From Northern Lights to Diwali Nights: The Ultimate 2026 Travel Calendar

With 64% of Indian travellers prioritising cultural events, 2026 is set to be the year of 'Intentional Exploration'

As Indian travellers look ahead to 2026, many are seeking inspiration on where to go and when. With 64%* of Indian travellers choosing places for their cultural events and almost eight out of ten* drawn by natural phenomena, Booking.com has curated a 2026 travel guide highlighting some of the most spectacular places to visit each month in 2026. From the celestial dance of the Northern Lights in Canada to the golden glow of Diwali in Jaipur, each destination offers a compelling reason to travel and some unforgettable moments throughout the year.

Q1: Winter Wonders & Ancient Traditions

JANUARY: Chasing the Aurora in Yukon, Canada

Blanketed by long, star-filled nights, January is the peak window for witnessing the Northern Lights. In Yukon, the deep winter darkness acts as a canvas for the Aurora Borealis as it sweeps across frozen landscapes in vibrant hues of green and violet. Beyond the skies, travellers can immerse themselves in "Noctourism" by exploring snow-covered wilderness on guided snowshoeing adventures or taking scenic dog-sledding trips. From off-grid wilderness camps to cosy boutique B&Bs in Whitehorse, the region offers a serene start to the year for those seeking stillness and natural wonder.

FEBRUARY: Lanterns & Lunar New Year in Hoi An, Vietnam

In February, the UNESCO World Heritage town of Hoi An transforms into a glowing sanctuary as it celebrates Tết (Vietnamese Lunar New Year)and its iconic Lantern Festival. The ancient yellow-walled streets are lined with thousands of silk lanterns, and the air is filled with traditional music and the aroma of festive dishes like bánh chưng. Travellers can participate in local rituals by releasing floating candles onto the Thu Bon River or navigating the bustling night markets. The experience is best paired with a stay in a riverside boutique hotel or a traditional garden villa that offers warm, local hospitality.

MARCH: Desert Landscapes & Heritage in Nizwa, Oman

Cool desert winds make March the ideal time to explore Oman’s timeless landscapes before the summer heat arrives. Nizwa, the country’s oldest capital, is renowned for its historic fort and bustling souq. Travellers can ride camels across rolling dunes, spend serene nights in traditional Bedouin camps and marvel at the dramatic contrast between golden deserts and rugged mountains. For a deeper cultural experience a private heritage tour reveals Nizwa’s rich history as a centre of trade, religion, education and art. Travellers can also book desert camps set beneath star-filled skies, elegant resorts with mountain views and welcoming guesthouses in the heart of Nizwa, each offering a comfortable base for exploring Oman’s cultural heartland.

Q2: Spring Blooms & Spiritual Reset

APRIL: Hanami (Cherry Blossom) Season in Fukuoka, Japan

As spring arrives, Fukuoka transforms into a pastel dreamscape. While Tokyo attracts the largest crowds, Fukuoka offers a more intimate Hanami experience. Thousands of cherry blossom trees bloom across Maizuru Park and Nishi Park, offering panoramic views of Hakata Bay framed by soft pink petals. Visitors can join locals for traditional picnics beneath the canopy or take a full-day tour to the Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine. Accommodations range from sleek city hotels to traditional ryokans, allowing travellers to experience Japan’s unique blend of modernity and ancient custom.

MAY: Spiritual Festivals & Himalayan Views in Thimphu, Bhutan

On May 1st, Bhutan celebrates Vesak (Buddha’s Birthday), making it a profound time for spiritual seekers. In Thimphu, the world’s only capital without traffic lights, the pace of life slows down significantly. Travellers can visit the 52-metre Buddha Dordenma for reflection or explore the "Dzongs" (fortified monasteries) that dot the hillside. The month of May offers clear Himalayan views and blooming rhododendrons, perfect for those staying in hillside resorts or heritage stays making every journey here deeply enriching and truly unique.

JUNE: The "Euro Summer" Spirit in Vis, Croatia in Vis, Croatia

Before the peak European holiday rush in July, the island of Vis invites travellers to embrace a slower version of the Adriatic summer. Surrounded by crystal-clear waters, the island is home to hidden coves and the famous Blue Cave. Travellers can spend long, sun-drenched afternoons at family-run konobas (taverns) savouring fresh seafood and local white wine. June’s warm, breezy evenings are perfect for sailing or strolling through the historic stone streets of Komiža, staying in chic seaside apartments that offer front-row seats to the Mediterranean sunset.

Q3: Timeless Celebrations & Wilderness Peaks

JULY: Old-Fashioned Independence Day on Mackinac Island, Michigan, USA

Mackinac Island offers a rare glimpse into a car-free, Victorian-era world. For the Fourth of July, the island moves at a storybook pace with horse-drawn carriages, waving flags, and grand parades. The celebration culminates with a massive firework display over Lake Huron, with reflections shimmering across the water. Whether staying in a historic grand hotel or a lakeside cottage, travellers can enjoy a nostalgic American summer filled with fudge-tasting, cycling around the island’s 8-mile perimeter, and picnics on the Great Lawn of Fort Mackinac.

AUGUST: Alpine Slopes & Mountain Culture in Wanaka, New Zealand

As the Southern Hemisphere’s winter peaks, August is prime time for ski lovers to descend on Wanaka in New Zealand’s Southern Alps. Set beside the breathtaking Lake Wanaka, the snowy town is known for its epic mountain culture, offering world-class skiing and snowboarding at nearby resorts like Treble Cone and Cardrona. Crisp, powdery slopes create ideal conditions for both beginners and seasoned skiers, while cosy lodges, lakeside apartments, boutique alpine hotels, rustic chalets and lively après-ski spots offer the perfect retreat after a day in the mountains. Beyond skiing Wanaka’s alpine scenery and charming town centre invite exploration, relaxation and unforgettable winter memories.

SEPTEMBER: The Great Wildebeest Migration in Northern Serengeti, Tanzania

September is the perfect time to witness one of nature’s most dramatic events: the Great Wildebeest Migration .Over two million animals move across the Serengeti ecosystem, and the Kogatende area becomes a focal point for the high-stakes river crossings. Travellers can witness the raw power of nature from the safety of expert-led safaris. Booking.com features a range of luxury tented camps and wilderness retreats that allow guests to wake up to the sounds of the savannah, offering an immersive experience with resident lions, leopards, and elephants.

Q4: Festivals of Light & Alpine Magic

OCTOBER: Diwali & The Golden Glow of Jaipur, India

Diwali brings Jaipur alive in spectacular fashion as the festival of lights casts a warm golden glow across the Pink City. Historic lanes, bustling bazaars and grand palaces shimmer with lanterns, rangoli art and vibrant light displays. Travellers can wander through the illuminated markets of Johari and Bapu, witness devotional aartis at Govind Dev Ji Temple and see iconic sites like Amer Fort and City Palace dressed in festive brilliance. The city offers a variety of stays ranging from heritage havelis and boutique palace hotels to modern city properties close to the celebrations. The festive season brings peak street food flavours - with favourites like ghewar, kachori and malai ladoo; and Jaipur’s iconic architecture glowing under Diwali lights.

NOVEMBER: Día de los Muertos with a Coastal Twist in Sayulita, Nayarit, Mexico  

In November, the bohemian surf town of Sayulita offers a vibrant, creative take on Mexico’s Day of the Dead. Streets are adorned with "papel picado" (perforated paper) and marigolds, while local artists showcase skull-inspired crafts. Unlike the somber ceremonies elsewhere, Sayulita’s celebration is a colourful blend of tradition and beach-town energy. Travellers can stay in jungle casitas or beachfront boutique hotels, participating in night-time processions that celebrate life and memory in one of Mexico's most "Instagrammable" settings.

DECEMBER: Festive Christmas Markets in Merano, Italy

As the year winds down December is the perfect time for a festive European getaway with towns aglow with twinkling lights and traditional Christmas markets. Nestled in the Italian Alps, Merano comes alive with over 80 market stalls serving hearty goulash, sausages and hot drinks alongside artisanal crafts, candles, perfumes and seasonal decorations. The town’s charming streets invite leisurely strolls, while cosy alpine hotels, spa resorts and intimate guesthouses create a welcoming holiday atmosphere. Beyond the markets, the surrounding mountains offer scenic walks, rejuvenating thermal baths and winter excursions, making Merano a well-rounded festive retreat.