Discover the Best Dussehra destinations in India, ahead of Durga Puja

New Delhi: The festive season in India has started with Raksha Bandhan and Ganesh Chaturthi. Next is Dusshera, which is celebrated to mark the victory of good over evil. It is a significant festival in India and celebrated with enthusiasm and devotion. People celebrate with family and friends, exchange sweets, buy new clothes and visit temples.

Here are 6 places to visit in India to see the festival’s beauty.

1. Mysore

Mysore, located in Karnataka, is known for its spectacular Dusshera celebrations. The city comes alive with thousands of lights illuminating the grand Mysore Palace, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. The highlight of the festivities is a magnificent procession featuring the beautifully adorned idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari, carried on an elephant. Visitors can also enjoy traditional dance performances and music, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Karnataka.

2. Kolkata

Kolkata, located in West Bengal, is famous for its grand Durga Puja celebrations. The city is decorated with colorful pandals (temporary structures) housing elaborately crafted idols of Goddess Durga and her children. The festival is celebrated with great fervor and includes cultural programs, food fairs, and competitions. On the final day, the idols are taken in a grand procession to be immersed in the river, signifying the departure of the goddess to her celestial abode.

3. Vanarasi

Varanasi, also known as Kashi, is a city in Uttar Pradesh. It is considered one of the holiest cities in Hinduism and attracts millions of pilgrims every year. One of the most important festivals celebrated in Varanasi is Dusshera, which marks the victory of good over evil. The festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm and includes the burning of effigies of the demon king Ravana. The city comes alive with colorful processions, music, and dance performances during this time.

4. Kullu

Kullu is a picturesque town in the northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, known for its scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage. The town is famous for its Dusshera celebrations, which are considered one of the grandest in the country. The festival is celebrated for ten days and culminates in a colorful procession of deities, followed by the burning of effigies of Ravana, Meghnath, and Kumbhakarna. The town is filled with music, dance, and joy during this time, attracting tourists from all over the world.

5. Kota

Kota, located in Rajasthan, is known for its grand Dusshera celebration. The festival is celebrated for ten days with great enthusiasm and excitement. The city is decorated with lights and colorful pandals are set up for the idols of Goddess Durga. On the tenth day, a grand procession is taken out with beautifully decorated elephants carrying the idols of Goddess Durga. The highlight of the celebration is the burning of effigies of Ravana, Kumbhakarna, and Meghnath, symbolizing the victory of good over evil. The festival attracts a large number of tourists to Kota every year.

6. Kochi

Kochi is a vibrant city located in Kerala, India. It is renowned for its diverse cultural heritage and significant historical landmarks. One of its most famous festivals is the Dusshera celebration. During this event, the city comes alive with elaborate processions and grand festivities. The highlight of the celebration is the vibrant parade featuring beautifully decorated elephants, traditional dances, and music performances. The Dusshera celebration in Kochi is a spectacular sight that attracts locals and tourists alike, showcasing the rich traditions and cultural vibrancy of the city.