Every year, when the moon shines the brightest in the month of Kartik, the ghats of Varanasi transform to seem like the ocean of lights. This mesmerizing phenomenon is known as ‘Dev Deepawali’ which is a festival of lights of the Gods.
And yes! Dev Deepawali is different from the regular Diwali and it will be celebrated 15 days after regular Diwali on the night of full moon in Kartik month. Diwali is a festival of lights which is celebrated as the victory of good over evil when Lord Ram returned to Ayodhya after defeating Ravan; however, Dev Diwali is the festival of lights for the Gods which is celebrated to remember the victory of Lord Shiva over demon Tripurasura.
History of Dev Deepawali
As per the Hindu mythology, a trio of demon Tripurasura (Tarakaksha, Vidyunmali and Kamalaksha) gained the boon of three floating cities made of gold, silver and iron from Lord Brahma for their committed tapasya. But they did this to take revenge after their father was killed by Kartikeya. With their powers, Tripurasura caused chaos among the Gods due to which all the Gods came together with Lord Shiva to destroy the floating cities in order to kill the asuras. That was the day of the Kartik full moon or Kartik Purnima which is also known as Dev Diwali.
From that day onwards, Dev Deepawali is celebrated in Varanasi because it is the oldest and most divine city for Hindus which was also formed with the spiritual and cultural development of Lord Shiva himself. It is also believed that Gods come to earth to take bath in the holy water of river Ganga and to restore peace & balance in the world.
Dev Deepawali Celebration in Varanasi
Dev Deepawali is celebrated in Varanasi where over 10 lakhs visitors come together to experience the breathtaking sight of millions of diyas brightening the ghats of river Ganga. This celebration is accompanied by various other cultural activities such as classical performances, spiritual Ganga aarti, fireworks, together with the feeling of spiritual wonder of the atmosphere.
So, go on and mark your calendars to light the diyas to honour the arrival of Gods on Earth. This year, Dev Deepawali will be celebrated on 05th November 2025 as Kartik Purnima with Ganga Aarti which will be performed by priests holding massive brass lamps, synchronized chants, sound of conch and flower & sweet offerings.
Dev Deepawali Cultural Immersion and Spiritual Significance
Here is what you will experience during your visit to Varanasi which will be a guaranteed blissful feeling to be experienced with your friends, family and loved ones.
- Divine Atmosphere: This marks the day when gods are believed that they come down to Earth to take a holy bath in the Ganges and create a deeply spiritual and devotional atmosphere for beings.
- Boat Rides: Taking a boat ride on the Ganges offers a unique perspective to witness the brightened ghats, the Aarti, and the fireworks. Enjoy a peaceful time in the holy river and bless your eyes with sight of lighting.
- Cultural Performances: The festival includes various cultural programs such as classical music, dance performances, and displays of traditional textile and painting techniques. Learn about how this came all the way from the past and is still helping locals and visitors to feel more connected.
- Art & Handicrafts: Varanasi’s artistic heritage is celebrated, with local artisans showcasing their products, including brass items, intricate carvings, and famously the silk sarees of Banaras. This is a great way to promote the talent and art of locals which also boosts their income for a better living.
- Fireworks & lighting: The evening of Dev Deepawali will also be filled with colorful fireworks shows which will make the festival of lights even more bright. So you will view the fireworks along with the lighting of diyas.
- Explore Varanasi: Wander around the historical alleys of Varanasi to uncover the past, hidden temples, shrines and other gems. This will be an amazing opportunity to witness the culture of locals living in Varanasi.
Key Details:
- Festival Date: November 5, 2025
- Purnima Starts: November 4 at 10:36 PM
- Purnima Ends: November 5 at 6:48 PM
- Evening Ganga Aarti Timing: Between 5:15 PM and 7:50 PM
Plan Ahead Tip: Arrive at least a day early. It gives you time to settle in, explore the city, and find a peaceful spot at the ghats for the main evening.
Read More: Exploring the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva: A Divine Pilgrimage Across India
How to Experience Dev Deepawali 2025
Reaching Varanasi on the same day of Dev Deepawali is the least we will suggest to you. You are always suggested to reach Varanasi a day or two before Dev Deepawali for a hassle-free visit. Dev Deepawali is the major celebration of Varanasi so people from around the world come together to witness this day in huge numbers.
You can reach Varanasi a day or two before to witness the preparation and evening the morning & evening aartis. Take a boat ride on the Ganga river during the evening to enjoy one of the best panoramic views around.
Here is a full day flexible itinerary of Dev Deepawali in Varanasi which you can use to enjoy a glorifying day in the city:
Morning: Snan and Stroll
06:00 AM – 08:00 AM
Sunrise and Ganga Snan at Assi Ghat
- Begin your day with a holy dip in the Ganges at Assi Ghat. Assi Ghat is the place where devotees gather to witness the first rays of the sun over the sacred river.
- Do not miss the morning Subah-e-Banaras Aarti because it is famous for its soulful music and chanting.
Breakfast and Local Walk
8:00 AM – 9:30 AM
- Enjoy traditional Kachori-Sabzi and Jalebi at a local shop nearby.
- Then stroll through Tulsi Ghat or Bhadaini Ghat in the morning for a less crowded walk before the evening crowds.
Midday: Culture and Exploration
10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Visit Temples & Heritage Spots
- Pay your visit to Kashi Vishwanath Temple and Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple for darshan.
- Short visit to Manikarnika Ghat (the eternal cremation ground) to learn about the cycle of life and death.
Lunch & Rest
1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
- Savor a traditional thali at any good restaurant of your choice and take a short break before the grand evening.
Evening: The Divine Spectacle
4:30 PM – 6:00 PM
Reach Dashashwamedh Ghat
- Arrive early at the ghat to secure a good spot for Ganga Aarti and lamp offering. The ghats start glowing as thousands of diyas are lit with the night light.
Dev Deepawali Celebration
6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- The Dev Deepawali Ganga Aarti begins with synchronised chants, conch sounds, and a surreal atmosphere.
- Watch the ghats illuminated with over a million diyas and view a jaw-dropping fireworks show.
- Participate in Deepdaan, where you can light a diya and let it float on the river.
Night: Serenity & Farewell
8:00 PM -10:00 PM
Ganga Cruise or Boat Ride
- End your day with a serene boat ride to view the ghats from the river for a breathtaking sight of flickering lamps stretching endlessly.
Dinner and Return
10:00 PM
- Enjoy Banarasi delicacies at a riverside café or rooftop restaurant for mouth watering food before calling it a night.
This is just a rough itinerary which you can use for your visit to Varanasi or you can always make a flexible one as per your plans and requirements.
Things to keep in mind while planning your visit to Varanasi during Dev Deepawali 2025:
- Book a comfortable rental car from our platform as per your capacity in advance.
- Plan your stay near Assi or Dashashwamedh Ghat for convenience while commuting.
- Carry a power bank, water bottle, and traditional attire for temple visits.
- Make sure that you keep your tummy full to stay energetic during your visit. You can enjoy the day with a good physique.
- You must take cash with you to avoid any inconvenience caused by network issues while paying online.
- Carry only light luggage for a comfortable journey and the safety of your items.
- Try to reach the ghats by afternoon to avoid traffic and get the best view.
Dev Deepawali 2025 is not just a festival, but it’s a divine moment where the earthly meets the eternal. When millions of diyas light up the Ganga, faith becomes visible, and devotion becomes tangible.
Whether you stand by the ghats or watch from afar, just remember that, every diya you light is a prayer, a spark of hope, purity, and peace.
FAQs
When is Dev Deepawali 2025?
Dev Deepawali will be celebrated on 5th November 2025 during the full moon night to Kartik Purnima.
Can non-Indian tourists come for Dev Deepawali in Varanasi?
Everyone is welcomed to come and celebrate the Dev Deepawali festival in Varanasi together from around the world.
What is the entry fee for Dev Deepawali ghats?
You do not have to buy an entry ticket to visit ghats during Dev Deepawali; however, you will be required to buy tickets for boat rides or special spots at the ghats.
When should I start planning and booking for my Varanasi visit during Dev Deepawali?
It is advisable that you make any required booking at least 2-3 months in advance to avoid any last minute rush. This is a grand festival, therefore, you must book your hotel, rental transportation or any required tickets beforehand for convenience.
