Diwali
Photo: NinadMysuru, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Diwali (Hindi: दिवाली Divālī) or Deepavali (Sanskrit: दीपावलि Dīpāvali) is one of the most vibrant and widely celebrated events across large swathes of South Asia and also in many other parts of the world. Also called the Festival of Lights, it offers a spectacular window into local culture for travellers: cities glow with millions of oil lamps and colourful lanterns, families gather for rituals and feasts, and streets come alive with fireworks, music, and festive markets. The celebration usually falls between late October and mid‑November, depending on the lunar calendar, and spans several days—each with its own customs and regional variations. Whether you’re wandering through illuminated bazaars, joining community celebrations, or sampling seasonal sweets, Diwali is one of the most atmospheric times to experience the subcontinent.
Diwali is an official public holiday in Fiji, Guyana, India, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago and some states in the United States. Other countries where it is vividly celebrated include parts of Bangladesh, Canada, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Jamaica, Kenya, South Africa, Tanzania, Thailand and the United Kingdom.
It is observed by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and some Buddhists.
The festival has been listed as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage as a part of Hinduism since December 2025.
UnderstandDiwali (Hindi: दिवाली Divālī), also called Deepavali (Sanskrit: दीपावलि Dīpāvali) or Deepotsava (Sanskrit: दीपोत्सव Dīpotsava), is one of the most important and widely celebrated festivals across India and the broader…
Schedules and ritualsHindu Diwali typically unfolds over five days, though the emphasis and timing vary across regions.
Destinations
SeeDiwali reshapes the visual landscape of South Asia, turning entire cities and villages into glowing panoramas of light.
DoDiwali is a festival that invites participation rather than passive observation, and travellers who join in even small rituals often find the experience deeply memorable.
BuyDiwali is one of the best times of the year for shopping across South Asia, and travellers will find markets buzzing with colour, sound, and festive energy.
EatFood is one of the most joyful parts of Diwali, and travellers will quickly discover that the festival is celebrated as much through flavours as through lights.
DrinkDiwali is not traditionally associated with alcohol, and in many Hindu, Jain, and Sikh households the festival is observed without drinking.
Stay safeDiwali is generally a welcoming and joyful time to travel, but the festival also brings crowds, fireworks, and busy streets, so a bit of caution goes a long way.
RespectDiwali is a deeply meaningful festival for millions of people across South Asia, and travellers who approach it with sensitivity will find themselves warmly welcomed.
Sources and licences
- Guide text adapted from the Wikivoyage article "Diwali" by its contributors, available under CC BY-SA 4.0. Read on Wikivoyage · Contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
- Photo: NinadMysuru, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons