Navratri 2025 in India: 7 Best Places To Celebrate, What To Pack & Travel Tips

Navratri, one of India’s most vibrant and spiritually charged festivals, will be celebrated from 22 September to 2 October 2025, ending with Vijayadashami (Dussehra). Over these nine days, devotees worship the nine forms of Goddess Durga, while every corner of the country comes alive with music, dance, rituals, and festive gatherings. Though the traditions vary from region to region, the spirit of devotion and celebration unites everyone.

If you are planning to experience Navratri in 2025, here are the seven best places in India to celebrate, along with packing tips and travel advice.

Ahmedabad, Gujarat – The Land of Garba and Dandiya

No Navratri celebration is as famous as the one in Gujarat. The nights here transform into a riot of colors, with thousands of people performing Garba and Dandiya Raas. Venues like GMDC Ground in Ahmedabad host grand events where both locals and travelers join in. The energy, music, and devotion are unmatched, making it a must-visit destination.

Don’t Miss: Try traditional Gujarati snacks like fafda, jalebi, and khaman during your visit.

Vadodara, Gujarat – The Cultural Hub of Navratri

Vadodara is known as the cultural capital of Gujarat, and Navratri here is celebrated with deep traditional fervor. The United Way of Baroda Garba is one of the largest dance festivals in the world, drawing thousands of participants every night. With live folk music and devotional songs, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Kolkata, West Bengal – Durga Puja Extravaganza

In West Bengal, Navratri coincides with Durga Puja, one of the state’s biggest festivals. Kolkata becomes a canvas of creativity with beautifully decorated pandals (temporary temples), idols of Goddess Durga, and cultural performances. The city never sleeps during these days, as families and friends move from one pandal to another, soaking in the festive spirit.

Don’t Miss: The iconic Sindoor Khela on Vijayadashami, where women play with vermilion, is a sight to behold.

Mumbai, Maharashtra – Dandiya Nights in Bollywood Style

Mumbai celebrates Navratri with dazzling Dandiya and Garba nights. Celebrities, singers, and DJs add a modern twist to the traditional dance forms. Venues like Goregaon and Malad host grand events where people from all walks of life come together. The mix of devotion and glamour makes Mumbai’s Navratri celebrations unique.

Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh – Spiritual Festivities by the Ganges

For those seeking a deeply spiritual experience, Varanasi is the perfect destination. The city is decorated with lights, and dramatic performances of the Ram Lila are staged in various neighborhoods. The evening aartis by the Ganges, combined with festive rituals, create a divine atmosphere.

Mysuru, Karnataka – The Royal Dussehra

Navratri in Mysuru culminates in the grand Mysuru Dussehra, a centuries-old royal tradition. The Mysore Palace is illuminated with thousands of lights, and a majestic procession featuring decorated elephants, horses, and cultural performances parades through the city. It is one of India’s most spectacular Dussehra celebrations.

Delhi – Ram Lila and Festive Markets

Delhi hosts large-scale Ram Lila performances, especially at the historic Ramlila Maidan and Red Fort grounds. These dramatizations of the Ramayana attract huge crowds. The city’s markets also bustle with festive shopping, offering traditional clothes, jewelry, and sweets.

What to Pack for Navratri Travel

• Traditional Attire: Carry colorful ethnic wear like chaniya choli, lehenga, kurta-pajama, or sarees to blend in with the celebrations.

• Comfortable Footwear: You’ll be dancing, walking, and standing for long hours, so good shoes or sandals are a must.

• Light Jacket or Shawl: Evenings in September–October can be slightly cool in some regions.

• Power Bank: With so many photo-worthy moments, your phone battery will drain quickly.

• Travel Essentials: Pack light snacks, water bottles, and basic medicines for convenience.

Travel Tips for Navratri 2025

1. Book Early: Hotels and flights get booked quickly around festival dates. Plan your trip well in advance.

2. Respect Local Traditions: While enjoying Garba or visiting pandals, be mindful of the religious customs.

3. Stay Safe: Festivals attract large crowds, so keep your belongings secure.

4. Try Local Food: Every state has its own festive specialties—don’t miss out on authentic regional delicacies.

5. Participate Fully: Don’t just be a spectator—join the dances, interact with locals, and immerse yourself in the culture.

Final Thoughts

Navratri 2025 promises to be a colorful, spiritual, and unforgettable experience across India. Whether you’re dancing under the night sky in Gujarat, admiring the artistic pandals in Kolkata, or witnessing the grandeur of Mysuru’s Dussehra, this festival offers something magical for everyone. Pack your festive spirit and get ready to celebrate devotion, culture, and joy at its finest.