Where to experience Navaratri the best: Top destinations

Navratri, celebrated over nine days, is one of the most prominent festivals in India. While in Kerala, it's more about the ritual of 'Vidyarambham' (education initiation), in the rest of the country, the atmosphere fills with the chants of sacred rituals and pujas, as well as the beats of the dhol, music, and dance. Moreover, Navaratri is also the time when special and unique dishes are cooked at Indian homes. From the colourful Garba nights in Gujarat to the famous Puja pandals of West Bengal, Navaratri is a grand festival that showcases India's diverse cultures. This year, the Navaratri celebrations will last until October 2. Interestingly, the long holidays during Navaratri are also a great time to enjoy a relaxing trip with the family and experience the festival in various cultures. 

Ahmedabad, Kolkata, Mysuru, Delhi, and the Red Fort are significant places where Navaratri is celebrated with great pomp. Giant garba pandals are arranged at Karnavati Club and GMDC Ground in Ahmedabad. Meanwhile, the iconic Dussehra procession in Mysuru is renowned worldwide. Hundreds of spectators also visit the Navaratri celebrations at the Ram Leela ground in New Delhi. 

The garba capital
Ahmedabad, the capital of Gujarat, is also known as the garba capital of India. The streets of Ahmedabad turn into colourful garba pandals during the Navaratri season. Visitors are warmly welcomed into the pandals to enjoy the spirit of Navaratri. Meanwhile, GMDC Ground and Manek Chouk host the most famous garbas in Gujarat. Tourists can explore the city to witness the Navaratri celebrations by taking AMTS buses or autorickshaws. However, strict traffic regulations are in place at this time to ensure public safety and prevent any mishaps.

Durga Puja in Kolkata
From traditional pandals to modern versions, Kolkata celebrates Durga Puja in style. The main pandals in the city are at Santhosh Mitra Square and Kumarthuli Park. These vibrant pandals come alive only after 10 pm, with people dressed in traditional attire swarming to seek the blessings of the Goddess and enjoy the colours of Durga Puja. Metro trains are the easiest mode of transport in Kolkata city, or you could hop into the famous city cabs. However, the best way to truly experience the spirit of the festival is to stroll through the streets. You could easily access the festival spots if you stay at Salt Lake, Park Street or Gariyahat.

Jumbo Dussehra at Mysuru
The royal city of Mysuru celebrates Dussehra with regal charm and exuberance. Cultural performances are arranged at various places as part of the festivities. The illuminated Mysuru Palace exudes regal grandeur while the elephant procession attracts millions of visitors from around the globe. The Mysuru Palace gets drenched in golden illumination against the twilight sky, filling your eyes and hearts with joy. Visitors can take the KSRTC buses or autorickshaws to explore the city. 

Navaratri in Varanasi
The Navaratri festivities in Varanasi are incomplete without the iconic Ram Leela performance on the banks of the Ganga River. The theatre plays a significant role in granting a unique vibe to the Navratri festivities. Meanwhile, tourists who reach Varanasi during Navratri shouldn’t miss the grand Ganga arti at the Dashashwamedh Ghat, which exudes a splendid spiritual charm. You could hire cycle rickshaws to go around the ghats, as vehicles wouldn’t be allowed here. 

Bollywood pandals of Mumbai
Durga Puja pandals hosted by Bollywood stars and celebrities are the highlights of the Navratri festivities in Mumbai. Grand garba nights in Bollywood themes are pretty entertaining. You can book spots at these garba events through BookMyShow and other booking platforms. Tickets for various programs and events are available for Rs 15 up to Rs 4000. Meanwhile, millions of devotees gather at Girgaon Chowpati for the immersion of the idol. The main Navaratri rituals and events take place on September 29, 30, and October 1 and 2. Autorickshaws or taxis can be used to explore the city. 

The Navaratri colours of Delhi
Delhi is a city where people from diverse locations across India reside. The Navaratri celebrations are vibrant and vivid in Delhi, where multiple cultures converge. Ram Leela shows, dandiya nights, garbas and Durga puja pandals could be seen at various spots in Delhi. You could enjoy the traditional Durja Puja festivities of Kolkata at CR Park, while you should head to the Dwarka and Rohini areas for the Gujarati Dandiya nights. Metro trains are the best way to travel around Delhi during the Navratri festivities.