India is known for its vibrant culture, and its festivals are a true reflection of the country’s diversity and traditions. Among these festivals, Dasara (or Dussehra) holds a special place as it symbolizes the triumph of good over evil. Celebrated with grandeur and enthusiasm across different parts of the country. Dussehra marks the victory of Lord Rama over Ravana and the culmination of the nine-day Navratri festival. Each region in India has its own unique way of celebrating this auspicious occasion, making it an excellent time for tourists to explore the festive spirit. If you’re planning a Best Places to Visit in India for Dussehra, here are some of the best places to experience the grandeur of the festival.
1. Mysore: The Royal Dussehra Celebration
Mysore, located in the state of Karnataka, is one of the top destinations to witness a grand Dussehra celebration. Known as Mysuru Dasara, this celebration dates back to the times of the Wadiyar dynasty and has been an essential part of the region’s cultural identity.
During this festival, the Mysore Palace is illuminated with over 100,000 lights, transforming the city into a magical wonderland. The highlight of the Mysuru Dussehra is the grand procession featuring beautifully decorated elephants, royal chariots, and vibrant folk performances. Visitors can also witness the Jamboo Savari, where a majestic elephant carries the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari through the streets of Mysore.
In addition to the processions, various cultural events, including music concerts, dance performances, and traditional arts and crafts exhibitions, are held throughout the city. If you’re looking for a royal celebration of Dasara, Mysore should be at the top of your list.
2. Kullu: A Unique Blend of Culture and Nature
Located in the picturesque Himalayan region of Himachal Pradesh, Kullu offers a distinctive Dussehra experience. Unlike other parts of India where Dussehra lasts for a day, the Kullu Dussehra festivities continue for a week. This extended celebration is a blend of Hindu mythology, local traditions, and tribal culture.
The Kullu Dussehra begins with a procession of deities from nearby villages, who gather at the Dhalpur Maidan. Thousands of devotees participate in this grand procession, carrying beautifully decorated idols of local deities. One of the unique aspects of the Kullu Dussehra is that it does not include the effigy burning of Ravana. Instead, the festival focuses on community gatherings, cultural performances, and the display of traditional Himachali folk dances.
Surrounded by the beauty of the Himalayan hills, Kullu becomes a vibrant hub of festivities and spirituality during this period. For those seeking a serene yet culturally rich Dussehra, Kullu is the perfect destination.
3. Varanasi: Spiritual Dussehra by the Ganges
In addition to the Ramlila, the city is known for its Ganga Aarti, a daily evening ritual performed at the ghats of the Ganga River. During Dasara, the Ganga Aarti takes on an even more spiritual and festive atmosphere, attracting thousands of pilgrims and tourists alike. Varanasi offers a unique combination of spirituality and cultural festivities during Dasara.
4. Kolkata: Durga Puja and Dussehra Extravaganza
In West Bengal, the Dussehra festivities coincide with the grand Durga Puja celebrations. Making Kolkata one of the most vibrant places to be during this time. Durga Puja is a celebration of the victory of Goddess Durga over the buffalo demon Mahishasura and is marked by elaborate rituals, pandal hopping, and artistic displays.One of the great places to Places to Visit in India for Dussehra
The energy and enthusiasm in Kolkata during Durga Puja and Dussehra are unparalleled. It’s a city where tradition meets creativity, and every street corner becomes a celebration of art, culture, and devotion.
5. Delhi: The Capital’s Grand Ramlila and Effigy Burning
In the capital city of Delhi, Dussehra is celebrated with great pomp and show. The city’s famous Ramlila Maidan hosts some of the largest Ramlila performances in the country, drawing huge crowds from all over.
One of the main attractions in Delhi during Dussehra is the burning of giant effigies of Ravana, Meghnath, and Kumbhkaran. These effigies are filled with fireworks and set ablaze, symbolizing the victory of good over evil. The burning of the effigies is a spectacular sight, accompanied by loud cheers, music, and fireworks.
Red Fort and India Gate are key locations where large-scale celebrations take place. In addition to the Ramlila performances and effigy burnings, Delhi also hosts various cultural events, fairs, and food festivals during this time. The city’s cosmopolitan nature allows for a blend of traditional and modern Dussehra festivities, making it a perfect destination for those looking to experience a dynamic Dussehra celebration.
6. Ahmedabad: Navratri and Garba Nights
The city comes alive with Garba dance performances held in open grounds. Where thousands of people, dressed in traditional attire, gather to dance around an idol of Goddess Durga. The rhythm of the Garba, the sound of the dandiya sticks, and the vibrant energy of the participants make Ahmedabad one of the nice Places to Visit in India for Dussehra.
In addition to the dance performances, the city also hosts a variety of cultural programs, food stalls, and fairs, giving visitors a taste of Gujarati culture. The Dussehra celebrations in Ahmedabad are a fusion of religious devotion and cultural exuberance.
7. Jaipur: Royal Celebrations in the Pink City
The Pink City of Jaipur offers a royal touch to the Dussehra celebrations with its grand processions and elaborate rituals. The city, known for its magnificent palaces and forts, transforms into a hub of festivities during this time. The Dussehra festival in Jaipur includes large processions with elephants, horses, camels, and royal chariots, symbolizing the city’s rich cultural heritage.
At the Amber Fort, visitors can witness a spectacular Dussehra procession that recreates the grandeur of the Rajput era. The streets of Jaipur are adorned with colorful decorations, and various cultural events are held across the city, including traditional dance performances, puja rituals, and folk music.
For those who want to experience a royal and majestic Dussehra. Jaipur offers the perfect blend of tradition, culture, and grandeur.one of the Best Places to Visit in India for Dussehra
8. Bastar: Tribal Dussehra in Chhattisgarh
For a completely different experience, head to Bastar in Chhattisgarh. Where the Dasara festival is celebrated in a unique tribal way. The Bastar Dussehra is one of the longest-running festivals. Which last for over 75 days, and is deeply rooted in the tribal culture of the region.
Visitors to Bastar during Dasara can witness folk dances, tribal music that make this celebration so unique. It is a perfect destination for those who want to explore the lesser-known cultural traditions of India.
