This Navratri, experience the magic of India like never before. Across the country, every region celebrates the nine nights with its own cultural flavour—be it the electrifying Garba, divine pandal hopping, or grand processions. From Gujarat’s colourful dance floors to West Bengal’s artistic pandals, every destination brings you closer to the heart of Indian tradition.
In 2025, Navratri will be celebrated from 22 September to 2 October, and if you’re planning to travel, here are five cities that promise an unforgettable festive journey. Get ready to witness devotion, art, music, dance, and food, all under the festive lights of Navratri.
5. Kullu, Himachal Pradesh
For a Himalayan twist to Navratri, Kullu Dussehra is the place to be. Unlike other states, celebrations here start when the rest of India concludes. The highlight is the grand Rath Yatra of Lord Raghunath, accompanied by deities from surrounding villages, symbolizing unity and faith. The breathtaking valleys, traditional folk dances, and devotional songs make this celebration both cultural and spiritual.
- Places to Visit: Dhalpur Maidan, Kala Kendra
- Things to Do: Attend Rath Yatra, enjoy folk performances, shop handicrafts, and soak in Himachal’s serene beauty.
4. Karnataka (Mysuru)
Navratri here is celebrated as the Mysuru Dasara, a royal extravaganza. The highlight is the Jumbo Savari procession, where Goddess Chamundeshwari’s idol is paraded on a decorated elephant. The illuminated Mysore Palace, glowing with over 100,000 lights, looks like something out of a fairy tale. With cultural performances, folk dances, and temple rituals, Mysuru offers a truly regal Navratri experience.
- Places to Visit: Mysore Palace, Chamundi Hills, Brindavan Gardens, Gombe Habba displays
- Things to Do: Watch Jumbo Savari, explore folk shows, taste Karnataka’s festive food, and shop for sandalwood and silk.
3. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
If you seek a more spiritual side of Navratri, Varanasi is the perfect choice. The holy ghats along the Ganga host vibrant Garba and Dandiya performances, with the divine backdrop of chanting and temple bells. The mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat during Navratri is an experience that stays with you forever. The city beautifully blends festive energy with deep devotion to Goddess Durga.
- Places to Visit: Sarnath, Durgakund, Chandraghanta Gali, Jaitpura, Kashi Vishwanath Temple
- Things to Do: Take part in Ganga Aarti, explore the ghats, enjoy boat rides, taste Banarasi paan and street food, and shop for Banarasi sarees.
2. West Bengal
When it comes to Durga Puja, West Bengal—especially Kolkata—takes the lead. Streets glow with elaborate pandals, each crafted with unique artistic themes. The sound of dhaak drums, the graceful Dhunuchi dance, and the joyous Sindoor Khela make this festival an unmatched experience. Beyond Kolkata, towns like Siliguri and Howrah also host dazzling celebrations, blending devotion with cultural richness.
- Places to Visit: Kolkata, Howrah, Birbhum, Siliguri, Durgapur
- Things to Do: Pandal hopping, enjoying bhog prasad, tasting street food, attending Sindoor Khela, and joining local aartis.
1. Gujarat
Known as the soul of Navratri, Gujarat transforms into a massive celebration hub with Garba and Dandiya nights filling every corner. Dressed in vibrant Ghagra Cholis and Kediyas, people dance the night away to traditional beats. The International Garba Festival in Ahmedabad is a must-visit, attracting participants from around the world. Vadodara and Rajkot also host some of the most vibrant gatherings, making the state a cultural powerhouse during Navratri.
- Places to Visit: Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Rajkot, Kutch, Bhadra Fort
- Things to Do: Join Garba nights, shop traditional attire, relish Gujarati snacks like fafda-jalebi, and attend Durga aarti.
✨ Each of these five cities offers something unique—whether it’s the beats of Garba, the artistry of Durga pandals, or the grandeur of royal processions. No matter where you go, Navratri 2025 promises a journey of devotion, celebration, and unforgettable memories.
Also Read: Navratri 2025: Do Navratri shopping at 5 markets in Delhi
About the Author:
Harshit Raj
