18 October 2026 · Travel · 7 min read · By Excel Hotels & Resorts
Diwali 2026 is on Sunday 8 November and the five day festival lasts for around 6 to 10 November. That means for many Delhi family getaways are possible. A quiet Diwali: cool November weather, forest surroundings and riverside resorts is a perfect fit for Jim Corbett, approximately 5 to 6 hours drive from Delhi. There are 4 properties of Excel Hotels & Resorts in Corbett. Please book early for festive dates.
The timings of Diwali vary from city to city, so please get a verified panchang for your city and check the timings and muhurat.
Why Not Celebrate Diwali Away From the City?
Diwali is not just about lights, but about family, rest and relaxation; in the city, it can also mean traffic, noise and markets. You can get away and take what you like, and leave the rest.
Better air quality and sky visibility – a break from the city following weeks of festive preparations.
No Cooking, Cleaning or Hosting Family Time!
A peaceful festival break: a slow and relaxed celebration
Accessible: Corbett is not far away by road, and is ideal for a long weekend getaway.
Why Jim Corbett Works for a Diwali Break
It’s close. It takes about 5-6 hours from Delhi. At this time of year, traffic may be high; leave early.
Weather is pleasant. Its heat has departed by early November and days are nice with cool mornings and cool evenings. Carry light layers.
It's got something for everyone. It's perfect for grandparents, parents and kids alike as they ambles along the riverbanks, enjoying nature, visiting temples and sightseeing.
It's ideal for quiet parties. If you are looking for a place that's a family environment, has great cuisine and an easy-going night, then a forest resort is the answer.
Take inspiration from our list of the best places to visit in Jim Corbett.
Diwali 2026 Date and Your Plan for the Holidays!
Diwali 2026 will be celebrated on Sunday 8th November and the major days are around that time.
Friday, 6 November: around Dhanteras
Choti Diwali is on Saturday, the 7th of November.Saturday, the 7th of November is Choti Diwali.
Diwali & Lakshmi Puja Sunday 8 November
Tuesday, 10 November: Lakshmi Pooja.Wednesday, 11 November: Govardhan Puja.
Tuesday, 10 November is Bhai Dooj.
In case of doing puja at home, schedule the trip around puja. Many families go on Friday and come back before Diwali or come back on Monday after the puja. Select a tradition that is appropriate for your family.
Sample 3 Night Diwali Getaway Plan
Alternative A: Leave prior to Diwali (6-8 November)
Friday: Drive to Corbett, check in and enjoy the resort.
Saturday: Nature experience, River side walk, a sight see tour like Garjia Devi Temple.
Sunday: Slow morning then spend Diwali evening with family at resort.
The second option is to travel after Diwali (8 to 10 November).The second option is to travel after Diwali (8 to 10 November).
Sunday: Celebrate at home, rest.
Tuesday: Drive to Corbett post puja, check in and settle in.
Tuesday: Explore, back to the evening.
Both plans maintain a laid-back feel to the days. Try not to stuff into too many activities.
Ideas for Activities in Corbett at Diwali.
Jungle experiences: Corbett has multiple jungle safari areas and the opening dates of some of the areas may vary during this time. Please ensure that zones, permits and timings are verified prior to planning.
Mornings along the river: a quiet stroll along the Kosi.
Garjia Devi Temple is a picturesque destination along the river and is ideal for holiday visits.
A day out to enjoy at Corbett Falls.
A brief visit to the heritage place Corbett Museum, Kaladhungi.
Holiday time: lawns, a slow dinner and a leisurely evening by the fire with family.
After spending a day out enjoying the jungle safaris, if you are feeling tired, we've got the answers to the best spa treatments for exhausted muscles at The Banyan Retreat.
Some Places to Stay for Diwali in Jim Corbett
In Excel, there are four properties, each of which have their own setting in the area of Corbett:
The Banyan Retreat offers a nature-themed retreat for tranquil rests and group retreats.
La Perle River Resort: A unique river-side accommodation next to the Kosi
Mango Bloom River Resort is situated in Mohaan, a riverside resort.
Corbett: a comfortable stay amidst the natural landscapes of the Corbett, Excel Hotels & Resorts.
If you are planning a holiday in Uttarakhand, this will be of interest to you. Or a romance with luxury holidays in Uttarakhand with your family? Compare the properties of all 6 Excel files on the Properties page. For those who prefer a stay in the lakeside or hill, there are also stays in Bhimtal and Nainital.
Please note: A note on offers: The 20% discount on direct booking does not apply to festive dates and long weekends and may not apply to Diwali dates. Direct bookings benefits still exist: flexible cancellation and 15% off activities, subject to the terms. Please refer to current offers or discuss with the team before booking.
These Are Just Some Simple Ideas for a Calmer, Greener Diwali.
Bring small rangoli kit and diyas with you to decorate the room or outside lawn with a small rangoli and make it look festive, but make sure to check the rules of the resort before lighting anything up.
Skip fireworks. Corbett is a forest area and it can disrupt the wildlife, also the resorts may have rules regarding the noise and crackers.
Gather a family photo shoot in festive attire along the river or lawns.
Have desserts and dine at a resort rather than at home.
Have a family game night, discussion and storytelling time without screen time.
Corbett Trip Packing List November
Light jackets or shawls for mornings & evenings
Comfortable walking shoes
Festive outfits and traditional wear
Diyas (small electric lights), candles, or small decor items (Please ask about resort rules first)
Sweet boxes and gift boxes (if you are sharing them)
Power bank, camera and ID proofs
These are items that are essential for sunny afternoons.These are the things that are necessary on sunny afternoons.
Any normal drugs, as hills and forests may be a far distance to late night pharmacies.
Here Are Some Tips on Booking a Diwali Trip:
Book early. A Diwali weekend is one of the busiest times during the year so be sure to book in advance when dates have been confirmed.
Plan the dates of your trip first. Decide if you're staying at home or at the resort for the celebration.
Get up early on the road. Traffic around Delhi and the highways could be quite busy during the festive period.
Confirm what’s included. Discuss food, holiday preparations and arrival hours.
Check rules. Check at the selected property regarding the decorations, diyas and fireworks.
Keep plans flexible. Allow buffer time for the drive.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Diwali on what date in 2026?
Diwali is on Sunday 8 November 2026. Please check local timings with a reliable panchangam.
A good place to spend Diwali or not, Jim Corbett?
Yes, if you want a nature-filled festival break with a comfortable weather, ease of drive from Delhi.
What is the distance of Jim Corbett from Delhi?
Take about 5-6 hours road time (depending on traffic). This festive traffic might add time.
Which season is it in Corbett in November?
Generally quite pleasant in the day, cooler mornings and evenings. Carry light layers.
Is it safe to travel to safaris during Diwali?
Certain areas may be open, but opening dates and permits will vary. Please check before planning.
Are the direct booking discount available for Diwali dates?
Discount of up to 20% doesn't apply on festive days and long weekends. Other benefits may be applicable for direct bookings, depending on the team, see below.
Can I go to the resort and set off fireworks during Diwali?
Corbett is a forest area and fireworks may be restricted in resort areas. Please check with your property prior to travel.
Which Excel property would be perfect for a family Diwali stay?
It will be based upon what you have planned. There are 4 properties in Excel in Corbett, check on the Properties page or ask the team.
Make a plan for your Diwali getaway!
The festive dates go fast. Please check availability, call +91 92113 01999 or email resv at excelhotelandresort.com.
