Dussehra 2026 Turns India Into a Celebration of Culture

Dussehra 2026 will bring together different regional traditions across India, from royal processions and palace illumination to tribal rituals, Ramlila performances and large cultural fairs. Vijayadashami falls on October 20, 2026, while some celebrations begin earlier and continue for several days after the main festival.

 

For travellers, each destination offers a different way to experience Dussehra. Mysuru is known for its royal Dasara celebrations, Kullu begins its festival on Vijayadashami, Kota combines Dussehra with a long-running fair, Delhi brings the Ramayana to life through Ramlila, Bastar follows distinctive tribal traditions, Devaraguttu is known for its traditional Banni Festival, and Kolkata celebrates Vijaya Dashami as the grand culmination of Durga Puja.

 

Let’s explore seven destinations where the festival offers a different experience for every kind of traveller.
 

Mysuru Dasara is an 11-day celebration featuring religious ceremonies, cultural programmes, sports, Kambala, a Drone Show, the Torchlight Parade and the grand Jumboo Savari. The official Mysuru Dasara portal has published the 2026 programme, including event dates and timings.

 

 

One of the biggest attractions during Mysuru Dasara is the illumination of the Mysuru Palace. The official Dasara website confirms that the Palace is illuminated every evening from 7 PM to 10 PM during the festival. On October 21, the illumination continues until midnight.

 

Visitors can also experience cultural programmes, the Flower Show, Food Mela, Kambala, Torchlight Parade and Drone Show. The Jumboo Savari on October 21 is the main procession, with the golden howdah procession leaving the palace after the ceremonial rituals.

 

For travellers looking for a combination of royal heritage, spectacular night-time lighting and a grand Dussehra procession, October 21 is the key date.