There’s something oddly magical about waking up on a warm March morning, hearing distant dhol beats, and realizing the streets are about to transform. That’s the vibe of Gudi Padwa 2026, not just a festival, but a full-on mood. The kind where silk sarees meet sunlight, where rangolis spill onto roads, and every balcony suddenly has a proud little gudi fluttering in the breeze.
Even seasoned travelers will tell you, these 10 best places to celebrate Gudi Padwa are pure gold. You won’t just watch from the sidelines; the dhol-tasha beats have this magnetic pull that drags you straight into the dance!
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Girgaon
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Wander into Girgaon during Gudi Padwa 2026, and it feels like stepping into an old Marathi postcard. Narrow lanes, traditional homes, and processions that seem to carry decades of history. This area has long been the cultural heart of the city, especially since the early 20th century when community festivals became a strong identity marker.
You’ll spot female bikers in nauvari sarees and pheta, kids dressed up in traditional clothes, and yeah…those beats of Dhol will make your heart beat with pride. Anyone planning ahead should check the best hotels in Mumbai, because staying nearby just makes everything easier.
Dadar Shivaji Park
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If energy had a physical form, it would probably look like Shivaji Park on Gudi Padwa 2026 morning. Massive processions, lezim performances, synchronized drums, it’s loud, colorful, and slightly overwhelming in the best way. Like you’re witnessing something bigger than just a festival.
Many travelers planning to celebrate Gudi Padwa festival in Mumbai end up here without even trying, it just pulls you in. Plus it is easily accessible via cheap flights to Mumbai, which makes it a crowd favourite.
Thane City
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The Gudi Padwa celebration in Thane has quietly grown into one of the most loved in recent years. Streets come alive with grand rallies, vibrant cultural performances, and the powerful rhythm of dhol-tasha pathaks echoing through every corner. And then, almost unexpectedly, it’s the little things that stay with you, kids dressed in tiny traditional outfits, walking proudly, smiling at strangers… the kind of moments that just linger a bit longer than expected.
Also Read: Gudi Padwa in India: Learn Secret Ways Maharashtrians Celebrate
Kothrud, Pune
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Kothrud in Pune during Gudi Padwa 2026 will feel like a cultural parade that forgot to end. It’s lively but not chaotic. Families step out together, traditional bikes roll by, and music just…floats through the streets.
Pune is often called the cultural capital of Maharashtra, and honestly, that legacy shows. Anyone exploring the best places to celebrate Gudi Padwa 2026 will notice how Pune keeps things authentic without trying too hard.
A quick search for cheap flights to Pune will usually happen last minute, because plans change once you hear about this place.
Nashik
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If there’s a spiritual side to the Gudi Padwa festival, Nashik captures it beautifully. During the festival, shobha yatras move through Panchavati, where you can also spot Maha Rangoli, one of the most eye-catching festive attractions. Walking through these streets during Gudi Padwa 2026 will feel different… slower, calmer, almost meditative, like the celebration is happening both outside and somewhere quietly within.
Also Read: Celebrate Gudi Padwa Festival with Top Staycations in Maharashtra
Kolhapur
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Kolhapur celebrates Gudi Padwa with a touch of royalty, quite literally. The Mahalaxmi Temple Kolhapur (Ambabai Temple) becomes a focal point during the festival, hosting special aartis and drawing devotees from across the region. Tourists searching for places to celebrate Gudi Padwa in Maharashtra also find Kolhapur to be an unexpectedly pleasant experience. Looking for the best hotels in Kolhapur or nearby stays will help to absorb the peaceful atmosphere.
Pandharpur
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Pandharpur will have a deeply spiritual yet quietly festive atmosphere on the day of Gudi Padwa in 2026. Every year, at the Vitthal Rukmini Temple, a unique shringaar darshan of Vitthal and Rukmini attracts thousands of devotees, with the temple decorated with flowers and fruits. The whole experience feels calm, devotional, and almost meditative, evoking vibes similar to Ashadi Ekadashi.
Shirdi
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If there’s a quieter, more devotional side to Gudi Padwa 2026, Shirdi will reflect it beautifully. At the Sai Baba Temple Shirdi, a special gudi will be hoisted on the temple’s golden pinnacle, while devotees will gather for prayers and aartis, creating a calm yet festive atmosphere. For travelers who want to explore Maharashtra along with Shirdi, all-inclusive Maharashtra tour packages will make it easier to experience both the spiritual charm and festive celebrations together.
Surprise Destinations
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Goa
Goa during Gudi Padwa 2026? No, actually, it’s Samvatsar Padvo in Goa. While it’s not as loud as Maharashtra’s cities, the Konkani communities celebrate with equal warmth, fresh mango leaves, festive meals, and quiet rituals.
There’s something about mixing beach air with tradition that just works. Travelers can hop on cheap flights to Goa to pair the festival with a relaxed coastal break.
Daman
Daman will keep things simple during Gudi Padwa 2026, less crowd, more authenticity. Maharashtrian communities will celebrate with energy, homes will light up, and small gatherings will bring a warm, personal feel. It’s the kind of place where you’ll actually get space to breathe. Travelers can plan a trip by choosing a cozy stay among the best hotels in Daman, perfect for a quieter festive escape.
Gudi Padwa 2026 will be celebrated not just in India but also in the US, UK, Australia, and Dubai. To experience it abroad, start by securing entry through online visa services for 180+ countries.
Final Thoughts
The truth is…there’s no single “right” way to celebrate Gudi Padwa 2026. Some places are loud, some spiritual, some just quietly beautiful. But each one carries that same underlying feeling, new beginnings, fresh starts, and a little bit of hope tied to a bamboo stick and silk cloth fluttering in the wind.
If anything, this list is just a starting point. The real experience? That happens when you’re actually there, standing in the middle of it all, slightly lost, slightly overwhelmed, and completely, unexpectedly happy.
Which of these places would you pick for Gudi Padwa 2026? Or is there a hidden gem that deserves a spot? Drop your thoughts below, we’d love to know!
FAQs – Gudi Padwa 2026
Is Gudi Padwa Hindu New Year?
Yes, Gudi Padwa marks the beginning of the traditional Hindu New Year according to the Lunisolar Calendar, specifically for Marathi and Konkani Hindus. It celebrates the day Lord Brahma is believed to have created the universe.
Which date is Hindu New Year 2026?
In 2026, the Hindu New Year (Vikram Samvat 2083) begins on Thursday, March 19. This day coincides with the first day of the Chaitra month, known as Chaitra Shukla Pratipada.
Is Gudi Padwa only in Maharashtra?
While it is the primary New Year festival in Maharashtra and Goa, the same day is celebrated across India under various regional names like Ugadi in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. Other communities observe it as Cheti Chand (Sindhis) or Navreh (Kashmiri Pandits).
Where is Basant Panchami in 2026?
Basant Panchami will be celebrated on Friday, January 23, 2026, primarily across North and East India. Major celebrations occur in states like Punjab, Haryana, West Bengal, and Uttar Pradesh, where it is often marked by kite flying and Saraswati Puja.
What should we do on Gudi Padwa?
The most important ritual is hoisting a Gudi (a decorated flag) outside the home to invite prosperity and ward off evil. Families also draw vibrant rangolis, wear traditional attire, and consume a symbolic mixture of neem and jaggery to represent life’s bitter and sweet moments.
Which temple to visit on Gudi Padwa?
Many devotees visit local Shiva temples, as rural traditions in Maharashtra often involve carrying Gudhi Kavads to these shrines. Popular spiritual destinations like the Siddhivinayak Temple in Mumbai also see significant footfall for New Year blessings.
Where to celebrate Gudi Padwa?
For the most authentic experience, visit cities in Maharashtra like Mumbai (Girgaon) or Pune, which are famous for their grand Shobha Yatras (cultural processions). These events feature traditional Dhol Tasha troupes, lezim dances, and participants in stunning ethnic wear.
What do Maharashtrians do on Gudi Padwa?
Maharashtrians begin the day with a ritual oil bath and decorate their homes with mango leaves and marigold flowers. They prepare festive delicacies like Puran Poli and Shrikhand to share with family and friends after hoisting the Gudi.
Read More:
Gudi Padwa 2025: History, Legends, and More
Long Weekends in 2026 You Absolutely Can’t Waste – Plan Now!
Work’s Over, Here Are the 10 Best Staycations near Mumbai for a Quick Getaway
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