Diwali special trips: Places to visit for a quieter, cleaner Diwali

It is time for one of the biggest festivals in India, Diwali. While it certainly is time for a lot of festivities, Diwali also brings about a spike in air and noise pollution in most of the bigger cities as revellers are still not over bursting firecrackers. It is expected that Diwali celebrations this year might see more people staying away from bursting firecrackers, yet we know that it will not be a significant change yet.

Thus, if you are seeking a great quiet escape this Diwali, these are the places that will let you celebrate in solitude.

Mashobra lies at around 10 km from Shimla and is the perfect escape for smoke and noise-free Diwali. Pine, oak, cedar and deodar forests in Mashobra will let you breathe easy. Plus, the lesser number of people here also make it perfect for those who are keen to stay away from grand, elaborate celebrations.

One of the westernmost points of India, Diu is where you can run off to if you stationed somewhere in Central, Western India. An island, this pretty place sits by the Arabian Sea and can be your first brush with the Portuguese history of India. Gorge over some authentic Portuguese food when here, enjoy cycling by solitary beaches or do nothing, Diu makes for a wonderful Diwali escape.

If you are around Chennai and are keen on taking a respite away from the city grand this Diwali, all roads should lead you to Puducherry (Pondicherry). Perfectly balmy weather, great food in this once French colony, and beaches that are still not very touristy, this place has a vibe that will set your Diwali mood right.

Those around Uttarakhand can pack their bags and leave for Chaukori this Diwali. Set in the Pithoragarh district of Kumaon Uttarakhand, this hill station sees amazing weather around Diwali, lesser crowd and stays away from the noisy Diwali celebrations that are a part of most of the cosmopolitan cities. Without a doubt, Chaukori can be your secret Diwali escape this year. And then, there is this majestic view of Panchachulli.

Diwali also brings about the weather that is perfect to go vacationing in Kerala. And when it comes to having a quiet, relaxing vacation in God’s Own Land, there can be no place better than the very sombre Kumarakom. Pack your bags for a Diwali trip that will have a lot of Ayurvedic spas, fresh food, a cultural dive and the very alluring Kerala vibe.

Shillong should be your perfect Diwali getaway if you are keen on a trip to the very wonderful Northeast India. A place that grooves, for it is home to a number of contemporary music bands in the country, Shillong also assures you of a pollution-free Diwali. The only noise here is, of course, some good old music.

Jibhi in Himachal Pradesh’s Tirthan Valley is another perfect destination to run to during Diwali. Dense pine trees and tiny, quaint cottages line this hamlet, taking one to a world that is still silent, away from the clutches of tourism. Breathe in the happy Himalayan wind here while partaking in the very interesting Diwali celebrations in the village.

We request our readers to not travel unless essential. If travelling, please follow all the health and safety guidelines by Central and State governments as well as local bodies.

Social distancing is essential for your safety as well as for the locals of these places; please stick to the conditions laid out by your hosts if you venture outside the premises.