Navaratri, one of India’s most celebrated festivals, is a time of devotion, dance, and dazzling traditions that lasts for nine vibrant nights. In 2025, Navaratri will be celebrated from Wednesday, September 24 to Thursday, October 2.
Whether you want to immerse yourself in spiritual rituals, groove to the beats of Garba, or witness grand processions and temple celebrations, Navaratri offers endless opportunities to explore India’s cultural richness.
If you’re planning to travel during Navaratri 2025, here’s a guide to the best destinations in India where the festival comes alive in all its glory.
1.Ahmedabad, Gujarat – The Heart of Garba Nights
When it comes to Navaratri, Gujarat is the undisputed star. Ahmedabad hosts some of the largest Garba and Dandiya Raas events in the world, attracting locals and tourists alike. Dance arenas light up with colorful costumes, traditional music, and devotional energy.
Highlights:
- Attend Garba nights at the GMDC ground, considered the biggest in India.
- Explore the city’s beautifully decorated temples like Jagannath Temple.
- Shop for traditional chaniya cholis and kediyus at Law Garden Market.
Travel Tip: Book your passes for popular Garba venues well in advance. Hotels fill up quickly, so plan your stay early.
2. Vadodara, Gujarat – Cultural Capital of Navaratri
Vadodara (Baroda) takes Navaratri to another level with a mix of traditional and modern celebrations. The United Way Garba event here is among the largest community gatherings during Navaratri.
Highlights:
- Witness thousands of people dancing in perfect rhythm at one of the grandest Garba grounds.
- Visit Kirti Mandir and Laxmi Vilas Palace, which often showcase special decorations during the festival.</li
- Enjoy local Gujarati cuisine, especially fafda-jalebi and khaman.
Travel Tip: Try to participate in smaller, community-led Garbas too, where the celebrations feel more intimate and traditional.
3. Kolkata, West Bengal – Navaratri Meets Durga Puja
In Kolkata, Navaratri overlaps with Durga Puja, the city’s biggest festival. The streets turn into a sea of people as elaborate pandals (temporary structures) are set up to honor Goddess Durga.
Highlights:
- Marvel at stunning pandal artistry and idol craftsmanship.
- Witness cultural performances, music, and dance shows across the city.
- Taste authentic Bengali sweets like sandesh, rasgulla, and mishti doi.
Travel Tip: Pandal hopping at night is a must. Hire a local guide or join a group tour to cover the most famous pandals.
4. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh – Spiritual Bliss on the Ghats
For those seeking a deeply spiritual Navaratri experience, Varanasi is unmatched. The holy city becomes a hub of devotional activities, with temples glowing in vibrant lights and chants echoing through the ghats.
Highlights:
- Witness the grand Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat during Navaratri.
- Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple, a central site of worship during this time.
- Explore the Ramnagar Ramlila, a 200-year-old theatrical enactment of the Ramayana that coincides with Navaratri.
Travel Tip: The city gets crowded during the festival, so consider staying near Assi Ghat for easier access to temples and rituals.
5. Mysuru, Karnataka – The Royal Dasara Festival
In Karnataka, Navaratri is celebrated as Dasara, with Mysuru at the epicenter. The Mysore Palace becomes a spectacle of lights and grandeur, attracting thousands of tourists every year.
Highlights:
- Watch the majestic Jumbo Savari (elephant procession) on Vijayadashami.
- Attend cultural performances, including Carnatic music, folk dances, and drama.
- Explore illuminated streets, markets, and the beautifully decorated palace.
Travel Tip: Tickets for palace events sell fast, so plan your itinerary early. Don’t miss Mysore’s famous silk sarees and sandalwood souvenirs.
6. Delhi – A Fusion of Traditions
In the capital city, Navaratri is celebrated with enthusiasm through Ramlila performances and Durga Puja pandals. From spiritual rituals to festive food stalls, Delhi offers a mix of cultural flavors.
Highlights:
- Attend Ramlila shows at iconic venues like Red Fort grounds.
- Visit famous Durga Puja pandals in Chittaranjan Park.
- Relish Navaratri-special food, including vrat (fasting) delicacies.
Travel Tip: Explore both Old Delhi and South Delhi to experience the full spectrum of Navaratri festivities.
7. Mumbai, Maharashtra – Bollywood-Style Dandiya Nights
Mumbai gives Navaratri a glamorous twist with celebrity-hosted Dandiya and Garba nights. The city’s temples and community centers also host devotional events.
Highlights:
- Attend star-studded Garba events at Goregaon, Borivali, and Thane.
- Visit iconic temples like Siddhivinayak and Mumbadevi during Navaratri.
- Shop for festival wear and jewelry at Crawford Market and Colaba Causeway.
Travel Tip: If you want a more traditional feel, attend smaller Gujarati community events instead of commercial Garba nights.
8. Madurai, Tamil Nadu – Divine Energy of South India
In Tamil Nadu, Navaratri is celebrated as Golu, where families and temples display beautiful arrangements of dolls symbolizing mythology and culture. Madurai, with its famous Meenakshi Amman Temple, is an incredible place to experience it.
Highlights:
- Explore stunning Golu displays in homes and temples.
- Witness cultural performances organized inside temple premises.
- Discover South Indian prasadam and festive delicacies.
Travel Tip: Respect temple customs and dress modestly. Combine your trip with a visit to Rameswaram, just a few hours away.
9. Chennai, Tamil Nadu – Navaratri Golu and Music
Chennai celebrates Navaratri with a cultural focus, combining devotion, classical music, and Golu displays.
Highlights:
- Attend Carnatic music concerts dedicated to Goddess Durga.
- Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple and Parthasarathy Temple for special Navaratri poojas.
- Experience the tradition of visiting households to view Golu and exchange gifts.
Travel Tip: Stay near Mylapore or T. Nagar to enjoy temple celebrations and shopping.
Travel Tips for Navaratri 2025
- Book Early: Popular destinations like Gujarat and Mysuru witness a huge tourist influx. Secure your accommodation and event passes in advance.
- Dress Traditionally: Traditional attire like sarees, lehengas, and kurtas not only enhance the festive vibe but also help you blend into local culture.
- Respect Customs: Each state has unique traditions. Be mindful of local rituals and dress codes, especially inside temples.
- Stay Hydrated & Energized: With hours of dancing, temple visits, and pandal hopping, keep snacks and water handy.
- Capture Memories: Navaratri is a photographer’s delight with vibrant colors, grand processions, and decorated temples.
Final Thoughts
Navaratri 2025 is not just a festival—it’s an experience of India’s spiritual devotion, cultural diversity, and celebratory spirit. From the rhythmic Garba nights of Gujarat to the royal processions of Mysuru and the artistic grandeur of Kolkata’s Durga Puja, every region has its unique way of honoring the Goddess.
So pack your bags, mark your calendar, and get ready to immerse yourself in nine nights of joy, devotion, and unforgettable travel experiences across India.
