That time of the year is back when the entire country dazzles with unique cultures and traditions. The 10-day long festivity of Dussehra is celebrated differently in different parts of the country.
Adding to this excitement is the 4-day long weekend that has further pepped up the fervour. If you are planning to celebrate this Dussehra in a new style, here are the three cities you must consider —
1. Mysore, Karnataka
Mysore Dasara is a royal 10-day extravaganza started by the Vijayanagara kings over 400 years ago. During this festival, thousands of tourists flock to this city from across the globe.
Highlight– The highlight of the festival is the Jamboo Savari, which includes an elaborately dressed elephant carrying a 750 kg idol of ’ Goddess Chamundeshwari. The Mysore Palace lit up with thousands of lights offers a sight to behold.
Nearest Airport: Mysore Airport (12 km from city centre)
Nearest Rail Head: Mysore Junction Railway Station (15 minutes)
2. Almora, Uttarakhand
Almora, a pristine hill station in Uttarakhand, gets all lively and vibrant during the 10-day celebration of Dussehra. Pandals can be seen all over the town for staging Ramlila- the dramatic re-enactment of Ramayana. Almora’s Kumaoni style Ramlila has also been recognized by UNESCO as one of the most representative Ramlilas in the country.
Highlight – In India, a common practice followed during Dussehra is burning the effigies of Ravana. Although Almora highlights this a bit differently! The city parades the figurines of all the rakshasas featured in the epic Ramayana across the town with dance troupes and burn them on the main ground.The mind-blowing show of firecrackers while burning the effigies is indeed the best part.
Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport (3 hours 35 minutes)
Nearest Rail Head: Kathgodam Railway Station (2 hours)
3. Kullu, Himachal Pradesh
Giving a unique twist to the entire festival, Kullu Dussehra is one of its kind. The celebration at this hill station starts when the entire country winds up the festivities. On the first day, i.e., on Dussehra, a statue of Goddess Hadimba comes down to Kullu. The idol of Raghunathji is taken around Hadimba in a beautifully decorated Rath.
Highlight: Over 200 deities are brought to the town of Kullu in their own palanquins and possessions. The rath yatra is accompanied with local dance and music. On the last day the Rath is brought to the banks of river Beas where a pile of dry grass is set on fire symbolising the burning of Lanka.
Nearest Airport: Bhuntar Airport (30 minutes)
Nearest Rail Head: Joginder Nagar Railway Station (2 hours)
Instead of spending your Dussehra at home, plan a visit to one of these wonderful destinations and spend some memorable time.
