From the hills of Karnataka to the coast of Sri Lanka, celebrate Diwali away from home at these 15+ memorable destinations

Diwali is a time for togetherness, celebration and making memories with loved ones. Whether you’re looking to trade the city’s bustle for the tranquillity of the wilderness, spend a few days by the coast or turn the festive break into a luxurious staycation, there are plenty of destinations that offer a different way to celebrate. From nature-led retreats and private villas to city hotels with distinctive experiences, these escapes bring together the spirit of the season and the pleasure of time away.

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1. The Serai Resorts, Bandipur

For those looking to spend Diwali surrounded by nature, The Serai Resorts, Bandipur offers an immersive retreat on the edge of the Bandipur Tiger Reserve. Located approximately 235 km from Bengaluru and 80 km from Mysuru, the resort is set within one of the region’s most biodiverse landscapes, part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Jeep safaris offer the chance to spot elephants, gaur and spotted deer, while guided nature walks and bird trails provide a closer look at the forest’s ecosystem. Back at the resort, villas and log huts offer a peaceful place to unwind, with restorative treatments at Oma Spa and outdoor dining rounding off the experience. It makes for a festive escape that balances wildlife exploration with the quiet pleasures of a nature retreat.

2. Taj Samudra, Colombo

For a Diwali break that combines cultural discovery with a change of scenery, Taj Samudra offers a centrally located stay overlooking Colombo’s iconic Galle Face Green. Spread across 11 acres of landscaped gardens, the hotel places guests within easy reach of the city’s vibrant shopping and cultural experiences, from precious gems and plantation-fresh tea to indigenous handicrafts and exotic spices. Beyond the hotel, a stroll along Galle Face Green or a visit to the National Museum offers a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s history and heritage. With its location and expansive setting, Taj Samudra makes for a festive getaway that brings together relaxation and the opportunity to explore a new destination.

3. SOL by the Sea, Peninsula Del Mar, Karnataka

For those who want to celebrate Diwali by the coast, SOL by the Sea at Peninsula Del Mar offers a relaxed beachfront setting near Yermal Beach. The restaurant brings together the authentic vegetarian flavours of the Karavali region with festive favourites and global cuisines. Regional specialities such as paneer ghee roast, mushroom sukka, kottige with vegetable gassi, neer dosa and pathrode sit alongside Diwali treats including holige, Mysore Pak, gulab jamun and kaju katli. With the Arabian Sea as its backdrop, the destination offers a lovely setting for a festive meal with family and friends, followed by a little time to enjoy the coast.

4. Roswyn, A Morgans Originals Hotel, Mumbai

For those who would like an escape from the bustle of the city without leaving it, Roswyn, A Morgans Originals Hotel, offers a festive escape within Mumbai. Located near Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport’s Terminal 2, the hotel’s 109 residential-style suites bring together the privacy of a personal residence with the comforts of contemporary luxury hospitality. Guests can enjoy leisurely festive meals at Fi’lia, where handmade pastas and Neapolitan-style pizzas set the scene for shared dining, before heading to Black Lacquer, a Japanese-inspired listening bar with vinyl records and a curated cocktail programme. Whether it’s a short festive break or an extended stay with family and friends, Roswyn offers a way to make the season feel special without leaving the city.

5. Jim Corbett Marriott Resort & Spa, Uttarakhand

For a Diwali escape that swaps fireworks for fireflies, Jim Corbett Marriott Resort & Spa offers a nature-led retreat between the Malani Hills and the Kosi River. Guests can unwind with Ayurvedic therapies at Quan Spa, savour Kumaoni flavours at The Corbett Kitchen or enjoy traditional evening high tea at Chowkdi, featuring local favourites such as pakoras, roasted corn and masala chai. Sunrise jungle safaris, village walks and guided bird-watching offer opportunities to explore the region’s natural beauty, while yoga on the Kosi Lawn and garden walks provide quieter moments. The Corbett Retreat Package brings together dining, wellness and nature-led activities, making the resort a fitting choice for a festive break with family.

6. Athiva Resort & Spa, Khandala

Located just 90 minutes from Mumbai, Athiva Resort & Spa offers a family-friendly Diwali getaway in the Western Ghats. Guests can wake up at their own pace with an Anytime Breakfast, spend time together with diya painting and rangoli-making, and have their festive moments captured by the on-site Insta crew. The celebrations continue with an authentic heritage feast, relaxing spa sessions and surprise “Dollop of Joy” amenities by the pool. Complimentary late-night binge boxes in every room add a fun touch for those post-party cravings. With activities and experiences designed for the whole family, Athiva makes it easy to turn the festive break into a memorable hill retreat.

7. The Six, Weligama, Sri Lanka

For a more private Diwali escape, The Six in Weligama offers an intimate collection of six four-bedroom villas along the oceanfront. Each villa has its own design identity, drawing inspiration from destinations such as Bali, Hawaii, Greece, Australia, Italy and Spain, while incorporating local architectural sensibilities. With direct beach access, private infinity pools and expansive indoor-outdoor spaces, the property offers the comforts of a coastal home alongside personalised luxury hospitality. Dedicated butlers, in-villa wellness facilities and dining experiences ranging from local and Pan-Asian flavours to beachfront barbecues make it a considered choice for families and groups of friends seeking a festive getaway by the Indian Ocean.

8. The Passport Hotel, Assagao, Goa

For those who would like to make cocktail discovery part of their Diwali holiday, The Passport Hotel in Assagao offers a distinctive boutique stay. India’s first cocktail-forward travellers’ hotel, the 27-key property places the drinking experience at the heart of its offering. MINI BAR, the lobby’s social hub, brings travellers and locals together, while Layover, the rooftop infinity pool and swim-up bar, sets the scene for leisurely afternoons and sundowner sessions. In-room DIY cocktail setups allow guests to experiment with their own creations, while the Passport Stamping Programme encourages exploration of partner bars across Goa. More than just a place to stay, the hotel offers a festive getaway shaped around the state’s cocktail culture.

9. The Oberoi Rajgarh Palace, Khajuraho

Set amidst forested hills, a pristine natural lake and expansive green landscapes, The Oberoi Rajgarh Palace, Khajuraho offers a tranquil escape for those looking to celebrate Diwali away from the bustle of the city. A meticulously restored 350-year-old architectural gem, the palace sits within a sprawling 76-acre estate, bringing together the romance of royal heritage and the beauty of the natural world. Originally built by Maharaja Hindu Pat of the Bundela Dynasty, the palace rises from the slopes of the Maniyagarh Hills, surrounded by ancient Sal and Palash forests and framed by sweeping views of the Vindhyachal mountain ranges. Its setting makes it particularly appealing to travellers seeking an immersive nature-led holiday, with Panna National Park and Tiger Reserve just minutes away and the UNESCO World Heritage temples of Khajuraho a short drive from the property. Whether it is exploring the surrounding wilderness, discovering the region's architectural heritage or simply enjoying the stillness of the estate, the palace promises a festive escape steeped in history and understated luxury.

10. Raffles Jaipur, Rajasthan

There is a certain romance to winter in Rajasthan. The mornings arrive with a delicate crispness, the Aravalli Hills bask in the warmth of the afternoon sun, and the season invites travellers to slow down and savour the finer things in life. At Raffles Jaipur, this experience unfolds through A Winter Sojourn, an invitation to discover the pleasures of palace living against the backdrop of the Pink City's regal heritage. Conceived as a reimagined Queen's Palace, the property brings together the splendour of royal architecture and the sensibilities of contemporary luxury. Marble-clad interiors, thoughtful rituals and the intuitive attentiveness of the signature Raffles Butler create an atmosphere that feels both grand and intimate. As Jaipur transitions into the cooler months, the palace offers an elegant base for families and loved ones to explore the city's cultural treasures before returning to the comforts of a luxurious retreat. For those seeking a festive holiday that combines heritage, impeccable hospitality and the charm of Rajasthan, Raffles Jaipur makes for an enchanting choice.

11. Six Senses Vana, Dehradun

For those who prefer a more restorative approach to the festive season, Six Senses Vana, Dehradun offers an invitation to slow down and reconnect with oneself. Nestled amidst the sal forests of the Himalayan foothills, this wellness sanctuary provides a peaceful setting where Diwali celebrations take on a more mindful meaning. Guests can immerse themselves in personalised wellness programmes designed around individual needs, with experiences spanning Ayurveda, yoga and meditation. Complemented by nourishing cuisine and a serene natural setting, the retreat encourages a more considered approach to relaxation and well-being. Away from the usual festive rush, days here can be spent embracing restorative rituals, reconnecting with nature and finding moments of quiet reflection. It is an ideal choice for those looking to welcome the festive season with a renewed sense of balance.

12. The St. Regis Goa Resort

Swap the traditional festive bustle for sun-drenched shores at The St. Regis Goa Resort, where the tranquil landscapes of South Goa set the tone for a leisurely Diwali getaway. Surrounded by lush greenery, expansive lagoons and pristine beaches, the resort brings together tropical charm and the signature indulgences of luxury hospitality. Whether travelling with family or planning an intimate escape, guests can enjoy a range of experiences designed to make the most of a leisurely holiday. From rejuvenating spa therapies and signature St. Regis Butler Service to relaxed dining experiences and scenic walks across the property, every detail lends itself to a slower pace of celebration. The resort's expansive setting also makes it an inviting destination for those looking to balance time spent unwinding with memorable experiences by the coast. For a Diwali weekend that combines relaxation, indulgence and a touch of seaside glamour, this South Goa retreat makes a compelling choice.

13. Fairmont Jaipur, Rajasthan

Bringing together the grandeur of palace living and the warmth of festive togetherness, Fairmont Jaipur presents its Festive Palace Escape, a seasonal offering. Set against the scenic Aravalli Hills, the experience is designed for families and groups looking to turn their Diwali celebrations into a leisurely luxury holiday. The offering includes a stay complemented by daily breakfast, lunch and dinner, allowing guests to enjoy the property's dining experiences at an unhurried pace. Those travelling with family and friends can also benefit from 30 per cent savings on a second room, while a further 20 per cent saving on food and soft beverages adds to the indulgence. Beyond the privileges, the property's regal architecture, expansive surroundings and warm hospitality provide an inviting backdrop for a festive gathering. Whether it is a leisurely family holiday or a celebration with a close-knit group of friends, Fairmont Jaipur makes a case for exchanging the usual festive routine for a palace escape in the heart of Rajasthan.

14. The Ten, Goa 

As Diwali approaches, it offers the perfect opportunity to take a break from the everyday and spend a few days unwinding in a different setting. For those looking to celebrate the festive season away from the usual bustle, The Ten, Siolim offers an intimate take on a Goa getaway, bringing together personalised hospitality, beautiful spaces and thoughtfully curated dining. Set against a quiet stretch of forest in Siolim, The Ten offers a sense of privacy while keeping North Goa's beaches, restaurants and creative energy within easy reach. The property combines the warmth of a private estate with the comforts of a luxury boutique resort, featuring spacious suites, private living areas and select rooms opening onto balconies or their own plunge pools. It is the kind of place where mornings can begin slowly, afternoons can disappear by the pool and evenings can unfold without much of a plan.

15. Aravali Marriott Resort & Spa, Delhi NCR

For those looking to escape the city's festive frenzy without travelling too far, Aravali Marriott Resort & Spa, Delhi NCR offers a refreshing change of scenery. Set against the picturesque Aravalli landscape, the resort brings together expansive natural surroundings, contemporary luxury and indulgent hospitality, making it an appealing choice for a leisurely Diwali weekend. The property offers an opportunity to slow down and enjoy a holiday closer to nature, with thoughtfully designed accommodation, leisurely dining experiences and rejuvenating spa offerings. Guests can spend their days unwinding amidst the resort's tranquil surroundings, enjoying a relaxed meal or indulging in wellness experiences that offer a welcome pause from everyday routines. Combining the convenience of a short drive from Delhi NCR with the comforts of a destination resort, it makes for an ideal festive retreat for families and couples alike.

16. Pullman New Delhi Aerocity

If a festive getaway that combines urban sophistication with a leisurely hotel stay sounds more appealing, Pullman New Delhi, Aerocity makes for a convenient choice. Located in the heart of Aerocity, the contemporary luxury hotel offers an escape from the usual routine while keeping the city's attractions and the airport within easy reach. Known for its contemporary design, comfortable accommodation and diverse culinary experiences, the property offers guests the opportunity to enjoy a relaxed festive break without venturing too far from the capital. From leisurely dining experiences and indulgent wellness offerings to unwinding in thoughtfully appointed rooms, there is plenty to make a short stay feel like a holiday. Its convenient location and contemporary hospitality make it particularly suited to those seeking a quick Diwali break, whether with family, friends or as a couple.

17. The Leela Coorg Forest Sanctuary, Karnataka 

For those looking to spend the Diwali long weekend surrounded by forests and coffee plantations, The Leela Coorg Forest Sanctuary offers a tranquil escape into the heart of Coorg's natural landscape. Set within ancient woodland and an artisanal coffee estate, the sanctuary brings together immersive nature experiences and contemporary luxury, creating an idyllic setting for a few days away from the festive bustle. The property features 71 villas and a seven-acre lake, with forest-facing balconies and select villas offering private temperature-controlled pools. Mornings can begin with lakeside yoga before guests set out on guided forest walks, explore cycling trails or enjoy kayaking on the lake. 

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