Travel Guide for Dev Deepawali in Varanasi
Plan your visit with this Dev Deepawali in Varanasi travel guide. Explore the illuminated ghats, Ganga Aarti, boat rides, travel tips and more.
Dev Deepawali in Varanasi is one of the most beautiful religious celebrations in India. Observed on the occasion of Kartik Purnima, the festival transforms the banks of the River Ganga into a spectacular display of thousands of glowing earthen lamps. Devotees and tourists visit Varanasi to witness the illuminated ghats, participate in traditional rituals and experience the grand Ganga Aarti. The festival offers an opportunity to explore the spiritual traditions, cultural heritage and religious significance of this ancient city.
Dev Deepawali, also known as the Diwali of the Gods, is celebrated on the full moon day of the Hindu month of Kartik. According to Hindu mythology, the Gods descend to Earth on this day to celebrate Diwali on the banks of the sacred River Ganga. The festival is also associated with Lord Shiva's victory over the demon Tripurasura. This occasion is known as Tripurari Purnima and holds special importance among devotees of Lord Shiva.
During Dev Deepawali in Varanasi, thousands of diyas are lit along the riverfront, temples and ghats. Devotees perform Deepdan, offer prayers and participate in religious ceremonies to seek blessings.
Dev Deepawali 2026: Date and Festival Details
Dev Deepawali is celebrated on Kartik Purnima, approximately 15 days after Diwali. In 2026, Dev Deepawali will be celebrated on Tuesday, 24 November 2026.
The evening celebrations are the main attraction, when the ghats are decorated with earthen lamps and devotees gather to participate in Deepdan and Ganga Aarti.
Visitors are advised to reach the ghats early because large crowds gather during the evening celebrations.
How Is Dev Deepawali Celebrated in Varanasi?
The Dev Deepawali festival in Varanasi is celebrated with traditional rituals and cultural programmes. As evening approaches, thousands of earthen lamps are arranged along the steps of the ghats, temples and riverfront.
The main celebrations include:
Lighting of Diyas: Devotees and residents light earthen lamps along the ghats to mark the auspicious occasion.
Deepdan Ceremony: People offer illuminated diyas to the River Ganga as a mark of devotion and gratitude.
Ganga Aarti: Priests perform elaborate evening prayers with large lamps, devotional chants and traditional rituals.
Cultural Programmes: Visitors can experience devotional music, religious performances and cultural activities organized during the festival.
These celebrations make Varanasi a popular destination for spiritual travellers during Kartik Purnima.
Best Ghats to Visit During Dev Deepawali in Varanasi
The ghats of Varanasi are the centre of the festival celebrations. Some of the most popular places to witness Dev Deepawali celebrations include:
- • Dashashwamedh Ghat
- • Assi Ghat
- • Panchganga Ghat
- • Manikarnika Ghat
- • Kedar Ghat
Visitors can explore these ghats on foot or enjoy a boat ride to witness the illuminated riverfront from the water.
Experience Dev Deepawali Through a Boat Ride on the Ganges
A Dev Deepawali boat ride in Varanasi is one of the most memorable ways to experience the festival. From the River Ganga, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the illuminated ghats, decorated temples and thousands of glowing diyas. Tourists can choose from private boat rides and shared boating options, depending on availability and budget. A boat ride also provides an opportunity to witness the famous Ganga Aarti from the river.
Since boating services experience high demand during the festival, reservations are recommended. Bhakti Yatra Travels offers convenient Varanasi boat ride booking assistance to help visitors plan their experience. Travellers can explore suitable boating options and make reservations according to their requirements.
Best Places to Visit in Varanasi During Dev Deepawali
Apart from the ghats, visitors can explore several religious and cultural attractions during their trip.
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple: One of the twelve Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva and an important pilgrimage destination.
- Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple: A famous temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman.
- Durga Kund Temple: A prominent religious site known for its traditional architecture.
- Bharat Mata Temple: Popular for its unique marble map of India.
- Sarnath: Located near Varanasi, this important Buddhist pilgrimage site is associated with Lord Buddha's first sermon.
How to Reach Varanasi for Dev Deepawali?
Varanasi is well connected to major Indian cities through air, rail and road networks.
- By Air: Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport connects Varanasi with several major cities. Visitors can hire a private cab or taxi to reach their hotel.
- By Train: Varanasi Junction and Banaras Railway Station serve the city, with regular train connections from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and other destinations.
- By Road: Varanasi is accessible through national highways and regional road networks. Travellers can also arrange private taxis from nearby destinations such as Ayodhya, Prayagraj and Lucknow.
Suggested 2-Day Varanasi Itinerary for Dev Deepawali
Day 1: Arrival and Temple Sightseeing
Arrive in Varanasi and transfer to your hotel. Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Annapurna Temple and other prominent attractions. In the evening, attend the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Day 2: Boat Ride and Dev Deepawali Celebrations
Start your day with a morning boat ride on the River Ganga. Explore the famous ghats and nearby temples. In the evening, enjoy the illuminated riverfront, Deepdan ceremony and grand Ganga Aarti from a boat.