Best Places in India to See Dussehra Celebration

Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is one of India’s most vibrant and symbolic festivals, marking the triumph of good over evil. Celebrated with immense devotion, cultural performances, and spectacular processions, it brings together mythology, art, and community spirit. Across the country, the festival takes on unique local flavours, from grand Ramlila enactments and effigy burnings in North India to regal processions in the South and East. Each region showcases its traditions, making Dussehra not just a festival but a journey through India’s diverse heritage.

Here are the 10 best places in India to witness the most remarkable Dussehra celebrations

1. Mysuru, Karnataka
2. Kolkata, West Bengal
3. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
4. Kullu, Himachal Pradesh
5. Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh
6. Ahmedabad, Gujarat
7. Delhi
8. Bastar, Chhattisgarh
9. Kota, Rajasthan

Mysuru, Karnataka

Mysuru in Karnataka is world-famous for its grand and regal Dussehra celebrations, known locally as Mysuru Dasara. This 400-year-old tradition, started by the Wadiyar kings, transforms the city into a stage of culture, devotion, and pageantry. The highlight is the spectacular procession on Vijayadashami, where the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari is carried on a golden howdah atop a decorated elephant, accompanied by folk dancers, musicians, and tableaux. The Mysore Palace glitters with nearly one lakh lights, creating a sight that leaves visitors spellbound.

Top Attraction:

• Jumbo Savari (Elephant Procession) – The grand finale of Dussehra, where Goddess Chamundeshwari’s idol is carried in a golden howdah atop a caparisoned elephant, accompanied by traditional music, dance troupes, and tableaux.
• Illumination of Mysore Palace – The iconic Mysore Palace is lit up with nearly 100,000 bulbs every evening, offering a breathtaking view that draws thousands of visitors.
• Cultural Performances at Palace Grounds – Folk dances, music concerts, and theatre performances showcasing Karnataka’s rich cultural heritage are organised throughout the 10-day festival.
• Dasara Exhibition & Torchlight Parade – A lively fair with stalls, rides, local crafts, and food, capped off by a spectacular torchlight parade and fireworks on the final day.

Where to stay in Mysuru:

Club Mahindra Golden Landmark Resort in Mysuru offers a serene retreat surrounded by lush greenery, close to the city’s royal heritage. This resort in Mysuru provides spacious rooms, modern amenities, and warm hospitality for a comfortable family stay. Its convenient location near Mysore Palace makes it perfect for experiencing the grandeur of Mysuru Dasara.

Kolkata, West Bengal

Kolkata in West Bengal celebrates Dussehra as part of the grand Durga Puja festivities, making it one of the most vibrant cultural spectacles in India. The city comes alive with elaborately decorated pandals, artistic idols of Goddess Durga, and nights filled with music, dance, and rituals. On Vijayadashami, the celebrations culminate in the emotional Sindoor Khela (where married women smear vermilion on each other) and the grand immersion of Durga idols in the Hooghly River. The scale, creativity, and devotion of Kolkata’s festivities make it a once-in-a-lifetime experience for any traveller.

Top Attraction:

• Pandal Hopping – Explore the city’s countless themed pandals, each showcasing stunning artistry, from traditional craftsmanship to modern creative concepts.
• Sindoor Khela – On Vijayadashami, married women smear vermilion on each other and bid farewell to Goddess Durga in a ritual that’s as emotional as it is colourful.
• Idol Immersion at Hooghly River – The grand visarjan (immersion) processions, accompanied by music and dance, create a powerful and unforgettable spectacle.
• Cultural Programs & Festivities – Traditional dance, music, plays, and late-night festivities keep the city alive throughout the Puja days.

Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh celebrates Dussehra with deep-rooted traditions and spiritual grandeur, blending mythology with devotion on the banks of the Ganges. The city is renowned for its grand Ramlila of Ramnagar, a 200-year-old theatrical enactment of the Ramayana that spans the entire month and culminates on Vijayadashami. During the festivities, effigies of Ravana, Meghnath, and Kumbhkaran are set ablaze amid chants of victory, symbolising the triumph of good over evil. The divine atmosphere of Varanasi, with its illuminated ghats and ancient rituals, makes the celebration both culturally rich and spiritually uplifting.

Top Attraction:

• Ramnagar Ramlila – A month-long theatrical performance of the Ramayana, attended by thousands, with elaborate sets and traditional costumes.
• Effigy Burning on Vijayadashami – The dramatic burning of giant effigies of Ravana, Meghnath, and Kumbhkaran marks the victory of good over evil.
• Processions Across the City – Colourful parades with idols, music, and dance fill the streets, adding to the festive atmosphere.
• Ganga Ghats Illumination – The ghats glow with lamps and rituals, creating a divine and surreal backdrop to the celebrations.

Where to stay in Uttar Pradesh:

While in Uttar Pradesh, do visit Agra and stay at Saura Hotel – A Club Mahindra Associate resort in Agra. The property offers well-appointed rooms, modern comforts, and warm hospitality for a truly relaxing experience. Its prime location near the Taj Mahal makes it an ideal base to explore Agra’s timeless heritage.

Kullu, Himachal Pradesh

Kullu in Himachal Pradesh hosts one of the most unique and internationally acclaimed Dussehra celebrations, known as the Kullu Dussehra. Unlike the rest of India, the festivities here begin on Vijayadashami and continue for an entire week. The highlight is the grand assembly of more than 200 deities from nearby villages at the Dhalpur Maidan, where they are carried in vibrant processions to pay homage to Lord Raghunath. The celebration is marked by folk dances, music, fairs, and cultural programs against the backdrop of the scenic Himalayas, making it a truly unforgettable experience.

Top Attraction:

• Rath Yatra of Lord Raghunath – The sacred chariot procession where thousands of devotees pull the idol of Lord Raghunath through Dhalpur Maidan, creating an atmosphere filled with chants, music, and devotion.
• Congregation of Village Deities – More than 200 local deities arrive in colourful processions from surrounding valleys, making it a spectacular and deeply spiritual gathering unique to Kullu.
• Folk Performances – Traditional Himachali music, vibrant dance forms, and cultural showcases bring alive the region’s rich heritage and festive spirit.
• Grand Fair at Dhalpur Maidan – A week-long fair with handicrafts, local cuisine, stalls, and cultural programs, turning the town into a buzzing carnival for visitors and devotees alike.

Where to stay in Kullu:

Club Mahindra White Meadows Manali Resort in Himachal Pradesh offers a comfortable retreat amidst snow-capped mountains and lush valleys. The resort in Manali features cosy rooms, modern amenities, and warm hospitality, making it perfect for families and couples alike. Located about 40 km from Kullu, it serves as an excellent base to enjoy both Manali’s charm and the famous Kullu Dussehra festivities.

Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh

Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh, the birthplace of Lord Rama, celebrates Dussehra with unmatched devotion and grandeur. The city comes alive with spectacular Ramlila performances, depicting episodes from the Ramayana, culminating in the symbolic victory of Rama over Ravana on Vijayadashami. Massive effigies of Ravana, Meghnath, and Kumbhkaran are set ablaze amid fireworks and chants of “Jai Shri Ram,” filling the air with spiritual fervour. The holy Sarayu River and temples across the city are beautifully illuminated, making Ayodhya’s Dussehra not just a festival but a divine experience steeped in history and faith.

Top Attraction:

• Grand Ramlila Performances – Theatrical enactments of the Ramayana with elaborate sets, costumes, and devotional songs, bringing alive the epic story for thousands of devotees.
• Effigy Burning on Vijayadashami – Gigantic effigies of Ravana, Meghnath, and Kumbhkaran are set on fire amid dazzling fireworks, symbolising the eternal triumph of good over evil.
• Illumination of Temples and Sarayu Ghats – The entire city, including its ancient temples and the sacred Sarayu Ghats, glows with diyas, candles, and lights, offering a breathtaking spiritual ambience.
• Religious Processions – Colourful parades carrying idols of Lord Rama, Lakshmana, and Sita are accompanied by chants of “Jai Shri Ram,” devotional music, and traditional performances, filling the city with festive energy.

Where to stay in Ayodhya:

Praveg Tent City Ayodhya Brahma Kund Resort in Uttar Pradesh offers a unique blend of comfort and spirituality in the sacred city of Lord Rama. This resort in Ayodhya features elegantly designed tents with modern comforts, giving guests an immersive yet comfortable experience. Its location near Brahma Kund makes it a serene base to explore Ayodhya’s temples, ghats, and the grandeur of Dussehra celebrations.

Ahmedabad, Gujarat

Ahmedabad in Gujarat celebrates Dussehra with a vibrant mix of devotion, culture, and festivity. The city is renowned for its Garba and Dandiya Raas performances during Navratri, where people dance in colourful attire to traditional music late into the night. On Vijayadashami, the celebrations peak with the burning of Ravana effigies, symbolising the victory of good over evil, alongside processions, fairs, and temple rituals. The lively atmosphere, blending spirituality with cultural vibrancy, makes Ahmedabad a wonderful place to witness Dussehra in Gujarat.

Top Attraction:

• Garba and Dandiya Nights – The city comes alive with dazzling Garba and Dandiya Raas performances, where people in colourful traditional attire dance to folk music under vibrant lights, creating an electrifying festive atmosphere.
• Effigy Burning on Vijayadashami – Gigantic effigies of Ravana are set ablaze across the city, accompanied by cheers, fireworks, and cultural performances, symbolising the eternal victory of good over evil.
• Temple Visits and Rituals – Devotees throng famous temples like Jagannath Temple and ISKCON Temple to offer prayers, witness special aartis, and take blessings for prosperity and happiness.
• Fairs and Cultural Programs – Local fairs with handicrafts, food stalls, rides, and cultural shows make the festival a colourful carnival, bringing families and communities together in celebration.

Where to stay in Ahmedabad:

Club Mahindra Kensville Golf Resort in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, is a perfect getaway where comfort meets leisure. Surrounded by vast greenery and an 18-hole golf course, this resort in Ahmedabad offers elegant rooms, modern amenities, and exceptional hospitality. Its tranquil setting just outside the city makes it an ideal retreat to enjoy both relaxation and the vibrant Dussehra celebrations of Ahmedabad.

Delhi

Delhi celebrates Dussehra with unmatched grandeur, blending tradition with scale. The city is famous for its spectacular Ramlila performances, staged at venues like the Red Fort grounds, where episodes from the Ramayana are brought to life with drama, music, and devotion. On Vijayadashami, enormous effigies of Ravana, Meghnath, and Kumbhkaran are set ablaze amid fireworks and cheers, drawing massive crowds. With cultural fairs, festive markets, and illuminated streets, Delhi transforms into a vibrant hub of celebration, making it one of the best places in India to witness Dussehra.

Top Attraction:

• Lavish Ramlila Performances – Iconic stages like the Red Fort grounds host grand Ramlila plays with elaborate sets, costumes, music, and special effects, retelling the Ramayana in a way that captivates audiences of all ages.
• Effigy Burning on Vijayadashami – Gigantic effigies of Ravana, Meghnath, and Kumbhkaran are set ablaze amid fireworks, drum beats, and cheers, drawing massive crowds from across the city.
• Festive Melas and Fairs – Cultural fairs around Ramlila grounds feature delicious food stalls, handicrafts, rides, and folk performances, creating a lively carnival-like atmosphere perfect for families.
• Illuminated Streets and Markets – Popular spots like Chandni Chowk and Dilli Haat glow with lights, decorations, and festive shopping opportunities, making the city sparkle with festive spirit.

Bastar, Chhattisgarh

Bastar in Chhattisgarh hosts one of the most unique and culturally rich Dussehra celebrations in India, known as the Bastar Dussehra. Unlike other parts of the country, the festival here does not focus on the victory of Lord Rama over Ravana but is dedicated to the worship of Goddess Danteshwari, the presiding deity of the region. Stretching over 75 days, it is considered the longest Dussehra festival in the world. The event showcases tribal traditions, rituals, processions, and folk performances, offering a fascinating glimpse into the heritage of Chhattisgarh.

Top Attraction:

• Worship of Goddess Danteshwari – The heart of Bastar Dussehra, where tribal communities gather to honour their patron goddess with grand rituals, prayers, and offerings, creating a deeply spiritual atmosphere.
• Traditional Rath Yatra – A colossal wooden chariot, crafted by skilled artisans and pulled by thousands of devotees, stands as the centrepiece of the festival, symbolizing unity, strength, and devotion.
• Tribal Rituals and Customs – Rare and sacred tribal rituals, performed by priests and community leaders, showcase centuries-old traditions that make Bastar’s Dussehra distinct from all others in India.
• Folk Performances and Fairs – Vibrant dances, soulful tribal music, handicraft exhibitions, and bustling fairs transform the region into a living museum of Bastar’s cultural and artistic heritage.

 Kota, Rajasthan

Kota in Rajasthan is renowned for its grand and colourful Dussehra Mela, one of the largest fairs in northern India. The festival blends devotion with festivity, beginning with a spectacular procession of beautifully decorated idols of Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana through the city. The highlight is the dramatic burning of massive effigies of Ravana, Meghnath, and Kumbhkaran, accompanied by dazzling fireworks. Beyond the religious significance, the fairgrounds buzz with cultural performances, amusement rides, handicraft stalls, and local delicacies, making Kota’s Dussehra a vibrant celebration of tradition and community spirit.

Top Attraction:

• Dussehra Mela – One of the largest and most famous fairs in northern India, attracting thousands of visitors with cultural programs, amusement rides, handicraft stalls, and a festive carnival-like atmosphere.
• Effigy Burning on Vijayadashami – Gigantic effigies of Ravana, Meghnath, and Kumbhkaran are dramatically set ablaze amid cheers and dazzling fireworks, symbolising the eternal victory of good over evil.
• Grand Procession – Beautifully adorned idols of Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana are carried in a lively procession across the city, accompanied by devotional music, dance troupes, and joyous crowds.
• Cultural Shows and Folk Performances – Traditional Rajasthani music, colourful folk dances, and theatrical performances bring the fairgrounds alive, showcasing the state’s rich cultural heritage.

Where to stay in Rajasthan:

Club Mahindra Jaipur Resort in Rajasthan offers a royal stay with modern comforts, traditional décor, and warm hospitality that reflects the essence of the Pink City. Guests can enjoy spacious rooms, delectable Rajasthani cuisine, and easy access to Jaipur’s iconic attractions. This resort in Jaipur is located about 250 km from Kota, making it a convenient stopover to experience both Jaipur’s charm and Kota’s vibrant Dussehra celebrations.

Madikeri, Karnataka

Madikeri in Karnataka celebrates Dussehra with a distinctive blend of devotion and grandeur, popularly known as the Madikeri Dasara. Unlike many other places, the festival here is marked by dazzling processions featuring beautifully decorated tableaux (Mantapas) that depict mythological stories with vibrant lights and music. The city remains lively throughout the night, as each Mantapa competes in creativity and spectacle, drawing huge crowds. With its unique style of celebration, Madikeri’s Dussehra is often called the “festival of lights of Kodagu,” making it a truly unforgettable experience in the hills of Coorg.

Top Attraction:

• Mantapa Processions – Gorgeously decorated and illuminated tableaux parade through the city, each depicting mythological stories with creative artistry.
• Nightlong Festivities – The celebrations continue all night, with music, lights, and crowds filling the streets in a carnival-like atmosphere.
• Cultural Programs – Traditional performances, folk dances, and local music highlight the rich heritage of Kodagu.
• Temple Rituals and Worship – Special prayers and rituals at prominent temples mark the spiritual significance of the festival alongside the grandeur.

Where to stay in Madikeri:

Club Mahindra Madikeri, Coorg Resort in Karnataka is a serene retreat nestled amidst coffee plantations and misty hills. This resort in Coorg offers spacious rooms, modern amenities, and a host of nature-inspired activities for families and couples. Its tranquil ambience and warm hospitality make it the perfect base to enjoy the charm of Coorg and the grandeur of Madikeri Dasara.

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Dussehra is more than just a festival; it is a celebration of faith, heritage, and cultural unity that binds people across the country. From grand processions and artistic displays to age-old rituals and joyous gatherings, it reflects the spirit of victory, devotion, and togetherness. Experiencing these celebrations offers a chance to witness India’s traditions come alive in their most vibrant form.