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Dev Deepawali in Varanasi is an amazing spectacle that occurs on the full moon night of Kartika, fifteen days after Diwali. On this auspicious night, there are a million clay lamps that illuminate the ghats of the Ganges, casting a golden glow on the river as the lamps float by. Pilgrims and travellers gather for the grand aarti, cultural performances, and spiritual atmosphere, making it one of the most memorable festivals that can be experienced on the banks of the holy river.
Significance Of Dev Deepawali
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Dev Deepawali is a festival of lights but also among the most spiritual nights in Hindu tradition. Celestial beings such as gods and goddesses are thought to descend to Earth on this holy night from the heavens above to bathe in the holy Ganges River, further empowering the river as a cleanser. Devotees throng in large numbers to bathe in the river, illuminate lamps, and seek blessings upon believing that the rituals wash away sins and usher in fortune. This belief has run across centuries to render the festival deeply entrenched in cultural and religious life in Varanasi.
Main Highlights Of Dev Deepawali In Varanasi
From illuminated ghats to crowded aartis, here are a few attractions of Varanasi’s Dev Deepawali.
Ghats Illuminated With Millions Of Diyas
Photo: Rahul Banarasi / Shutterstock
The most striking highlight is the lighting of countless earthen lamps. Volunteers and devotees put diyas along the river steps, temples and pathways. Once lit, the entire stretch of the river gleams with flickering flames, creating an unforgettable view.
Ganga Aarti On Dashashwamedh And Raj Ghat
Special aartis are performed with brass lamps, conch shells, and chants that fill the air with devotion. Dashashwamedh Ghat is the main site, but Raj Ghat also holds a deeply moving version, attracting those who prefer a quieter atmosphere.
Cultural Performances, Music, And Dance
Photo: Goutam1962 / Wikimedia Commons
Classical artists from across India come to Varanasi during Dev Deepawali. Kathak, devotional songs and traditional instruments echo along the ghats, turning the celebration into a cultural festival as well as a spiritual one.
Fireworks And Floating Lamps
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The sky lights up with dazzling fireworks, while devotees release floating lamps into the Ganges. The reflection of lamps on water alongside colourful sparks in the sky makes the evening even more magical.
Processions And Rituals
Devotees, sadhus, and pilgrims participate in processions carrying idols, chanting hymns, and performing pujas. The energy of these gatherings adds to the collective spirit of celebration, which makes every corner of the city vibrant.
Best Places To Experience Dev Deepawali
Here are some of the best places to visit during Dev Deepawali in Varanasi to enjoy the festival at its fullest.
1. Dashashwamedh Ghat
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Dashashwamedh Ghat is the main place where Dev Deepawali is celebrated. Priests in saffron robes perform the grand Ganga Aarti with huge brass lamps. The sound of conch shells and bells travels in the air as they chant hymns in perfect time. The steps are covered with thousands of diyas that shine like stars that have fallen to Earth. It is amazing to see the show from a boat on the river, where the golden lights seem to go on forever. Being at the ceremony here feels like being in a living epic.
Location: Near Godowlia, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh – 221001
Distance From Varanasi Railway Station: 4.4 km
2. Assi Ghat
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Assi Ghat is known for its lively yet cultural side of Dev Deepawali. While it also glows with countless diyas, it stands apart because of the performances and activities held here. Classical music concerts, folk dances and storytelling sessions are organised, making it a festival for both the soul and the senses. Families and younger crowds prefer this location because it balances devotion with entertainment. The sounds of bhajans mix with the cheers of people enjoying plays and cultural recitals, creating a festive but still spiritual atmosphere.
Location: Assi, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh – 221005
Distance From Varanasi Railway Station: 6.1 km
3. Raj Ghat
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Raj Ghat presents a quieter but equally powerful experience of Dev Deepawali. Unlike the bustling Dashashwamedh, it is less crowded, giving space for visitors to immerse themselves in the spiritual ambiance. The aarti performed here is not as big, but it is just as powerful. The soft sounds of the chants and the lamps reflecting in the water make for a peaceful scene. From Raj Ghat, the view of the city lights meeting the river’s never-ending flow is like a painting come to life.
Location: Near Malviya Bridge, Rajghat, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh – 221001
Distance From Varanasi Railway Station: 8.7 km
4. Panchganga Ghat
Photo: juggadery / Wikimedia Commons
Named for the believed confluence of five sacred rivers, Panchganga Ghat carries a special symbolic weight during Dev Deepawali. On this night, its wide steps give visitors a panoramic view of thousands of floating lamps drifting along the Ganges. Pilgrims gather here to perform rituals, while travellers often sit quietly to take in the magnificent sight. The ghat combines spiritual depth with sweeping beauty, making it ideal for those who want a broad perspective of the festival.
Location: Panchganga Ghat Rd, Near Scindia Ghat, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh – 221001
Distance From Varanasi Railway Station: 7.9 km
5. Chet Singh Ghat
Photo: Ninara / Wikimedia Commons
Chet Singh Ghat is often missed by the bigger crowds, but it’s one of the most beautiful places to be during Dev Deepawali. The historic fort that stands tall over the ghat gives the lit lamps on the steps a sense of grandeur. People who are interested in history will enjoy the ghat’s link to Chet Singh, the Maratha ruler. People in the area light diyas along the walls of the fort during the festival, making the whole area a glowing display of history and devotion. This is a great place to go if you want to get away from the more crowded ghats because it combines history and celebration.
Location: Bhadaini, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh – 221001
Distance From Varanasi Railway Station: 5.3 km
Where To Eat
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Varanasi is famous for its street food, and during Dev Deepawali, the variety grows even more colourful. On the ghats and nearby streets, stalls serve hot kachoris with sabzi, jalebis dripping with syrup, and malaiyo, a seasonal sweet made with milk froth that appears only in winter. Chaat stands around Godowlia and Assi Ghat are still full of people from all over, both locals and tourists. The joy of eating here is not just the food but the lively atmosphere of festival nights, where every bite feels part of the celebration.
Where To Stay
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Luxury hotels near the ghats provide river-facing rooms where you can watch the celebrations from your balcony. Mid-range guesthouses around Assi Ghat and Godowlia are great for those seeking comfort and proximity without heavy costs. Backpacker hostels also flourish in Varanasi, making it perfect for meeting other travellers. Lots of homestays invite visitors to enjoy the warmth of local hospitality, with families happily showing guests the best places to check out during the festival. Being close to the ghats means you can fully enjoy the enchanting night-time glow that makes Dev Deepawali truly special.
How To Reach Varanasi For Dev Deepawali
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Planning to witness Dev Deepawali in Varanasi? Here’s how you can easily reach the spiritual city by air, train, or road from major Indian cities.
By Air: Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport connects Varanasi with major cities as well as some international destinations.
By Train: Varanasi Junction and Manduadih stations are well linked to Delhi, Kolkata, and Mumbai.
By Road: Regular buses and taxis run from nearby cities like Allahabad, Lucknow, and Patna.
Tips For Travellers
Make the most of your Dev Deepawali experience in Varanasi with these essential travel tips covering safety, crowd management, local customs, and best viewing spots.
- Arrive at least a day early to avoid last-minute stress.
- Carry warm clothes for evenings.
- Use local guides or boatmen for the best viewing spots.
- Respect rituals and avoid blocking pathways where diyas are placed.
- Keep cash handy because many vendors may not accept digital payments.
Dev Deepawali in Varanasi is more than a festival—it’s a glowing tradition of light, devotion, and community. With millions of diyas illuminating the ghats and soulful chants echoing through the night, the experience is unforgettable. Blending spirituality and culture, it offers a once-in-a-lifetime moment. Planning a trip in 2025? Let TripXL guide your journey to witness Varanasi in its most divine and timeless form.
Cover Photo: Himanshu Singh / Pexels
