With the New Year right around the corner, here are five destinations in India which are sure to scream “Lights, Camera, Action” as you enter 2026.
Goa
The Rome of the East, is undoubtedly the most popular New Year destination in India. With its vast beaches, water sports, historic churches, diverse cuisine, Portuguese heritage and festive culture, Goa takes centre stage in the New Year party scene.
Goa houses various beach clubs in Baga, Anjuna, Candolim and Vagator which act as perfect sundowner spots. Internationally acclaimed DJs and music artists perform to cater to a wide range of music tastes such as pop, jazz, classical, rock and EDM. Themed parties and midnight fireworks are also a crowd-puller, creating an unapologetically enthusiastic atmosphere.
Beyond parties, South Goa destinations like Palolem, Colva and Benaulim offer an alternative with their quieter beaches and luxury resorts, featuring sunset cocktails and gourmet dinners away from the crowds.
Mumbai
New Year celebrations are incomplete without glitz and glamour in the financial capital of India. With its colonial architecture, busy markets and street food that fill the heart, the city attracts multiple international performers and hospitality brands. From rooftop lounges with breathtaking views of the city skyline to black-tie gala events and themed parties, Mumbai has it all.
Often known as the Miami of India, the city houses the iconic Marine Drive, where masses gather at midnight to watch fireworks over the Arabian Sea.
Delhi
The City of Cities, Delhi is ever vibrant and festive during the New Year. The wintry weather sets the perfect setting for New Year celebrations, be it public gatherings at India Gate and Connaught Place or the lively clubs, pubs and hotels. The national capital offers live performances by renowned artists alongside cultural programmes and food to satisfy your taste buds.
Popular spots include Connaught Place (CP), India Gate and HKV.
Delhi’s New Year caters to everyone, with celebrations ranging from luxury galas, high-energy parties and romantic dinners to cultural immersions and patriotic gatherings.
Jaipur and Udaipur
The Pink City and the City of Lakes promise a New Year destination that is a grand mix of royal heritage and modern celebrations. Palaces are lit up, cultural programmes take place alongside rooftop parties and romantic lake cruises. Jaipur features Nahargarh Fort for its firework views, Chokhi Dhani for its tradition-rich, family-friendly events, and spots like Blackout Club for partying. Udaipur’s celebrations take place at venues like the City Palace and Jagmandir Island Palace (exclusive galas) and extend to Lake Pichola for romantic dinner cruises and Lake Fateh Sagar for simpler experiences with cafés, food stalls and pop-up parties.
Bengaluru
The south Indian city, with its zealous populace, is home to massive parties, concerts and resort celebrations, especially around MG Road and Brigade Road.
Upscale hotels and resorts curate themed New Year bashes with lavish buffets, live entertainment and celebrations that run well past midnight. For those seeking a quieter escape, nearby hill stations like Coorg and Chikmagalur offer scenic getaways. From pulsating club scenes to laid-back resort retreats, Bengaluru serves every mood, with countless ways to ring in the New Year.
Locations like Rishikesh (for its spiritual associations), Manali (for its snow-clad backdrops) and Kochi (for its Christmas and New Year carnivals) are also becoming top New Year destination choices.