Dev Deepawali in Varanasi 2025: Dates, Rituals, Best Ghats & Travel Guide
On the full moon night of Kartik Poornima, Varanasi undergoes a transformation unlike anything you will see in India. The ghats of the Ganges glow with more than a million flickering oil lamps, their reflections dancing on the water as chants, bells, and conch shells fill the air. This is Dev Deepawali in Varanasi, a festival that is considered more divine than even Diwali itself. For travellers planning a visit in 2025, it is not just another holiday—it is a chance to witness an ancient tradition, to be part of a city that turns into a living temple of light and faith.
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When is Dev Deepawali in Varanasi celebrated?
In 2025, Dev Deepawali in Varanasi will be celebrated on 5 November, coinciding with Kartik Poornima, the brightest full moon night of the Hindu lunar calendar. The festival always takes place fifteen days after the main Diwali festival. While Diwali in Varanasi, like elsewhere in India, is marked by fireworks, sweets, and lighting homes, Dev Deepawali is an entirely different experience. It belongs to the gods, and the focus shifts to the sacred Ganges, the heart of the city. Pilgrims gather before sunrise for ritual baths, while the evening is when the ghats transform into rivers of light.
Why is Dev Diwali/Deepawali celebrated?
The roots of Dev Deepawali in Varanasi go back to mythology. According to legend, Lord Shiva defeated the demon Tripurasura on this day, restoring cosmic order. To mark the occasion, gods themselves descended to Varanasi to bathe in the holy river. Since then, devotees have believed that lighting lamps and taking a dip on Kartik Poornima brings immense blessings. Unlike the pan-Indian Diwali celebration in Varanasi which is centred around Lakshmi and wealth, Dev Deepawali is about spiritual victory and divine presence. The rituals in Varanasi on this day, which include lighting lamps on the ghats, offering prayers, and taking holy dips in the Ganga, are performed with an intensity rarely matched at any other festival.
The Spectacle of Dev Deepawali
As dusk falls on 5 November, the city turns into an ocean of lights. Every single ghat, from Rajghat in the north to Assi in the south, is lined with diyas. The scale is overwhelming: students, volunteers, and families place lamps on the steps, balconies, and even rooftops overlooking the Ganga. Priests prepare for the grand Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, where chants echo and large brass lamps sway in rhythm to conch shells and bells. When the lamps are lit, the golden glow spreads across the ghats and reflects in the water, giving the impression that the river itself has been set aflame.
The full moon of Kartik Poornima rises over this luminous scene, completing the vision. Fireworks light up the sky, while some parts of the city add projection shows on temple walls or forts, blending modern spectacle with ancient ritual. Cultural programmes and the Ganga Mahotsav, held in the days leading up to Dev Deepawali, add music, dance, and theatre to the celebration, making this not just a religious event but also a cultural festival.
Where to Experience Dev Deepawali in Varanasi
Pritiwary via Wikimedia
The beauty of Dev Deepawali in Varanasi lies in the way every single ghat on the banks of the Ganges turns into a stage for light and devotion. From the northern stretch at Rajghat to the southern end at Assi Ghat, the riverfront becomes an unbroken chain of diyas. The Diwali celebration in Varanasi during Dev Deepawali is not confined to one location; it spreads across the city, with every ghat, temple, and lane illuminated. Each ghat offers a different flavour of the festival: some are grand and ceremonial, others are quieter and more personal. Knowing where to go can make your experience richer, especially if you want to combine photography, rituals, and cultural immersion.
Dashashwamedh Ghat
This is the heart of the festival and the most famous place to witness Dev Deepawali in Varanasi. The grand Ganga Aarti here attracts thousands of devotees and tourists. Priests in saffron robes perform synchronized rituals with brass lamps, conch shells, and hymns while the steps are decorated with thousands of diyas. If you want to experience the spiritual intensity of rituals in Varanasi, this is where you must be. The only challenge is the crowd—arriving hours in advance or watching from a boat is the best way to soak in the atmosphere without being overwhelmed.
Assi Ghat
For travellers looking for a slightly more relaxed experience of Diwali celebration in Varanasi, Assi Ghat is ideal. While it is just as beautifully decorated with diyas, the vibe here is more youthful and community-oriented. Students and families gather to light lamps, music and cultural programmes are often staged, and the crowd, though large, is less dense than Dashashwamedh. If you are visiting with family or simply want space to take photographs, Assi Ghat is one of the best ghats to visit in Varanasi during Dev Deepawali.
Rajghat and Ravidas Ghat
Located at the northern and southern ends of the riverfront, these ghats offer a calmer perspective on Dev Deepawali in Varanasi. Rajghat has historical significance, while Ravidas Ghat is where local devotees often gather for community rituals. Both are fully illuminated during the festival, but the crowds are smaller compared to the central ghats. If you want to experience the charm of thousands of diyas without being squeezed in, these are excellent options.
Panchganga Ghat
This ghat holds special importance because of the Akashdeep ritual, where tall lamps are lit to honour departed souls. The symbolism of guiding souls to heaven is particularly moving here, and the atmosphere is more solemn compared to other ghats. For those who are deeply interested in the spiritual essence of rituals in Varanasi, Panchganga Ghat provides an experience that is both intimate and profound.
Chet Singh Fort and Surroundings
On the night of Dev Deepawali in Varanasi, the area around Chet Singh Fort often becomes the backdrop for projection shows, laser displays, and fireworks. While not as sacred as Dashashwamedh or Assi, it provides a visually spectacular experience. Watching the illuminated ghats from this vantage point, combined with modern light shows, creates a memorable fusion of tradition and technology.
Kashi Vishwanath Temple and Corridor
Although not a ghat, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is an essential part of the Diwali celebration in Varanasi. During Dev Deepawali, the temple complex is decorated with lamps and flowers, and devotees flock here before heading to the ghats. The newly built corridor connecting the temple to the river is also lit up, offering a seamless spiritual journey from temple rituals to riverside celebrations.
Take a Boat Ride on the Ganges
The most unforgettable way to experience Dev Deepawali in Varanasi is from a boat. As you float on the Ganges, you see all 84 ghats glowing at once, a panoramic view impossible from the shore. The reflection of thousands of diyas on the water gives the impression that the river itself is carrying the light of the gods. Many boat rides also pass by ghats during the aarti, so you witness rituals and fireworks without being caught in the dense crowd.
Evening rides beginning just before sunset are the most magical. Bookings for both shared and private boats should be made well in advance, as demand is extremely high. Private rides offer peace and comfort, while shared boats are lively and affordable. Whichever option you choose, this is the highlight of Diwali celebration in Varanasi and one of the best travel experiences you will ever have.
Planning Your Trip for Dev Deepawali
Experiencing Dev Deepawali in Varanasi is unforgettable, but it requires careful planning. The city receives lakhs of visitors during this time, which means transport, accommodation, and even access to the ghats become challenging if you are unprepared. Unlike a regular Diwali celebration in Varanasi, Dev Deepawali is entirely focused on the Ganga ghats, so your stay and movements should be planned with proximity in mind. Here’s how to make your trip seamless.
How to Reach Varanasi
- By Air: The nearest airport is Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, about 25 km from the main ghats. It connects to Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and other major cities.
- By Rail: Varanasi Junction (Cantt) and Manduadih Station are the main railway stations, with excellent connectivity across India.
- By Road: Buses and taxis connect Varanasi with nearby cities like Prayagraj, Lucknow, and Patna. However, during rituals in Varanasi on Dev Deepawali, traffic jams are common, so trains or flights are more reliable.
Where to Stay in Varanasi for Dev Deepawali
Finding the right accommodation is crucial for enjoying the Diwali celebration in Varanasi without stress. Staying close to the ghats ensures you don’t miss the magical lamp-lighting ceremonies. Here are some excellent options:
The Ganga House
A premium riverside villa that offers stunning views of the Ganges, making it one of the best places to stay in Varanasi near the Ganges during Dev Deepawali.
Serenity by the Ganges
Ideal for travellers who want comfort and easy access to the ghats, this villa is perfect for families and couples coming to witness Dev Deepawali in Varanasi.
Arcadian Manor
A boutique stay with a blend of heritage and modern comforts, located conveniently for exploring the ghats.
Sunrise Apartment
Great for longer stays or group travellers who want privacy while still being close to the main riverfront.
Sundale Apartment
Affordable yet comfortable, this is a smart choice for solo travellers or small families visiting for Dev Deepawali in Varanasi 2025.
Booking early is essential, as most hotels and villas get reserved months before the festival.
Also read: Stunning Villa with Lawn for Diwali Parties
Weather in Varanasi during Dev Deepawali
The weather in Varanasi in early November is pleasant, with warm days and cool evenings. Daytime temperatures hover around 25–28°C, while nights can drop to 12–15°C. Carry light woollens for evenings on the ghats or boat rides. The crisp winter air adds to the charm of the festival, but also means you should layer clothing for comfort.
Important Travel Tips
- Arrive at least 2 days before Dev Deepawali to adjust and attend the Ganga Mahotsav.
- Book boat rides in advance, as they sell out quickly closer to the festival.
- Carry comfortable shoes, as you’ll walk through crowded alleys to reach the ghats.
- Use eco-friendly diyas if you want to participate in the rituals in Varanasi.
- Keep cash handy, since mobile networks and ATMs often struggle with heavy crowds.
Nearby Trips from Varanasi
While most travellers come for the spectacle of Dev Deepawali in Varanasi, adding a short excursion makes the journey even more rewarding. The city is surrounded by historic, spiritual, and cultural landmarks that can be explored in a day or two.
- Sarnath (10 km) – A sacred Buddhist site where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon. Visit the Dhamek Stupa, monasteries, and museum for a peaceful contrast after the crowded rituals in Varanasi.
- Ramnagar Fort (14 km) – A riverside Mughal-era fort with vintage cars, weapons, and royal artefacts. Offers striking views of the Ganga, especially during the Diwali celebration in Varanasi.
- BHU Campus – Home to Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum and the Vishwanath Temple of BHU, this is a cultural retreat within the city.
- Weaving Villages – Explore Banarasi silk workshops and shop for authentic sarees, adding a local craft experience to your festival trip.
- Chunar Fort (40 km) – A historic fort overlooking the Ganga, ideal for a day trip if you want to dive deeper into the region’s layered history.
These nearby attractions balance the spiritual intensity of Dev Deepawali in Varanasi with cultural discovery.
Dev Deepawali in Varanasi 2025 is one of the most magical festivals in India, blending mythology, devotion, and sheer beauty. It’s the best time to experience rituals in Varanasi, see the ghats illuminated with millions of lamps, and feel the collective spirit of thousands of devotees. Whether you come as a solo traveller, with family, or with friends, the sight of the Ganga glowing under the Kartik Poornima moon is bound to stay with you forever. So, start planning your Diwali celebration in Varanasi today — book your stay, secure your boat ride, and prepare to be part of an unforgettable spiritual journey.
Also read: Dussehra and Diwali Festival Experiences in Delhi, Varanasi, and Jaipur
Image credits: Jeet Khagram via Instagram
