Diwali is a spectacular Indian festival where light is of key importance. Witness India’s astonishing architecture when lit from all angles by candles, earthen lamps and festive lights. You will see a family home authentically decorated to reflect the festival. Watch as restaurants and shops follow suit, with bright and colourful interiors. Experience the delight of Diwali as you taste delicious dishes and hear all about the cultural significance of the festival and some of the Hindu beliefs underpinning the celebration.
The reason for so many lights is to symbolise the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. The festival lasts for five days, though the day on which the lamps are lit differs throughout the country. As well as Hindus, the festival is also celebrated by Jains, Sikhs and Newar Buddhists, each with a different set of stories. This makes the beautiful lights a mark of harmony between India’s religious communities.
Falling in the autumn months, Diwali is held after the main harvests and before the onset of the monsoon. In this way, Diwali is also partly a harvest festival, which means you can expect to be well fed. Taste locally-grown Indian produce as you explore the sparkling city and soak up the festive cheer.