The Diwali break used to mean cleaning the house, lighting diyas, and stuffing myself with sweets but somewhere along the way, it also became my favorite time to travel. With work on pause and everyone in a festive mood, I started using this break to explore new countries.
Best places to visit during the Diwali vacation include Dubai, Singapore, Bali, Thailand, Switzerland, London, Paris, Maldives, and Mauritius. From beach holidays to shopping getaways, these destinations make the festival break feel even more special and filled with unforgettable memories.
Each year, I try to spend Diwali somewhere new; sometimes by the beach, sometimes exploring a city in a different country. Here are some of my favorite international picks for a perfect Diwali getaway.
Top International Getaways for Your Diwali Vacation
1. Dubai
Dubai is the kind of city that feels alive all the time. Tall buildings, fancy malls, and glittering lights make it look like it belongs in a movie. The desert nearby is a completely different world; sand dunes stretch endlessly, perfect for a morning or evening safari.
Markets, called souks, are fun to wander through, with spices, gold, and quirky souvenirs everywhere. And then there’s the Burj Khalifa light show at night, it is just magical. Beaches like JBR are easy to reach and a nice break from the city’s hustle.
There’s something for everyone here, whether it’s shopping, sightseeing, or just soaking in the energy.
Travel tip: Try to book desert safaris in advance, and pick early morning or late evening slots to avoid the scorching sun.
Money tip: Haggling is common in traditional souks, so keep smaller notes handy and know the approximate price of gold, spices, or souvenirs before buying.
2. Singapore
Singapore is small but packed with so much to see and do. Little India is especially lively during Diwali, with bright lights, rangoli patterns on the streets, and the smell of sweets and spices everywhere.
Walking along Serangoon Road, you’ll see shops selling colorful sarees, gold jewelry, and quirky souvenirs. Gardens by the Bay is a peaceful escape, with its giant supertrees and flower domes.
Marina Bay Sands offers a stunning view of the city skyline, especially at sunset. Street food is amazing, so don’t miss trying chili crab or laksa.
Travel tip: Don’t forget to go to Tekka Center for breakfast; it’s a local favorite and much cheaper than touristy stalls.
Money tip: Some hawker stalls don’t accept cards, so carry small denominations of Singapore dollars; also, check if you can use cashless payment apps popular locally, like PayNow.
3. Bali
Bali feels like a world apart with its lush green rice terraces, serene beaches, and vibrant culture. Ubud is perfect for exploring art markets, monkey forests, and scenic walks through terraced fields.
The beaches in Seminyak and Canggu are lively, with plenty of cafes, sunset spots, and surf lessons for beginners. Temples like Tanah Lot and Uluwatu make for stunning photo stops, especially during sunset.
Exploring small villages by scooter is the best way to see hidden gems. You’ll also find traditional dance performances in the evenings that give a peek into Balinese culture.
Travel tip: Renting a scooter is cheaper and more flexible than taking taxis, especially for hopping between temples and beaches.
Money tip: Bargain politely at local markets, especially for souvenirs or handicrafts. Using physical cash (IDR) rather than paying via card in small shops.
4. Thailand
Indians visiting Thailand during Diwali can enjoy festive markets, temple visits, and authentic Indian food in local Indian restaurants, while also exploring unique Thai culture and tropical beaches.
Bangkok is a city that buzzes with energy; floating markets on the Chao Phraya River, tuk-tuks zipping through narrow streets, and temples decorated with golden spires create a sense of wonder.
The smell of street food fills the air, with sizzling satay, fragrant pad Thai, and sweet mango sticky rice tempting every passerby.
Up north, Chiang Mai provides a quieter escape with beautiful mountains, ancient temples, and local craft markets. Islands like Phuket and Krabi are perfect for unwinding after a few busy city days.
Travel tip: Take a boat tour through Bangkok’s canals to see a side of the city most tourists miss.
Money tip: Street markets and floating market stalls often give discounts for cash payments. Always keep some Thai baht handy for tuk-tuk rides and food stalls.
5. Switzerland
Switzerland in the Diwali season is pure magic. Snow-capped mountains, cozy chalets, and clear blue lakes create a postcard-perfect setting.
Cities like Zurich, Lucerne, and Geneva blend old-world charm with modern comforts, while the Alps offer skiing, snowboarding, and scenic train rides that feel like stepping into a fairy tale.
Indian travelers are drawn here for the peaceful winter break, festive markets, and chocolate-filled streets. Local Swiss markets often feature handcrafted goods and seasonal treats, while many Indian restaurants in cities like Zurich and Geneva cater to cravings for familiar flavors.
Even without a Diwali festival, the winter wonderland vibe makes it an ideal escape from the usual holiday chaos.
Travel tip: Book train passes in advance for scenic routes like the Glacier Express as it saves time and money, and seats can sell out quickly.
Money tip: Most shops and restaurants accept cards, but small mountain cafes and local markets may prefer cash; having a prepaid forex card from BookMyForex ensures smooth payments.
6. London
London in autumn has a charm of its own. The streets glow with historic architecture, the crisp air makes walking along the Thames refreshing, and every corner seems to tell a story.
One can explore the Tower of London in the morning, take a double-decker bus to see Big Ben and Westminster Abbey, and finish the day with a relaxed evening at a cozy cafe.
And yes, Indians love to shop here, from luxury brands on Oxford Street to hidden gems at Borough Market. Museums and art galleries provide a calm escape from the crowded streets, while parks like Hyde Park offer perfect spots for a leisurely stroll.
Travel tip: Plan the sightseeing route in advance to avoid long queues at popular spots. London’s lines can get long, especially during holiday breaks.
Money tip: Some markets and street food stalls may not accept cards. Carry a mix of pounds and use a prepaid forex card to avoid ATM fees when withdrawing cash.
7. Paris
Paris est toujours une bonne idée (Paris is always a good idea.)
Paris during the Diwali season has a soft golden glow, with tree-lined streets and the smell of fresh pastries in the air. Indians can stroll along the Seine, admire the Eiffel Tower sparkling at night, or sit at a small cafe watching the world go by.
Local markets are a delight, filled with fresh bread, cheese, and chocolates, while small boutiques offer unique souvenirs. Evening walks along the Seine or a river cruise show the city in its most magical light. Even just sitting in a park with a croissant can feel like a little vacation moment.
Travel tip: Buy tickets online for major attractions like the Eiffel Tower or Louvre to skip long lines.
Money tip: Cards are widely accepted, and a forex card is super useful for small cafes, local markets, or metro tickets to avoid foreign transaction fees that credit cards usually charge.
8. Maldives
Imagine stepping onto soft white sand, the turquoise waters stretching endlessly, and the gentle sound of waves lapping nearby; it feels like a different world.
During the Diwali break, the Maldives becomes a quiet escape from the usual festive chaos in India, a place to relax under the sun or watch the sky change colors at sunset.
Overwater villas offer the perfect setting to unwind, while snorkeling and diving open a window into a vibrant underwater world. Evenings can be spent enjoying fresh seafood by the shore or taking a calm sunset cruise across the Indian Ocean.
Travel tip: Choose a stay on a local island to experience the culture, food, and daily life of the Maldives, not just the luxury resorts.
Money tip: While resorts accept cards, small shops and local cafes may prefer cash, so carry both physical currency and a BookMyForex prepaid forex card for ease.
9. Mauritius
Mauritius feels like a little slice of paradise. The beaches are soft and quiet, the water a clear blue, perfect for relaxing or dipping in.
Inland, the hills and waterfalls invite a bit of adventure, with trails that reveal hidden viewpoints and small villages. The markets in Port Louis are full of color and aroma, with street food that’s a delight to taste.
There’s a calm, happy energy everywhere, making it easy to forget the hustle of everyday life. It’s a place where both adventure and relaxation meet, ideal for a short Diwali escape.
Travel tip: Take a day to explore the Chamarel Seven Colored Earth and nearby waterfalls; it’s a sight that feels magical in person.
Money tip: Beachside vendors and street stalls usually prefer cash. For tours, ferry tickets, or boat trips, having local currency in physical form makes transactions smoother.
About the Author
Bhawna Nijhawan is the Content Manager at BookMyForex and the go-to person for creating engaging, informative content that resonates with the platform’s diverse audience. With over 8 years of experience in content writing and more than 4 years in the forex industry, she knows exactly how to simplify complex forex topics into something everyone can relate to.
