Dussehra, one of the most celebrated Hindu festivals in India, is marked by massive fanfare. Whether it is Dasara and Golu in the South, Durga Puja and Dasai in the East or Navratri in the North and West, Dussehra holds a special place in every Indian heart.
As each region celebrates this vibrant festival in its own unique way, with specific traditions and rituals, let us explore some of the places in India that witness grand celebrations during this festival.
Dussehra’s rich tradition and significance
Dussehra signifies the triumph of good over evil, and it has two key mythological associations in Hindu culture.
Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana: In the epic of Ramayana, Lord Rama’s wife Sita was abducted by the demon king Ravana. To put an end to Ravana’s evil motives and free his wife, Lord Rama headed towards Ravana’s abode in Lanka with his followers. Ultimately, he defeated Ravana in a fierce battle.
To mark this victory, gigantic effigies of Ravana, his son Meghnath and brother Kumbhkaran are burnt. Additionally, Ramlila is performed throughout the nine days of Navratri, portraying scenes from the Ramayana, and narrating the story of Lord Rama, Lakshman and Sita. In some parts of the country, Ramdal or Chowki is organised, involving processions with tableaus based on the Ramayana.
Goddess Durga’s victory over Mahishasur: When the demon king Mahishasur was wreaking havoc after being granted invincibility through a boon from Lord Brahma, all the gods united to restore peace. They created a divine entity in the form of Maa Durga. The battle between the goddess and the demon continued for ten days, with Maa Durga defeating the evil Mahishasur on the tenth day, celebrated as Vijaya Dashami.
Head to these places in India to make the most of Dussehra festivities
Delhi
The capital city hosts one of the grandest Dussehra celebrations in India. Seasoned theatre actors perform Ramlila, a dramatic enactment of the Ramayana, at various stages across the city throughout the nine days of Navratri. On the tenth day, festivities culminate with the burning of enormous effigies of Ravana, his brother Kumbhkaran and son Meghnath. Prominent places to witness Ramlila include the iconic Red Fort, Shriram Bharatiya Kala Kendra and Ramlila Maidan. Additionally, the city offers vibrant Durga Puja celebrations and dandiya nights at various locations.
Ideal days to visit for Dussehra: While visiting the city’s key attractions on all days is fun, the tenth day is undoubtedly the best to witness the grand Ravana Dahan (burning) ceremony and the visarjan (immersion) of Goddess Durga.
Attractions: Apart from the above-mentioned sites, Subhash Maidan, Madhavas Park and DDA Ground Pitampura are among the top picks to experience the magic of this timeless epic. The well-scripted performances, glitzy lighting and stalls serving delicious street foods add to the galore. You can also visit CR Park and Kalibari to immerse in some authentic Durga Puja vibes.
Places to stay: Haveli Dharampura, a UNESCO-awarded Boutique Heritage Hotel, Le Meridien New Delhi and Shangri-la Eros New Delhi are some of the best stay options.
How to reach
By air: The Indira Gandhi International Airport is approximately 18 km from central Delhi
By train: New Delhi Railway Station is approximately 7 km from central Delhi
By road: Delhi is approximately 42 km from Ghaziabad
Book your stay at Radisson Blu Plaza Delhi Airport
Kullu
Dussehra celebrations in Kullu are very different from most places in India. They start on the tenth day and extend for a week. You can see large processions of people carrying idols of gods and goddesses, especially Lord Raghunath (Lord Rama), all decked up beautifully with flowers and ornaments, swaying towards the main ground. The festivities end with the Lankadahan (burning of Lanka) ceremony by the Beas River, creating a breathtaking spectacle.
Ideal days to visit for Dussehra: As the Kullu Dussehra celebrations begin on the tenth day, arriving a day before or on the same day is a good idea. You can either stay throughout the week and experience the festivities or visit during the initial days.
Attractions: Kullu Dussehra celebrations comprise four main components — Rath procession, Nati (pride of Kullu), Parampara (cultural ensemble), and the International Folk Festival. You can also visit the Kullu Fair from October 15-24.
Places to stay: Baragarh Resort & Spa, Manali – IHCL SeleQtions and Royal Mansion are some of the best stay options.
How to reach
By air: Kullu-Manali Airport is approximately 12 km from central Kullu
By train: Joginder Nagar Railway Station is approximately 120 km from Kullu
By road: Kullu is approximately 233 km from Chandigarh
Book your stay at Shivadya - A Boutique Hotel, Manali, here
Kota
If you wish to witness Dussehra the traditional Rajasthani way, look no further than Kota. Local residents dressed in vibrant costumes participate in the festivities amid a lot of fervour. Kota also sees the burning of effigies, marking the beginning of the Dussehra Mela. But, the highlight of the festival in this part of Rajasthan is the King’s procession from the Royal Palace to the fairground, complete with horses, camels and decorated elephants.
Ideal days to visit for Dussehra: Plan a visit on the last two days (ninth and tenth day) to experience the best of Kota Dussehra.
Attractions: The cultural programme organised by the municipality of Kota and authentic Rajasthani cuisine is something to lookout for.
Places to stay: Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Kota and Sasa Resort are some of the best stay options.
How to reach
By air: Jaipur International Airport is approximately 244 km from Kota
By train: Kota Junction is approximately 7 km from central Kota
By road: Kota is approximately 208 km from Ajmer
Book your stay at Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Kota here
Mysore
Known as Dasara in the Southern part of the country, Dussehra celebrations in Mysore, aka Mysuru, mark Goddess Chamundeshwari’s (Goddess Durga) victory over Mahishasura. Also called ‘Nadahabba’, the festivities begin on the first day of Navratri and end on the final day with a royal procession. The highlight of this procession is a decorated elephant carrying the idol of the goddess from Mysore Palace to Bannimantap, known as Jambu Savari. Twelve elephants are specially trained for this tradition, and the nine days are filled with military parades, cultural performances and various art forms. The Mysuru Palace is gorgeously decked up with lights during the festivities, and the durbar is graced by royalty, locals and visitors.
Ideal days to visit for Dussehra: Out of the ten days, the last three to four days are perfect to witness Mysuru Dasara.
Attractions: The beautifully lit Mysuru Palace, numerous exhibitions, Kite festival, poetry meets and sand sculpture shows are some of the key attractions that shouldn’t be missed during this time.
Places to stay: Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Mysore and Mysore County Retreat are some of the best stay options.
How to reach
By air: Mysuru Airport is approximately 12 km from central Mysore
By train: Mysuru Junction is approximately 1 km from central Mysore
By road: Mysore is 144 km from Bangalore
Book your stay at Grand Mercure Mysore here
Varanasi
This holy city by the Ganges reportedly hosts the oldest and the best Ramlila, which has been in existence for over 200 years. This month-long performance narrates Lord Rama’s journey and victory exceptionally, ending with Ravana’s death. As it is, Varanasi is renowned for its Ganga Arti and, in addition to this, the Dussehra celebrations make it even more special. The city is home to many Bengali families, so the Durga Puja celebrations are also a no-miss when here.
Ideal days to visit for Dussehra: You can visit the city on all days but the last three days are particularly special owing to the key Dussehra attractions.
Attractions: The special Ganga Arti for Dussehra as the ghats light up is a breathtaking spectacle. The holy dip is an impressive sight as countless devotees immerse themselves in the sacred waters of the Ganga.
Places to stay: BrijRama Palace, Varanasi – By the Ganges and Taj Ganges Varanasi are some of the best stay options.
How to reach
By air: Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport is approximately 24 km from central Varanasi
By train: Varanasi Railway Station is approximately 2 km from central Varanasi
By road: Varanasi is approximately 121 km from Prayagraj (Allahabad)
Book your stay at Tree of Life Resort & Spa Varanasi here
Coorg
This beautiful hill station, popular as one of the best weekend getaways from Bangalore, is also famous for its distinct Dussehra celebrations, known as Madikeri Dasara. The festival is dedicated to Goddess Mariamma, and the streets come alive with folk dance and music, especially on the ninth and tenth days. Locals actively participate in the celebrations throughout the night on the ninth day. Goddess Mariamma is associated with other Hindu goddesses as well as with Draupadi, the wife of the Pandavas.
Ideal days to visit for Dussehra: The last two days see the peak of festivities and are ideal to experience the celebration.
Attractions: The massive parades where locals dressed as gods, goddesses and mythological characters give enriching performances.
Places to stay: Amritara Ambatty Greens Resort and Three Hills Coorg are some of the best stay options.
How to reach
By air: Mangalore International Airport is approximately 140 km from Coorg
By train: Mysore Railway Station is approximately 107 km from Coorg
By road: Coorg is approximately 244 km from Bangalore
Book your stay at Evolve Back Coorg here
(Hero and feature image credit: Singh_lens/Shutterstock)
Related: These Are The Best Places In India To Celebrate Navratri, With Unique Traditions And Customs
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why do we celebrate Dussehra?
Dussehra is celebrated to mark the victory of Lord Rama, an avatar of Vishnu, over the 10-headed demon king of Lanka, Ravana, who abducted Rama’s wife Sita.
What do we learn from Dussehra?
The festival teaches us that good always triumphs over evil. It marks the defeat of Ravana, Meghnath and Kumbhkaran, the three demons, and symbolises the burning of one’s vices and starting afresh.
Are there regional variations in Dussehra celebrations in India?
Yes, there are regional variations in Dussehra celebrations acros India. For instance, Mysore witnesses Dasara, Chennai celebrates Golu and Kolkata enjoys Durga Puja festivities during Navratri.
What are the key rituals and customs associated with Dussehra celebrations?
The rituals and customs associated with Dussehra and Navratri vary across regions and communities. While Gurjaratis participate in garba and dandiya, Bengalis indulge in danuchi naach. Similarly, people in Tamil Nadu decorate their houses with Golu dolls and many places in the North and West India burn effigies of Ravana on Dussehra.
How can tourists participate in Dussehra celebrations in India?
It is always a good idea to research about the traditions, customs and rituals followed by a specific region before visiting the place for any festival. This way, tourists can easily participate in Dussehra celebrations anywhere.
Which is the best Dussehra Mela to visit in India?
Kota’s Dussehra Mela is one of the best to visit in India.
Is Dussehra safe for the kids?
Every place sees a huge crowd during Dussehra celebrations, so, taking extra care of your children while watching processions or standing in queues for darshan is advisable.
Written By
Pyusha Chatterjee
A journalist, Pyusha has previously worked with media organisations including The New Indian Express and Hindustan Times. A solo traveller by choice, she loves exploring life more than anything else, after food of course. When she isn't gardening, writing, reading, cooking or singing out loud, you can spot her watching films and series, debating with ..Read More
