringing bells, and the fragrance of incense fill the air with spirituality.
• Dev Deepawali: Varanasi also celebrates Dev Deepawali, which occurs 15 days after Diwali. On this day, all the ghats are illuminated with diyas, and the city celebrates with cultural performances, boat rides on the Ganges, and fireworks.
• Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple: The famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple is especially significant during Diwali in Varanasi city. The temple is beautifully decorated, and devotees gather to offer prayers to Lord Shiva.

3. Explore the Cultural Extravaganza at Lucknow’s Diwali Melas

Lucknow, the capital city of Uttar Pradesh, is known for its rich cultural heritage, and Diwali in Lucknow is celebrated with great enthusiasm. The city hosts various Diwali melas (fairs), which are a perfect blend of tradition, culture, and modern entertainment.

Key Highlights:

• Diwali Melas: The Diwali melas in Lucknow are a major attraction, offering a variety of activities, including shopping, cultural performances, and food stalls. You can find traditional handicrafts, clothing, and jewelry, making these fairs a shopper’s paradise.
• Traditional Music and Dance: The fairs also feature performances of traditional music and dance forms, such as Kathak, which is native to Lucknow. These performances offer a glimpse into the cultural richness of the city.
• Tasting Awadhi Cuisine: While in Lucknow, don’t miss the chance to savor the city’s famous Awadhi cuisine. From kebabs to biryanis, the food stalls at the melas offer a delectable spread of traditional dishes.

4. Enjoy the Traditional Diwali Celebrations in Mathura and Vrindavan

Mathura and Vrindavan, the twin cities associated with Lord Krishna, are known for their vibrant and devotional celebrations during Diwali. These cities offer a blend of spiritual activities and traditional festivities that are unique to the Braj region.

Key Highlights:

• Govardhan Puja: The day after Diwali, Mathura and Vrindavan celebrate Govardhan Puja with great devotion. This festival commemorates Lord Krishna lifting the Govardhan Hill to protect his devotees. The temples are decorated, and large Govardhan mounds made of cow dung are worshipped.
• Annakut Festival: The Annakut Festival, where a variety of vegetarian dishes are offered to Lord Krishna, is another significant celebration in the region. The offerings are later distributed as prasad to devotees.
• Devotional Music and Dance: The temples in Vrindavan, including the famous Banke Bihari Temple, resonate with the sound of bhajans (devotional songs) and kirtans during Diwali. The traditional Raas Leela performances, depicting the life of Lord Krishna, are also a major attraction.

5. Witness the Grand Fireworks Display at Kanpur’s Diwali Celebrations

Kanpur, one of the largest cities in Uttar Pradesh, celebrates Diwali with grandeur and enthusiasm. The city is known for its magnificent fireworks display, which lights up the night sky and adds to the festive spirit.

Key Highlights:

• Fireworks Display: The grand fireworks display in Kanpur is one of the biggest attractions during Diwali. The sky is lit up with colorful fireworks, creating a spectacular visual treat for the residents and visitors alike.
• Shopping at Local Markets: Kanpur’s local markets, such as Naveen Market and Sisamau Bazaar, are bustling with activity during Diwali. These markets offer a wide range of products, including traditional attire, home decor, and sweets, making them perfect for Diwali shopping.
• Lighting of Diyas: The tradition of lighting diyas is observed with great zeal in Kanpur. The entire city is illuminated with earthen lamps, giving it a warm and festive glow.

6. Participate in Traditional Rituals at the Gorakhnath Temple in Gorakhpur

Gorakhpur, located in eastern Uttar Pradesh, is home to the famous Gorakhnath Temple, which is a significant pilgrimage site. The temple’s Diwali celebrations are marked by traditional rituals, spiritual discourses, and festive activities.

Key Highlights:

• Laxmi Puja: Laxmi Puja, dedicated to the goddess of wealth, is performed with great devotion at the Gorakhnath Temple during Diwali. The temple is beautifully decorated, and special prayers are offered to seek the blessings of Goddess Laxmi.
• Annadanam: The temple also organizes Annadanam (food donation) programs during Diwali, where free meals are provided to thousands of devotees and the needy. Participating in this act of charity is considered highly auspicious.
• Spiritual Discourses: Spiritual discourses and bhajans are an integral part of the Diwali celebrations at the temple. These sessions offer insights into the spiritual significance of Diwali and the teachings of Guru Gorakhnath.

7. Experience the Diwali Celebrations in Rampur

Rampur offers a unique way to celebrate Diwali. The city’s Nawabi culture is reflected in its grand celebrations, traditional music, and culinary delights.

Key Highlights:

• Traditional Music: Rampur is known for its classical music heritage, and Diwali is the perfect time to witness performances by local musicians. The traditional ghazals and qawwalis add to the festive atmosphere.
• Cultural Programs: The city hosts various cultural programs during Diwali, showcasing traditional dance forms, poetry recitals, and theatrical performances that reflect the rich cultural heritage of Rampur.

8. Discover the Traditional Diwali Festivities in the Village of Chitrakoot

Chitrakoot, a small town with deep spiritual significance, is an ideal destination for those looking to experience traditional Diwali celebrations away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The town is associated with the exile period of Lord Rama and is a significant pilgrimage site.

Key Highlights:

• Diwali Rituals: Diwali in Chitrakoot is celebrated with traditional rituals and prayers at the various temples in the town. The Ram Ghat on the banks of the Mandakini River is a focal point of the celebrations, with lamps being floated on the river and devotional songs being sung.
• Pilgrimage: Visiting the temples of Chitrakoot, such as Kamadgiri Temple, Hanuman Dhara, and Bharat Milap Temple, during Diwali is a deeply spiritual experience. The temples are beautifully decorated, and special prayers are offered.
• Peaceful Environment: The serene and peaceful environment of Chitrakoot provides a perfect setting for introspection and spiritual rejuvenation during Diwali.

9. Enjoy the Festive Spirit in the City of Allahabad (Prayagraj)

Allahabad, now known as Prayagraj, is a city with a rich history and cultural heritage. The city celebrates Diwali with a blend of traditional rituals, cultural events, and grand illuminations.

Key Highlights:

• Kumbh Mela Grounds: During Diwali, the Kumbh Mela grounds in Prayagraj are illuminated with thousands of lights, creating a mesmerizing sight. The city also organizes cultural events, including classical music and dance performances, on these grounds.
• Visit the Sangam: A visit to the Triveni Sangam, the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers, is a must during Diwali. The site is considered highly auspicious, and taking a dip in the holy waters is believed to cleanse one of sins.
• Shopping and Food: The local markets in Prayagraj, such as Chowk and Civil Lines, are bustling with activity during Diwali. From traditional attire to handicrafts and sweets, these markets offer a wide range of products that are perfect for Diwali shopping.

10. Take Part in the Unique Celebration of Diwali in Aligarh

Aligarh, known for its educational institutions and rich history, has its own unique way of celebrating Diwali. The city’s blend of tradition and modernity is reflected in its festive celebrations.

Key Highlights:

• Aligarh Muslim University (AMU): The Diwali celebrations at AMU are a symbol of communal harmony, where students and faculty from different communities come together to celebrate the festival. The campus is illuminated with lights, and cultural events are organized.
• Shopping for Locks: Aligarh is famous for its lock industry, and during Diwali, the city’s markets are filled with beautifully crafted locks that make for unique Diwali gifts. The locks are considered auspicious and are believed to protect homes from negative energies.
• Traditional Celebrations: The residents of Aligarh celebrate Diwali with traditional rituals, including Laxmi Puja, lighting of diyas, and bursting of crackers. The city’s temples and homes are decorated with lights and flowers, creating a festive atmosphere.

Conclusion

Uttar Pradesh, with its rich cultural heritage and deep-rooted traditions, offers a wide range of activities to celebrate Diwali. From the grand festivities in Ayodhya and Varanasi to the traditional rituals in Mathura, Vrindavan, and Chitrakoot, the state provides a unique and unforgettable Diwali experience. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in spiritual activities, enjoy cultural performances, or simply soak in the festive atmosphere, Uttar Pradesh has something for everyone during Diwali. As you plan your Diwali celebrations, consider exploring these ten destinations in Uttar Pradesh to truly experience the magic of the festival of lights. So, book your bus tickets to Uttar Pradesh on redBus now!