Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir | November 8, 2026: The festival of lights, Diwali, brought a festive atmosphere to Srinagar as the iconic Ghanta Ghar (Clock Tower) at Lal Chowk was illuminated with earthen lamps. Tourists and local residents gathered at the historic landmark in the evening to celebrate, creating a memorable scene in the heart of Kashmir.

The illuminated clock tower and the glow of traditional diyas transformed the surroundings of Lal Chowk into a celebration space. Visitors, tourists and local residents came together to light lamps, take photographs and celebrate the spirit of Deepavali.

Watch: Diwali celebrations at Srinagar's Lal Chowk

Times Now shared video of the celebrations at Ghanta Ghar on X: watch the Diwali celebrations at Ghanta Ghar, Lal Chowk, Srinagar.

Advertisement

Srinagar's iconic Lal Chowk glows with Diwali lights

Lal Chowk is one of Srinagar's most recognisable landmarks and an important location in the city's public and cultural life.

On Diwali 2026, the famous Ghanta Ghar became the centre of attraction as traditional diyas lit up the clock tower and the area around it. Reports from the celebrations described thousands of earthen lamps illuminating the landmark.

People gather at Ghanta Ghar to celebrate Deepavali

According to PTI, dozens of tourists gathered at Ghanta Ghar on the evening of Sunday, November 8, 2026 and lit lamps, and local Hindu and Muslim residents joined the festivities by setting off firecrackers. Ankush Chatterjee, a tourist from Kolkata, told PTI he was delighted to celebrate Diwali in Kashmir and described the atmosphere as "radiant".

Advertisement

For tourists visiting Srinagar, celebrating Diwali at Lal Chowk offered a memorable opportunity to experience India's festival traditions in the Kashmir Valley.

Diwali celebrations reflect the spirit of togetherness

Diwali is celebrated across India and around the world as a festival symbolising the victory of light over darkness and good over evil.

The lighting of diyas and the participation of people from different backgrounds at Lal Chowk highlighted the importance of cultural traditions, friendship and togetherness.

Kashmir tourism gets a festive attraction during Diwali

Kashmir is widely known for its scenic landscapes, mountains, lakes, gardens and cultural heritage. The Diwali celebrations at Lal Chowk gave visitors exploring Srinagar during the festive season another attraction, and the illuminated Ghanta Ghar offered a memorable setting for photographs.

Advertisement

Diwali celebrations across Jammu and Kashmir

The festive spirit extended beyond Srinagar. Elsewhere in the Valley, security forces lit lamps in their camps and distributed sweets, PTI reported. Army personnel at forward posts also marked the festival with prayers and lamps while continuing their duties; read how the Indian Army celebrates Diwali on the LoC and borders.

Why Diwali is celebrated: the spiritual significance of Deepavali

Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most important Hindu festivals.

The festival is associated with the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after completing 14 years of exile and defeating Ravana. According to the Ramayana tradition, the people of Ayodhya welcomed Lord Rama, Goddess Sita and Lakshmana by lighting rows of lamps.

Advertisement

Diwali is also associated with Goddess Lakshmi, the Hindu Goddess of wealth, prosperity and abundance. Devotees worship Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha during Lakshmi Puja, seeking happiness, prosperity, peace and success. See the five days of Diwali explained.

The festival reminds people that truth, righteousness and goodness ultimately triumph over darkness and negativity.

A memorable Diwali 2026 at Srinagar's Ghanta Ghar

The illumination of Lal Chowk on Diwali 2026 created a beautiful festive scene in Srinagar. The gathering at the historic clock tower showed how India's festivals continue to bring people together through shared cultural traditions, and Srinagar became part of the wider nationwide Diwali celebrations.

Advertisement

Happy Diwali 2026! May the divine light of Goddess Lakshmi bring peace, happiness, prosperity and success to everyone.

Frequently asked questions

Where were Diwali 2026 celebrations held in Srinagar?

At the iconic Ghanta Ghar (Clock Tower) at Lal Chowk in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir.

When did Srinagar celebrate Diwali 2026?

The celebrations at Lal Chowk took place on the evening of Sunday, November 8, 2026.

What made Lal Chowk special during Diwali 2026?

The historic clock tower area was lit with thousands of earthen lamps, and tourists and local residents gathered to celebrate.

Did local residents and tourists participate in the celebrations?

Yes. According to PTI, tourists lit lamps at Ghanta Ghar and local Hindu and Muslim residents joined in.

Why is Diwali celebrated?

Diwali celebrates the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. It is traditionally associated with Lord Rama's return to Ayodhya and is also celebrated through the worship of Goddess Lakshmi.

Is Lal Chowk a famous landmark in Srinagar?

Yes. Lal Chowk is one of Srinagar's most recognisable landmarks, and its Ghanta Ghar is a prominent city-centre attraction.

More Diwali 2026 on HinduTone

Sources