Dev Deepawali 2025 in Varanasi: Dates, Best Ghats, Travel & Stay Guide
Every November, Varanasi transforms into a city of light. The Dev Deepawali Festival, also called the “Diwali of the Gods,” is one of India’s most magical celebrations — when millions of earthen diyas light up the ghats of the Ganga, and chants, conches, and music fill the air.
This year, Dev Deepawali 2025 will be celebrated on Wednesday, November 5, marking the holy Kartik Purnima. It’s the perfect time to experience Varanasi’s timeless charm — where devotion meets spectacle and tradition feels alive in every corner.
In this Blog
Why Dev Deepawali in Varanasi Feels So Special
Unlike regular Diwali celebrations, Dev Deepawali is believed to be the day when the gods themselves descend to the Ganga to bathe and bless the earth. Locals light countless diyas along the ghats to welcome them. The sight of the entire riverfront glowing under the full moon is something every traveller should witness at least once.
It’s more than a festival — it’s an emotion. From evening aartis to classical performances and buzzing night markets, Dev Deepawali offers a deep glimpse into Varanasi’s living culture and spiritual energy.
The Story Behind the Festival
According to legend, Lord Shiva defeated the demon Tripurasura on this day. To celebrate his victory, the gods came to earth and lit lamps along the Ganga. That’s how Dev Deepawali — the “Diwali of the Gods” — began.
Varanasi, one of the world’s oldest cities, continues to uphold this centuries-old ritual. Watching it here isn’t just a visual treat — it’s like witnessing living history unfold before your eyes.
Best Time to Visit Varanasi for Dev Deepawali
The best time to visit Varanasi for the festival is in November, specifically on the full moon day of Kartik Purnima. According to this, the Dev Deepavali date is November 5, 2025. This is when the city is at its most vibrant, with preparations beginning days in advance. The weather in Varanasi during November is pleasant, with cool evenings and mild daytime temperatures, making it ideal for walking tours, boat rides, and attending night events without discomfort.
Those planning a trip should arrive at least two days before the Dev Diwali festival to enjoy pre-event activities and avoid the last-minute rush.
Dev Deepawali 2025 Dates & Timings
- Dev Deepawali Date: Wednesday, November 5, 2025
- Purnima Tithi Begins: 10:36 PM on November 4
- Purnima Tithi Ends: 6:48 PM on November 5
- Best Time for Ganga Aarti: Between 5:15 PM and 7:50 PM
To make the most of it, plan to arrive at least 2 days early. The celebrations and decorations start well before the main night.
How to Experience Dev Deepawali in Varanasi
Experiencing the Dev Deepawali activities in Varanasi is about more than just seeing the illuminated ghats. It involves participating in traditions, attending performances, and absorbing the spiritual atmosphere.
1. Lighting Diyas Along the Ghats
On the evening of Dev Deepawali, every ghat is lit with thousands of earthen lamps. Visitors can take part in this ritual by purchasing diyas from local vendors and placing them along the steps leading to the Ganga. Dashashwamedh Ghat and Assi Ghat are two of the most famous places in Varanasi for this activity.
2. Evening Ganga Aarti
The Ganga Aarti on this day is more elaborate than usual, featuring extended chanting, conch blowing, and synchronised movements of brass lamps. Observing it from the ghat or a boat on the river offers two distinct but equally mesmerising perspectives.
3. Boat Rides During the Festival
A boat ride along the Ganga during Dev Deepawali provides a panoramic view of the glowing ghats. Many travellers prefer an early evening ride to watch the lamps being lit, followed by viewing the grand aarti from the water.
4. Cultural Performances
Throughout the day and night, classical music and dance performances take place at various tourist attractions in Varanasi. Renowned artists often perform, adding a cultural richness to the festival.
5. Ritual Bath in the Ganga
Devotees take a holy dip in the river during Kartik Purnima morning, believing it to be spiritually cleansing. Visitors can respectfully observe this practice or, if they wish, participate alongside locals.
Famous Places in Varanasi to Visit During Dev Deepawali
The festival period is an excellent time to see famous places in Varanasi, many of which hold special events or decorations for the occasion.
Kashi Vishwanath Temple
One of the most important temples in India, it is especially crowded during the Dev Deepavali festival. Visiting early in the morning ensures a more peaceful experience.
Dashashwamedh Ghat
This ghat hosts the grandest celebrations and is central to most Dev Deepawali activities in Varanasi.
Assi Ghat
Known for its cultural events, this ghat offers a more relaxed yet equally festive environment.
Manikarnika Ghat
Though primarily associated with cremation rituals, this ghat also participates in the lighting of diyas, creating a rare sight that blends life’s spiritual cycles.
Ramnagar Fort
Across the river, this fort offers a quieter vantage point to see the illuminated ghats from a distance.
How to Reach Varanasi for Dev Deepawali from Delhi
Delhi to Varanasi by train:
Overnight options like Kashi Vishwanath Express and Shiv Ganga Express (10–12 hrs).
By flight:
1 hr 20 mins (IndiGo, Air India, Akasa) — Varanasi’s Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport is around 25 km from the city.
By bus/road:
~820 km via Lucknow (12–13 hrs). Start early and expect traffic near entry points.
How to Reach Varanasi from Lucknow / Prayagraj / Patna
- Lucknow to Varanasi: 4–5 hrs by car or train
- Prayagraj to Varanasi: 3 hrs
- Patna to Varanasi: 5 hrs via NH31
Tip: Book tickets early. Around Dev Deepawali, flights and trains sell out weeks in advance.
Other Places to Visit in Varanasi Before or After the Festival
For those extending their trip, there are many places to visit in Varanasi that provide a broader understanding of the city’s cultural depth:
- Sarnath – An important Buddhist site located just a short drive from Varanasi.
- Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum – Showcasing rare artefacts, paintings, and sculptures.
- Banaras Hindu University – Known for its architecture and academic history.
Things to Do in Varanasi Beyond the Festival
While the festival is the highlight, there are year-round things to do in Varanasi that add to the cultural immersion:
- Take a heritage walking tour through the narrow lanes to witness traditional craftsmanship.
- Try local dishes like kachori sabzi, malaiyyo, and Banarasi paan.
- Shop for Banarasi silk sarees from trusted local weavers.
Accommodation Options: From Hotels to Villas in Varanasi
Finding the right place to stay enhances the experience. Many travellers look for a villa in Varanasi for a more private and comfortable visit, especially during the busy festival days. River-facing villas provide a direct view of the illuminated ghats, while others in the old city offer easy access to famous places in Varanasi.
Weather in Varanasi During Dev Deepawali
The weather in Varanasi in November is generally cool and pleasant, with temperatures ranging between 15°C and 28°C. Light woollens are recommended for the evenings, especially if attending late-night cultural programmes or taking boat rides.
Travel Tips for Experiencing Cultural Immersion at Varanasi’s Dev Deepawali Festival
- Plan Early: Accommodation fills up quickly, so book in advance.
- Respect Rituals: While photography is allowed in many places, be mindful during prayers and private ceremonies.
- Use Local Guides: They can share insights and help navigate less crowded spots.
- Stay Hydrated: Even in cooler weather, walking and attending events can be tiring.
- Arrive Early at Ghats: To secure a good viewing spot, especially at Dashashwamedh Ghat.
The Spirit of Dev Deepawali
Dev Deepawali isn’t just about lighting lamps — it’s about feeling connected to something timeless. As the diyas flicker across the Ganga and chants echo in the air, you’ll find a rare sense of peace and wonder.
If you’re looking for a festival that combines faith, art, and sheer beauty, Dev Deepawali 2025 in Varanasi is an experience that stays with you long after the lamps fade.
Banner Image Credit: Chandramouli Bakulapally via Unsplash
Written by: Ruben Saha
