Navratri is a festival which is celebrated with great enthusiasm all across the country. From the energetic Garba and Dandiya nights of Gujarat to the elaborate
temple processions in South India, every region has its own way of celebrating Navratri. During this time of the year, cities and towns are decorated with lights, vibrant decorations and temples are beautifully lit, attracting thousands of devotees who come to seek blessings and participate in traditional rituals. If you want to make the most of this festival, here is a list of best places to celebrate Navratri this year. Kolkata, West Bengal Kolkata during Navratri will overwhelm you with devotion and artistry. The best days here are: Saptami, Ashtami, Navami and Dashami. Durga Puja is the centre of attraction here. Some of the best places to visit would be:
- Dakshineswar Kali Temple
- Kalighat Temple
- Pandals like Bagbazar, Kumartuli Park and Ekdalia Evergreen
Ahemdabad, Gujarat
If you want to celebrate Navratri by grooving for nine nights straight, then this is your place to be. The city does not sleep for nine nights straight.
Some of the major garba venues here are:
- GMDC Groud
- Rajpath Club
- YMCA Club
Temples to visit:
- Ambaji Temple
- Bahuchar Mata Temple
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
In Varanasi, Navratri takes a serene and meditative turn. Here, devotees observe fasts and visit temples. Evening are all about magical Ganga Arti, with priests chanting hymns. Some of the places to visit would be:
- Durga Kund Mandir
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple
- Annapurna Devi Mandir
Kullu, Himachal Pradesh
Unlike the rest of India, in Kullu, Navratri begins after Vijayadashmi. Here, hundreds of village deities are carries in colourful palanquins. The festival continues for 7 days, with Raghunathji being the presiding deity. Important temples to visit here are:
- Raghunath Temple
- Hadimba Devi Temple
Delhi
The capital of the country offers a mix of traditions from across India. You have the Ramleela of Red Fort Maidan, which concludes with the burning of Ravana's effigies. Then there is Chittaranjan Park, which turns into Mini-Kolkata with elaborate Pandals. Around South and West Delhi, you will also find societies organizing community garba and dandiya nights. Some important temples to visit are:
- Jhandewalan Temple
- Chhatarpur Temple
- Kalkaji Mandir
