Diwali in foreign land: 12 International Destinations where Diwali is Celebrated

Diwali is the most extravagant festival amongst all Hindu’s festivals. The country glitter with lights and it gives one more reason to meet folks. For many it’s time to be with family but there are few who prefers a quick escape during the holidays. So, if you are in these 12 countries you can have the best of both the worlds – celebrate Diwali with a little cultural twist and explore a new destination!! 

LONG LIVE THE TRAVEL BUG J

1. Nepal

Our neighbor celebrates 5 days of festival which is similar to what happens in India but with a difference. They call Diwali as “Tihar” where Day 1 is for worshipping the Cows, Day 2 for Dogs, Day 3 is all about lights and crackers, Day 4 to pray the God of death – Yam and Day 5 is Bhaiya Dooj.

Image Source: TheHindu

2. Indonesia

The population of Hindus present in Bali is in great numbers hence you can feel the festivity in the beautiful island. The people in Bali decorate their houses, burn lamps and lights and pray on Diwali. There cannot be a better time to visit Bali.

Image Source: villa blog

3. Sri Lanka

India’s neighbor down south shares the India’s history because of ‘Ramayana’. It is said that there are still traces left in Sri Lanka which proves Ramayana happened. Though Diwali is not celebrated in a traditional way but people light oil lamps and visit each other for splendid meals.

Image Source: srilanka.se

4. Thailand

Yes, not just for exotic beaches, enjoyable nightlife and picturesque locales, visit Thailand for the beautiful festival of Diwali or ‘Lam Kriyongh’ as they call it. People make diya’s with banana leaf and make it float in the river after placing candles in it. The tradition for flying lanterns is also popular.  

Image Source: ktshores

5. Singapore

Singapore too enjoys Diwali sans cracker. It has 18 Hindu temples and a place call “Little India” where you can find many Indian restaurants as well. The streets are lit up and the festival is enjoyed with family and friends.

Image Source: wikipedia

6. Japan

The sky radiates with thousands of flying lanterns and people hang lanterns and other hangings in the orchards and trees. The Diwali in Japan is very different from India as boating is preferred on that day and song & dance activities can be seen everywhere.

Image Source: panrimo

7. Mauritius

With a large Hindu population and own version of Ramayana, Mauritius celebrates Diwali in a grand way. For the country, Diwali is celebrated as Lord Krishna killed the Demon Narkasuran on this day. The rest of the celebrations is similar to what we do in India.

Image Source: demotix

8. Malaysia

‘Hari Diwali’ is celebrated in Malaysia in South Indian tradition of oil bathing before they offer the final prayers. Even though the Hindu population is less than 10%, Diwali is still celebrated across the country in a grandeur way.

Image Source: internet

9. Myanmar

Touching our eastern border is the country of Myanmar. It has Hindu population because of its proximity to India. They too follow the solar calendar and celebrate Diwali as we do in India with addition of traditional song and dance performances.

Image Source: mediacache

10. Guyana

With 33% of Indian population, this country in northeast cost of South America started Diwali celebrations way back in 1853 with migrating Indian. Loads of food, lights and meeting people marks the celebration of Diwali.

Image Source: Flickr KPillay

11. Britain

The Indians are the second largest ethnic minority in Britain. The occasion starts with visiting the temples to pray Goddess Lakshmi which they make especially for Diwali. The lamps and Diyas are lighted, sweets are made, tempting dinner is served and conch shell is blown during the prayer session of Lakshmi.

Image Source: rikbasra.com

12. South Africa

Indian South Africans form the largest group of Indian descent born outside India. Of the one million Indian immigrants, 65% are Hindus and that’s why all Hindu festivals are celebrated there, Diwali being a major one. In 2007, a book claimed the country to be celebrating 100^th Year of Diwali.

Image Source: Flickr TheAge

International Destinations That Will Cost You Less Than an iPhone

Today is the big day for the launch of iPhone 6s & iPhone 6s Plus. The crazy fans of Apple are leaving no stone unturned to get hand on their handheld. But does an iPhone last a lifetime? Sadly NO! Now, imagine yourself on a sun kissed beach, or on top of the highest building in the world or diving in the mysterious world of ocean or getting clicked with one of the wonders of the world – These are the memories that will last forever. Yes, there are a lot of international destinations than can cost you less than an iPhone. With some good research and advance planning, you can explore and have an experience of a lifetime. And, if this sounds unbelievable, check this list of 14 international destinations you can visit in more or less 65k.

1. Thailand

It is the one of the nearest and the cheapest international destinations from India. Beaches, mountains, shopping, culture, food, nightlife – you name it and they have it. If not the entire country, few key locations like Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket, Krabi can give you the desired break that too without burning a hole in your pocket.

2. Sri Lanka

Our southern neighbour is ideal for back packers and nature lovers. Rich in culture just like our own country, Sri Lanka owns quite a few pristine beaches, the greenest of the green hills with widespread tea estates, great ayurveda massages and finger licking food. A great option for pilgrimage as Sri Lanka is offers sightseeing to the locations where there is evidence of Ramayana.

3. Dubai

An architectural delight, Dubai is home away from home. With majority of Indians, there is no dearth of Indian food or locals. A shopper’s delight, Dubai has the best of the brands available in the world. There is so much to do in this country. Desert Safari, gold souks, amazing architecture, historical districts and abundant recreational activities & experiences, there is something to do for everyone!

4.  Malaysia

Turquoise water, marine life, rich heritage, stunning beaches, pleasant climate and modern architecture – This is Malaysia for you! Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Batu Caves, Langkawi, Mount Kinabalu, Taman Negara, Selangor, Sarawak are the few must visits when you plan for Malaysia. It’s a perfect scenic destination for you.

5. Bhutan

One of our beautiful neighbours, also known as Land of Gross National Happiness, Bhutan is a kaleidoscope destination for the tourists. The country is known for its untouched beauty and scenic locales. Trekking is a famous sport because of the quaint hilly terrain there. The good news is you don’t need a passport to travel to Bhutan!

Image Source: Wikipedia

6. Singapore

A perfect blend of variety of things, Singapore is known for nature, culture, beaches, cuisine, modern structure and architecture. The Sentosa Island is a man made wonder which cannot be explored in a single day.  World class hotels, cruises, latest amenities, shopping – you name it and they have it. Singapore is a country that celebrates culture.

7.  Indonesia

Land of volcanoes, flora fauna, tropical forests & blue green water; in other words land of immaculate beauty. Indonesia is rich in Hindu culture and has a lot of temples. It is considered as one of the best destinations for under water sports because of the astonishing marine life. Seafood and Spa lovers will fall in love with this country.

8. Hongkong

This place is always bustling with light and energy. A walk on the road to witness the glitzy lifestyle or the Disneyland, Hongkong has many options to make your stay entertaining. Shopping and yummy food is icing on the cake and not to forget, no Visa is required in Hongkong for 2 weeks so you can have free spirit holiday!

9. Maldives

Dream destination for honeymooners, the beauty of this place is flawless! Maldives offers the most spectacular views that will blow away your mind. The spa, the food, the water sports; this place will spoil you with choices. Do island hopping or just relax on pearly white beaches, a lifetime memory is guaranteed.

10. Vietnam

Independence, Freedom and Happiness – these 3 words defines the country Vietnam, infact this is the motto they abide to. From the jagged scenery to certain tropical islands, it has a timeless charm to it. Vietnam has a variety of seafood and the tours to local market, islands and wildlife is a must do! Yacht or boat cruise is the best way to save money and time!

11. Cambodia

House to Angor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world, Cambodia is famous for rich history and culture. The rustic beauty that Cambodia showcases should not just be clicked, but should be captured in your heart forever. Also known as the “Kingdom of Wonder”, it has mountains that make Cambodia ideal for adventure lovers.

12. Seychelles

Gaining popularity as one of the most sought destinations for newlyweds, the direct flights from India has made Seychelles easy to reach and fairly affordable. With over 100 small islands, this country amidst the Indian Ocean is one of the most exotic and untouched destinations. The tranquil beaches can take your breath away.

13. Turkey

Rich heritage culture and host of monuments defines the city of Istanbul. Food lovers can have a treat with a variety of options available. Turkish art and shopping at the bazaars are an ideal escape for the tourists.

14. Egypt

Watching the pyramids and mummies can itself be a lifetime experience. Fascinating tales, eternal history and the culture makes Egypt a treasure trove for the tourists. The sunset over the pyramids is a spectacular experience, which should not be missed. No visit to Cairo is complete without seeing the majesty of the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx.

Image Source: Wikipedia

Travel to even one of these destinations can make you rich (with experience) by many folds. With so many options to choose from, which will be your next destination?