Altitude Vibes
Festival of Lights: Diwali in India and Beyond
Diwali—celebrated across India and the global diaspora—lands on Monday, 20 October 2025. Expect five days of lamps, sweets, family visits and temple rituals, with the main Lakshmi Puja on the 20th. Many cities outside India mark the occasion earlier with community festivals and light-ups.
Where to feel the glow (near and far)
Jaipur, India — The Pink City lit in gold
Markets on MI Road and Johari Bazaar string up fairy lights and marigolds; Hawa Mahal glows after dusk. Many hotels run special thali menus and diya-lighting rituals—book in advance.
Delhi, India — Big-city Diwali with temple trails
From Bangla Sahib to Akshardham, Delhi combines grand aartis with sprawling sweet markets (mithai). Be mindful that air quality can dip around and after Diwali due to fireworks and seasonal conditions—check local AQI, consider N95/FFP2 masks, and plan indoor time if sensitive.
London, UK — Diwali on the Square (free, family-friendly)
Trafalgar Square hosts a major city celebration on Sunday, 12 October 2025 (2–8 pm): live music and dance, food stalls, and community performances—great if you want the spirit of Diwali without a long-haul flight.
Leicester, UK — Historic Golden Mile lights (scaled back in 2025)
Traditionally one of the largest Diwali celebrations outside India, Leicester’s Golden Mile light-up is iconic. Note that 2025 festivities are significantly reduced, so check council updates before you go.
Singapore — Little India Deepavali Light-Up
Serangoon Road shines nightly through the season, with arches, street decorations and pop-up cultural events starting from early September (light-up nightly from 6 Sept 2025). Expect weekend crowds and photo ops galore.
What to eat (and gift)
- Mithai & snacks: Kaju katli (cashew fudge), motichoor laddoo, jalebi; savouries like chivda and mathri.
- Thali or festive set menus: Many hotels and upscale restaurants run Diwali plates—reserve early.
- Gifting: Sweets boxes, dry fruits, artisanal candles, or eco-friendly clay diyas.
How to do Diwali respectfully
- Dress & temples: Modest clothing (shoulders/legs covered), remove shoes before entering, keep voices low. Avoid flash photography; always ask before filming rituals.
- Fireworks & animals: Keep distance, avoid handling firecrackers, and consider ear protection—particularly for children.
- Eco-friendly choices: Choose clay diyas over plastic lights; avoid sky lanterns where restricted.
Quick-plan checklist
- Dates: Main Diwali day is Mon 20 Oct 2025; diaspora events can precede this by 1–2 weeks.
- Bookings: Restaurants and hotels sell out—reserve early for festive menus and cultural shows.
- Mobility: Expect traffic surges around temple districts at dusk—walk or use metro where possible.
- Health: If sensitive to smoke, monitor AQI and plan indoor time; carry saline spray or masks if needed.
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