Review of Seven Places in India Worth Visiting During Diwali Festival
Read more
Aaj Tak
www.aajtak.in

Review of Seven Places in India Worth Visiting During Diwali Festival

As Diwali approaches, an atmosphere of joy, decorations, and light spreads across the country. Some homes are adorned with garlands, while markets and historical buildings transform with colorful lights. However, there are places in India where the Diwali celebration takes on a completely different character; for instance, thousands of lamps shine on the banks of the Ganges, accompanied by grand ceremonies worshipping Goddess Kali.

The period from October to November is considered favorable for travel. If you are planning a trip with family or friends for Diwali, consider including these seven Indian destinations in your itinerary.

Places to Visit During Diwali

In Ayodhya, Diwali is closely associated with the return of Lord Rama. During Dipotsav, lights are lit along the banks of the Sarayu River and in many parts of the city. A large number of people gather at Ram Ki Paidi to witness the magnificent decorations and rows of lamps.

The spectacle of Diwali in Varanasi is truly breathtaking. Diyas are lit on the banks of the Ganges, and temples are decorated with flowers. The atmosphere becomes reverent during the evening Ganga Aarti. Dev Diwali, celebrated after Diwali, is of particular interest, when millions of lamps are lit on the riverbanks.

In Jaipur, the markets are vibrant during Diwali. The area around Johari Bazaar, Bapu Bazaar, and Hawa Mahal is illuminated. Here, one can not only shop but also enjoy traditional Rajasthani cuisine and sweets.

The beauty of the Golden Temple in Amritsar is especially impressive on Diwali day. The entire Gurudwara shines with lights, and its reflection in the pond looks very picturesque. Furthermore, Amritsar celebrates Prisoners' Day, which holds special significance in Sikh faith.

In Kolkata, Diwali is accompanied by the celebration of Kali Puja. Grand pavilions are erected in the city to worship Goddess Kali, and temples and streets are decorated. Experiencing Kali Puja and getting acquainted with Bengali culture can make a Diwali trip unforgettable.

Udaipur, known for its lakes and palaces, glows with lights during Diwali. A walk around Lake Pichola, the Citadel, and the old markets brings special pleasure. It is an ideal place for those who wish to combine the festival with tranquility and beautiful scenery.

In Delhi, the festive atmosphere is felt in both markets and residential areas. In places like Chandni Chowk, Connaught Place, and Lajpat Nagar, there is a special buzz of shopping. Here, one can enjoy sweets, decorative items, and brightly lit streets.

A trip to these places during Diwali will allow you not only to admire beautiful sights but also to get closer to the diverse traditions and culture of India.

Similar stories

Six Scenic Destinations in India for a Honeymoon
Read more
www.aajtak.in

Six Scenic Destinations in India for a Honeymoon

With the start of the wedding season in India, which begins in November, many couples are planning a trip as their honeymoon. Some wish to spend time in quiet mountain valleys, while others prefer to enjoy sunsets on the seashore. Time spent with a partner after the wedding rush is always special.

If your wedding is planned for November and you are looking for a beautiful place for a honeymoon, India offers many wonderful options. Here you can visit places that combine mountains, sea, lakes, and greenery.

Below are six romantic places in India where you can go after the wedding.

Goa is a good choice to visit in November. Beautiful beaches, pleasant weather, and vibrant markets can make the honeymoon unforgettable. You can walk on the beach with your partner, admire the sunset, and enjoy delicious food and the atmosphere in seaside cafes.

What to see: Baga Beach, Anjuna Beach, Old Goa churches, and local markets.

If you want to spend a few days in seclusion after the wedding hustle, Munnar is worth choosing. Sprawling tea plantations, green hills, and magnificent natural landscapes bring peace of mind. Walks along mountain roads and spending time in nature with your partner can make your trip romantic.

What to see: Tea plantations, Mattupetty Dam, and Eravikulam National Park.

Udaipur is known for its beautiful palaces, lakes, and historical buildings, and it is perfect for couples. If you want to experience staying in a royal city with stunning views during your honeymoon, this place is for you. Here you can take boat rides on the lake with your partner and stroll through the streets of the old town. Additionally, you can take many beautiful photos that will forever remember your honeymoon.

What to see: Citadel, Pichola Lake, Fateh Sagar Lake, and Jagdish Temple.

Puducherry is ideal for couples who love quiet beaches, beautiful buildings, and cafes. The French style of the streets and colorful houses create a special atmosphere. You can walk along Promenade Beach with your partner and wander through the picturesque streets of the White Town.

What to see: Promenade Beach, White Town, French Quarter, and Auroville.

If you are looking for peaceful moments amidst the mountains while also wanting a budget option, you can go to Rishikesh. There are many opportunities to walk along the Ganges River, admire the mountain scenery, and relax in quiet cafes. Couples who love adventure can engage in various activities.

What to see: Ram Jhula, Ganges embankments, Beatles Ashram, and nearby natural attractions.

For those who want to spend their honeymoon away from the crowds, Kumarakom is suitable. Here you can see beautiful landscapes with lakes, coconut palms, and greenery. A boat ride on the inland waters with your partner and time spent in nature will make this trip unforgettable.

What to see: Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, and surrounding inland water areas.

During the November wedding season, the number of tourists may increase in popular spots. Therefore, it is recommended to book hotels and tickets in advance. It is also advisable to choose a location according to your preferences and be sure to check the weather information to avoid any problems during your trip.

Five Lesser-Known Beautiful Places in India for a Relaxing Getaway Instead of Goa and Manali
Read more
www.aajtak.in

Five Lesser-Known Beautiful Places in India for a Relaxing Getaway Instead of Goa and Manali

If you love to travel and are tired of visiting popular destinations like Goa, Jaipur, or Manali, you might want to try something completely different. India has many picturesque places that few people know about, but whose natural beauty, historical structures, and unique culture can capture your heart.

You can see snow-capped mountains, ocean waves, traces of ancient civilizations, or a scenic island in the middle of a river. If you want to explore something new while avoiding crowds on your next vacation, be sure to include these five Indian destinations in your travel list.

Lesser-Known Tourist Spots in India:

Tawang (Arunachal Pradesh state)

If you love mountains and want to get away from crowded places like Shimla or Manali, Tawang is worth visiting. This beautiful town, located in Arunachal Pradesh, is known for its snow-capped peaks, quiet lakes, and lush valleys. Its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere attract tourists.

One of Tawang's most prominent attractions is a famous Buddhist monastery, valued for its religious and historical significance. By visiting this place, you can not only enjoy magnificent mountain landscapes but also get closer to Buddhist culture. However, before traveling, it is necessary to check information regarding weather, road conditions, and required permits.

Gokarna (Karnataka state)

If you prefer a beach holiday but want to avoid the hustle and bustle of Goa, Gokarna could be the perfect choice. Located in Karnataka, this region is famous for its beautiful beaches, calm atmosphere, and natural scenery. Initially considered primarily a religious site, it is now becoming popular among those seeking a relaxing vacation.

Here, you can spend time by the sea, go trekking on scenic trails, and enjoy food at local cafes. The peaceful ambiance and stunning sea views make this place ideal for a trip with friends or a partner.

Dholavira (Gujarat state)

If you are interested in history and ancient civilizations, be sure to visit Dholavira, located in Kutch, Gujarat state. It is a crucial archaeological monument of the Indus Valley civilization and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you can see the remains of the Harappan civilization dating back thousands of years.

A distinctive feature of Dholavira is its ancient urban planning system and impressive water harvesting technology. These ruins suggest how skilled the people of that time were in water resource management and city planning. During your trip, you can also plan to visit White Rann in Kutch and other nearby natural sites. Before traveling, you should gather information about the weather and available infrastructure.

Majuli (Assam state)

If you want to experience local culture up close while surrounded by nature, Majuli in Assam can offer a unique experience. This island in the Brahmaputra River is famous for its Vaishnavite traditions, monasteries, and traditional art. It provides an opportunity to learn about the culture and way of life of Assam.

The main features of Majuli are the traditional masks made there and the colorful cultural festivals. Furthermore, the beautiful views around the river and the lifestyle of the locals attract tourists. If you want to visit a place where you can not only walk around but also learn something, include Majuli in your travel list. Since a ferry may be required to arrive, be sure to check its availability and schedule before the trip.

Mandu (Madhya Pradesh state)

If you want to combine history, architecture, and beautiful natural landscapes, you should go to Mandu, Madhya Pradesh state. Here, you can explore ancient palaces, mosques, baolis, and historic buildings. The stories and legends associated with these places make a trip to Mandu special.

During the monsoon season, the greenery around Mandu intensifies, making the view incredibly beautiful. At this time of year, you can see many stunning sights, which is perfect for photography enthusiasts. The historical structures and peaceful atmosphere make Mandu an excellent place to visit with friends, family, or a partner.

How to decorate your home for Diwali with old things without extra costs: from glass jars to scarves
Read more
www.aajtak.in

How to decorate your home for Diwali with old things without extra costs: from glass jars to scarves

As Diwali approaches, preparations begin for the holiday, which include both cleaning and decorating. People strive to give new life to walls and empty corners, spending money on new curtains, cushion covers, lighting, and expensive decorative items. However, the pursuit of shopping often leads to an increased budget. It is worth remembering that some old items you already have at home can give your living space a festive look that will draw admiration from others, without requiring large financial investments or buying many goods from the store.

Old glass jars, unused scarves, last year's clay lamps, and useless decorative trays can be refreshed with a little effort. Even old cushion covers and sheets can transform a room if used correctly. Therefore, if you want to make your home beautiful for this Diwali with minimal expenses, be sure to try these five simple ideas.

  1. Creating shimmering lighting from empty glass jars: Homes often accumulate empty glass jars from jam, jelly, or other products that people discard as useless. Instead of throwing them away or storing them, they can be used in Diwali decor. First, wash and dry the jar thoroughly. Then, place small LED fairy lights inside. Optionally, you can wrap the jar with colored ribbon or gold trim. These finished jars should be placed on the central table, by the window, or in the entrance area of the house. At night, when they light up, every corner of the house will look beautiful. Thus, you can create magnificent lighting without buying a new lamp or an expensive decorative item. For safety, it is recommended to use only LED bulbs instead of real burning candles.

  2. Decorating tables and walls with old scarves: In your closet, there is surely a scarf that you no longer wear, but whose color and design are still good. This scarf can serve as decoration for your home for Diwali. You can lay it out on the central table, creating a beautiful runner element. If the scarf is slightly shiny or has embroidery, it can make the decor even more special. You can also decorate a wall with an old scarf or sari. Around it, you can place garlands and add floral decorations at the bottom. Red, yellow, orange, and gold colors pair perfectly with the festive atmosphere. This will give the home a new look, and you won't have to spend separately on curtains or wall decor.

  3. Updating old lamps with a new color: Instead of buying new lamps every Diwali, it is worth inspecting the old ones you have at home. If they are in good condition, they can be cleaned and reused. With a small amount of paint and creativity, old lamps can look like new. You can apply patterns in red, yellow, or gold on the exterior of the lamp. You can also add small flowers, dots, or beautiful patterns around the edges. They should be placed in the prayer area, on the balcony, or near the main entrance of the house. Placing lamps of different colors together with identical ones will make the decor even more attractive. It is important not to paint the interior part of the lamp where the oil and wick are located.

  4. Turning an old tray into a chic decorative element: An old wooden, glass, or metal tray lying around the house does not necessarily have to be used only for storage. With a little decoration, it can be turned into a beautiful interior piece. First, clean the tray thoroughly. Then, place marigolds, a few decorative beads, and LED tea lights in it. If you have small decorative bowls or old artificial flowers, you can include those too. The finished tray can be placed on the central table, side table, or in the prayer area. This allows you to decorate even an empty corner. If the color of the tray has faded, it can be cleaned or given a new look depending on its contents. Thus, an old item can become part of home decor instead of being thrown away.

  5. Changing the look of the room with old cushion covers and sheets: To give the living room a new look for Diwali, there is no need to change the sofa or bed. Sometimes it is enough to use cushion covers and sheets correctly to completely change the room's decor. Take out old but clean and intact cushion covers from home and decorate the sofa using combinations of different colors. If you have a colorful sheet or beautiful fabric, you can use it as a throw over the sofa. Cushions in red, yellow, or gold shades look good on a light sofa. Whereas if the room already has dark tones, light cushions can balance the decor. It should be remembered that instead of using many colors and designs, it is better to choose a combination of two or three colors. This will allow the room to look clean and ready for the holiday without unnecessary expenses.

Popular