Ganesh Chaturthi is one of India’s most vibrant festivals, celebrating Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles and the god of new beginnings. The festival begins with the installation of beautifully crafted Ganesha idols in homes, public pandals, and temples, accompanied by devotional songs, dance, and cultural events. The celebration reaches its peak with Ganesh Visarjan, a grand immersion procession where idols are taken to rivers, lakes, or the sea, symbolizing the cycle of creation and dissolution. In 2025, Ganesh Chaturthi will begin on Wednesday, September 4, and Ganesh Visarjan will be observed on Wednesday, August 27.
Adding to the festive cheer, many online and offline stores roll out special Ganesh Chaturthi offers and discounts, making it the perfect time for shopping. From home decor, sweets, and festive gifts to electronics and clothing, you can enjoy exciting deals while celebrating the festival.
Here, we bring you 17 must-visit destinations to witness Ganesh Visarjan in 2025, where you can soak in the grandeur of the celebrations and make the most of the festive offers.
Must-Visit Places To See Ganesh Visarjan
Read on to know more about the popular places to visit during Ganesh visarjan:
1. Mumbai, Maharashtra
Lalbaugcha Raja stands as the undisputed king of Ganesh celebrations, attracting millions of devotees from across the world. The visarjan procession from Lalbaug to Girgaon Chowpatty is a breathtaking spectacle that begins days before the final immersion and continues well past midnight.
Key Highlights:
- Girgaon Chowpatty Beach: The primary immersion site where thousands of idols meet the Arabian Sea
- Juhu Beach: Another major immersion location with celebrations extending until dawn
- Powai Lake: Offers a more serene yet equally vibrant visarjan experience
Travel Tips: Use Mumbai Metro and local trains to navigate between pandals, as roads are heavily diverted during visarjan. Book accommodations in Parel or Dadar for easy access to main procession routes.
2. Hyderabad, Telangana – Home to India’s Tallest Ganesh
The Khairatabad Ganesh reigns supreme in Hyderabad, featuring one of India’s tallest Ganesha idols. In 2025, a majestic 69-foot eco-friendly clay idol with the theme “Sri Vishwashanthi Maha Shakthi Ganapathy” will be the centerpiece.
Notable Locations:
- Balapur: Famous for its laddu auction fetching millions of rupees
- Gowlipura: Historic celebrations in Old City with community-driven festivities
- Durgam Cheruvu: Scenic lakeside celebrations combining natural beauty with devotion
Immersion Highlight: The grand procession to Hussain Sagar Lake draws millions of devotees and is considered one of India’s most spectacular visarjan ceremonies.
3. Pune, Maharashtra – Cultural Capital of Ganeshotsav
Pune holds the distinction of being the birthplace of public Ganesh celebrations, initiated during the Peshwa reign. The city’s Manache Ganpati (five revered Ganesh idols) are central to the celebrations.
Must-Visit Pandals:
- Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati: The golden idol managed by the affluent Halwai Ganapati Trust
- Kasba Ganpati: The first among the Manache Ganpati
- Tambdi Jogeshwari: Historic significance with elaborate celebrations
Cultural Experience: Witness the famous dhol-tasha performances and traditional processions that showcase Maharashtra’s rich cultural heritage.
4. Bengaluru, Karnataka – Tech City’s Traditional Celebrations
Bengaluru celebrates Ganesh Visarjan with a mix of tradition and modern city vibes. Devotees immerse beautifully decorated idols in lakes such as Ulsoor Lake and Sankey Tank, accompanied by music, chants, and local community processions. The city emphasizes eco-friendly practices, with many opting for clay idols to protect the water bodies.
Prime Locations:
- Basavanagudi: Epicenter of Bengaluru Ganesh Utsav, hosting the longest-running pandal
- BEML Layout Brookefield: Known for elaborate processions and vibrant drumming
- Cubbonpete: Over a decade of devotion with themed pandals along Avenue Road
Immersion Sites: Ulsoor Lake and Sankey Tank serve as the primary visarjan destinations, offering a peaceful yet spectacular farewell ceremony.
5. Goa – Eco-Friendly Coastal Celebrations
Goa, famous for its beaches and vibrant culture, celebrates Ganesh Visarjan with a unique coastal flavor. Devotees carry beautifully decorated idols from homes, temples, and local mandals to popular immersion points such as Calangute Beach, Baga Beach, Miramar Beach, and Dona Paula Jetty. Communities in areas like Panaji, Margao, Mapusa, and Vasco da Gama actively participate, organizing cultural programs, street decorations, and eco-friendly initiatives. Many people combine beach outings with the ritual, giving the Visarjan a relaxed and festive vibe.
Highlights:
- Community-driven processions with music, drumming, and devotional chants.
- Eco-friendly idols and sustainable practices encouraged.
- Neighborhood and tourist participation add to the festive spirit.
6. Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh – Coastal Grandeur
Visakhapatnam, a scenic coastal city in Andhra Pradesh, celebrates Ganesh Visarjan with devotion, community spirit, and a touch of coastal charm. Idols are carried from homes and local temples to major immersion points such as R.K. Beach, Rushikonda Beach, Yarada Beach, and Kambalakonda Lake, where devotees gather to bid farewell to Lord Ganesha. Local Ganeshotsav mandals and residential communities organize cultural programs, music performances, and eco-friendly immersion practices, making the celebrations safe and environmentally conscious.
Highlights:
- Community-driven processions with devotional music and drumming
- Eco-friendly idols and sustainable immersion practices
- Cultural events and neighborhood participation enhance the festive spirit
7. Chennai, Tamil Nadu – South Indian Elegance
Chennai, the cultural capital of Tamil Nadu, celebrates Ganesh Visarjan with vibrant coastal energy and community involvement. Devotees carry beautifully decorated idols from homes, local temples, and mandals to popular immersion spots such as Marina Beach, Besant Nagar Beach, Adyar River, and Chembarambakkam Lake. The celebrations combine devotion with festive excitement, featuring bhajans, drum beats, and lively processions. Chennai’s Ganesh Visarjan offers a unique blend of spiritual devotion, community togetherness, and coastal charm.
Highlights:
- Traditional bhajans and drum performances energize the streets.
- Community-driven celebrations across neighborhoods like T. Nagar, Mylapore, and Velachery.
- Emphasis on eco-friendly idols and water conservation initiatives.
8. Nagpur, Maharashtra – Central India’s Hub
Nagpur, popularly known as the Orange City, celebrates Ganesh Visarjan with energetic processions and strong community participation. Devotees carry idols from homes, local temples, and pandals to prominent immersion points like the Ambazari Lake, Futala Lake, Sonegaon Lake, and the Nag River ghats, creating a lively and colorful spectacle.
Highlights:
- Community-driven processions with music, dance, and chants.
- Emphasis on eco-friendly idols and sustainable immersion practices.
- Cultural events and local competitions add to the festive spirit.
9. Nashik, Maharashtra – Sacred River Immersions
Nashik, one of Maharashtra’s spiritual hubs, celebrates Ganesh Visarjan with a strong emphasis on tradition and community involvement. The city is known for its serene yet festive processions, where devotees carry beautifully decorated idols from homes and local temples to nearby rivers and water bodies. Major immersion spots include Godavari River ghats at Ramkund, Trimbakeshwar Road, Panchavati, and Gangapur Road Lake, where thousands gather to witness the rituals. Nashik’s Ganesh Visarjan highlights the city’s devotion while keeping its river-centric traditions alive.
Highlights:
- Community-driven celebrations with traditional music and rituals.
- Emphasis on eco-friendly idols and sustainable practices.
- Family-friendly cultural programs along the immersion route.
10. Delhi – Capital’s Diverse Celebrations
Delhi, the capital city of India, celebrates Ganesh Visarjan with great enthusiasm, reflecting the city’s cosmopolitan spirit. With people from different states living here, the celebrations bring together Maharashtrian traditions, North Indian rituals, and modern cultural elements. The immersions usually take place at designated water bodies like the Yamuna River (Kalindi Kunj Ghat, Geeta Colony Ghat, Mayur Vihar Ghat), Sanjay Lake, and Naini Lake. In recent years, the Delhi government has set up artificial ponds across the city to promote eco-friendly visarjan and prevent water pollution.
Highlights:
- Major immersion points: Kalindi Kunj Ghat, Geeta Colony Ghat, Mayur Vihar Ghat, Sanjay Lake, and Naini Lake.
- Eco-friendly artificial ponds for visarjan.
- Community-driven celebrations in Dwarka, Rohini, Mayur Vihar, and Laxmi Nagar.
- Blend of Maharashtrian traditions with Delhi’s diverse culture.
11. Kolkata, West Bengal – Eastern India’s Growing Tradition
Kolkata, the cultural heart of India, brings its own artistic and devotional spirit to Ganesh Visarjan. Idols are usually immersed in the Hooghly River at Babughat, Princep Ghat, Outram Ghat, and Baje Kadamtala Ghat, where large numbers of devotees gather to witness the sacred farewell. Local Ganeshotsav mandals and housing societies in areas like Salt Lake, Howrah, and Garia also organize cultural programs, bhajans, and plays before the final immersion.
Special Highlights
- Major immersions at Babughat, Princep Ghat, and Outram Ghat along the Hooghly River.
- Blend of Maharashtrian rituals with Bengali artistic traditions.
- Growing popularity among youth and community-driven events.
- Eco-friendly visarjan arrangements by local authorities.
12. Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala – Southern Serenity
Thiruvananthapuram, the capital of Kerala, celebrates Ganesh Visarjan with a unique charm that blends devotion, culture, and the serene beauty of the coast. Unlike the grand scale of Maharashtra, the city’s celebrations are more community-driven, with idols immersed in the Shankumugham Beach, Vellayani Lake, Veli Lake, and Kovalam Beach. Local Ganeshotsav Mandals and temples, such as Pazhaya Ganapathy Temple and Panchamukha Ganapathy Temple, play a central role in organizing processions and rituals.
Highlights:
- Major immersions at Shankumugham Beach, Kovalam Beach, and Vellayani Lake.
- Blend of traditional bhajans and Kerala-style drumming in processions.
- Community-driven, family-centric celebrations with a coastal vibe.
13. Indore, Madhya Pradesh – Cultural Innovation
Indore, the bustling commercial hub of Madhya Pradesh, celebrates Ganesh Visarjan with colorful processions and lively community gatherings. Idols are carried with great devotion from pandals and homes to major immersion points such as the Khan River, Yashwant Sagar Lake, Sirpur Lake, and Pipliyapala Regional Park (Atal Bihari Vajpayee Lake). Local neighborhoods and cultural mandals add their own flavor with artistic pandals, creative themes, and eco-friendly idols. Indore’s markets, especially Sarafa Bazaar and Rajwada, also buzz with festive shopping and street food, making the entire celebration a cultural treat.
Highlights:
- Major immersions at Khan River, Sirpur Lake, and Pipliyapala Lake.
- Traditional music, dhol, and devotional songs energize the processions.
- Colorful pandals reflect both devotion and artistic creativity.
14. Maharashtra Aurangabad – Historic Grandeur
Aurangabad celebrates Ganesh Visarjan with a beautiful balance of tradition and community spirit. The city’s processions feature devotees carrying idols from homes, pandals, and local temples to major immersion points such as the Kham River, Sukhna River, Harsul Lake, and Salim Ali Lake. The atmosphere is filled with devotional songs, dhol-tasha beats, and heartfelt prayers, making the event both peaceful and festive.
Cultural Significance:
- Sansthan Ganpati is the central deity of processions.
- Traditional dhol-tasha performances energize the streets.
- Community bonding with participation across social and political groups.
15. Vadodara, Gujarat – Royal Heritage
Vadodara, often called the cultural capital of Gujarat, is home to India’s oldest Sarvajanik Ganesh festival, which began in 1878. Immersion processions take place at major spots such as the Vishwamitri River, Sursagar Lake, and Ajwa Lake, where devotees gather in large numbers. The Lukshmi Vilas Palace holds the royal family’s private Ganesh celebrations, adding a regal touch to the city’s festivities. The Manmohan Yuvak Mandal is especially famous for its “Vadodara Na Maharaja” idol, which attracts thousands of visitors each year.
Unique Aspects:
- Royal family’s long-standing connection with Ganesh Utsav.
- Historic Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav that shaped public celebrations in Gujarat.
- Traditional artistry preserved by local families for generations.
16. Ahmedabad, Gujarat – Commercial Capital’s Festivities
Ahmedabad is renowned for its grand and vibrant Ganesh Visarjan celebrations. Devotees from across the city gather at immersion points such as the Sabarmati Riverfront, Kankaria Lake, and Chandola Lake, turning the city into a hub of devotion and festivity. The processions, often starting from local temples and community pandals, are filled with traditional dhol beats, devotional songs, and energetic chants of “Ganpati Bappa Morya.”
Key Attractions
- Community-driven celebrations with active neighborhood participation.
- Traditional Gujarati customs blended with Maharashtrian influences.
- Eco-friendly initiatives with clay idols and sustainable immersion practices.
17. Bhubaneswar, Odisha – Eastern Innovation
Bhubaneswar, known as the temple city of India, celebrates Ganesh Chaturthi and Visarjan with devotion rooted in tradition and cultural pride. Across the city, processions start from local neighborhoods and temples, carrying beautifully decorated idols to popular immersion points such as Bindusagar Lake, Kuakhai River, and Daya River. The celebrations are peaceful yet vibrant, with community singing, traditional drumming, and rituals performed at famous temples like Lingaraj Temple and ISKCON Temple. This unique mix of spirituality and culture makes Bhubaneswar an emerging hub for Ganesh Chaturthi festivities.
Unique Aspects:
- Integration with Odisha’s rich temple architecture.
- Local artistic traditions reflected in pandal designs.
- Growing popularity among younger generations who blend tradition with creativity.
Things to Keep in Mind When Going to Watch Ganesh Visarjan?
Ganesh Visarjan is one of the most colorful and vibrant festivals in India, but attending it requires some preparation. Here’s a detailed guide to ensure you have a safe, enjoyable, and memorable experience:
- Plan Your Visit in Advance: Ganesh Visarjan attracts massive crowds, especially in cities like Mumbai, Pune, and Hyderabad. Planning your visit ahead of time is essential. Research the specific immersion points, timings, and local events. Arriving early not only helps you secure a good viewing spot but also allows you to experience the pre-Visarjan rituals, music, and processions.
- Prefer Public Transport: Traffic around immersion areas is usually heavy and chaotic. Using public transport such as buses, metros, or local trains can save time and reduce stress. If you must drive, check parking facilities in advance and plan your route carefully to avoid congestion.
- Carry Water and Light Snacks: Ganesh Visarjan can be physically demanding due to walking, waiting, and crowd movement. Keep yourself hydrated by carrying a bottle of water. Light snacks like fruits, nuts, or energy bars can help you stay energized, especially if you are attending with family or planning to spend several hours at the celebration.
- Wear Comfortable Clothing and Footwear: Comfortable attire is key when attending crowded events. Choose lightweight, breathable clothing and shoes that are easy to walk or stand in for long periods.
- Follow Safety Rules: Ganesh Visarjan areas can get crowded, and immersion rituals involve water and moving processions. Always stay behind barricades, follow instructions from local authorities, and maintain a safe distance from idols being carried. Avoid pushing or rushing, and be cautious around water edges to prevent accidents.
- Respect Religious and Cultural Practices: Ganesh Visarjan is a deeply spiritual event for many devotees. Show respect by maintaining decorum, keeping noise levels reasonable, and avoiding disruption of rituals. If you wish to take photos or videos, ask for permission before capturing close-up shots of devotees or ceremonies.
- Keep Valuables Secure: Crowded places can be a hotspot for pickpockets. Keep your mobile phone, wallet, and other valuables safe in zipped bags or inner pockets. Avoid carrying unnecessary expensive items. Traveling light also allows you to move easily through dense crowds.
- Follow Eco-Friendly Practices: Many cities encourage eco-friendly celebrations using biodegradable Ganesh idols and minimal plastic. Participate in these initiatives by avoiding plastic bags, disposing of waste responsibly, and choosing eco-friendly idols or materials. This ensures the festival remains safe for both people and the environment.
- Know the Immersion Route: Familiarize yourself with the immersion point, nearby landmarks, and entry/exit routes. Knowing the route in advance helps you navigate through large crowds and reduces the chances of getting lost. Keeping a map or using a navigation app can also be very helpful.
- Attend With Family or Friends: Visiting Ganesh Visarjan with family or friends ensures safety and makes the experience more enjoyable. Staying together in crowded areas reduces stress, helps in managing children or elders, and allows you to share the joy of the festival with loved ones.
As always with pudhchya varshi lavkar ya, another year of waiting starts.
Ganesh Visarjan is a vibrant celebration of devotion, culture, and community. The festival brings people together in joyous processions, music, and rituals, creating an atmosphere full of energy and spirituality. Experiencing Ganesh Visarjan allows one to witness the deep-rooted traditions, artistic creativity, and collective enthusiasm that define this festival. It is a time to celebrate faith, family, and togetherness, leaving lasting memories of India’s rich cultural heritage.
