Ever thought what it’s like when heaven lights up the earth? That’s the magical charm of Dev Deepawali in Varanasi, a must-have in many Events and Festival Tour Packages.
Falling on Kartik Purnima, just fifteen days after Diwali, this festival celebrates Lord Shiva’s triumph over the demon Tripurasura. Legend says the gods descend to the sacred ghats on this very night, making it one of the most divine and breathtaking festivals in India. From the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti and thousands of diyas illuminating the ghats to soulful cultural performances and enchanting boat rides, the city glows like never before.
Curious to be part of this unforgettable spectacle? Stay tuned as we uncover everything you need to know—festival dates, rituals, top ghats, must-do experiences, and insider travel tips!
Date and Location of Dev Deepawali in Varanasi 2025
Dev Deepawali Date 2025: Wednesday, November 5, 2025 (Kartik Purnima – the full moon night, 15 days after Diwali)
Location: Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, across the sacred ghats of the Ganges River
- Dev Deepawali 2025 Timings:
- Best Time for Diya Lighting (Pradosh Kaal): 5:15 PM – 7:50 PM IST
- Purnima Tithi Begins: November 4, 2025, at 10:36 PM IST
- Purnima Tithi Ends: November 5, 2025, at 6:48 PM IST
- Main Celebration: November 5, 2025
Why is Dev Deepawali Celebrated in Varanasi?
Celebrated on Kartik Purnima, Dev Deepawali holds deep mythological and spiritual roots. It marks Lord Shiva’s victory over the demon Tripurasura, who spread fear across the three worlds. In his form of Tripurari, Shiva destroyed him with a single arrow.
According to legend, the gods themselves descended to the ghats of Kashi to honor this victory and took a holy dip in the Ganges. To welcome them, the people of Varanasi lit thousands of lamps along the riverbanks—a tradition that continues even today.
Now, every year, Varanasi transforms into a “City of Lights”, glowing with millions of diyas and resonating with chants, aartis, and cultural festivities. Devotees perform Kartik Snan (holy bath), Deepdan (lamp offering), and pujas dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. Beyond rituals, the evening is filled with music, dance, and joy, making it a festival of both faith and celebration.
Rituals & Highlights of Dev Deepawali in Varanasi
Here are the sacred rituals and unique traditions that make this festival so special:
- Kartik Snan: Devotees take a holy dip in the Ganga at dawn, believed to cleanse sins and invite blessings.
- Deepdan: In the evening, thousands of oil lamps are offered to the Ganges, creating a magical glow.
- Grand Ganga Aarti: Performed with conch shells, drums, and chants by priests at the ghats.
- Tribute to Martyrs: At Dashashwamedh and Rajendra Prasad Ghats, the Army, Navy, and Air Force lay wreaths, play the Last Post, and honor soldiers with patriotic songs and awards.
The festival begins on Prabodhini Ekadashi and concludes on Kartik Poornima, spanning five days of devotion and celebration.
Festival Highlights
- Over a million diyas light up the ghats, temples, and homes of Varanasi.
- Devotees chant hymns, offer prayers, and celebrate with drums and conch shells.
- Evening boat rides along the river provide stunning views of the illuminated ghats.
- Around one lakh devotees and tourists gather to witness this spectacular event.
- The Ganga Aarti is performed by 21 priests and 24 women, adding grandeur to the spiritual atmosphere.
Ganga Mahotsav Alongside Dev Deepawali
Parallel to Dev Deepawali, Varanasi also celebrates the five-day Ganga Mahotsav. This cultural festival showcases the city’s vibrant heritage through:
- Classical music and dance performances
- Shilp Mela (arts & crafts fair)
- Country boat races and martial arts displays
- Sculpture exhibitions and folk shows
The final day, coinciding with Kartik Poornima, turns the ghats into a glowing paradise with millions of lamps shimmering on the riverbanks.
Things to Do During Dev Deepawali in Varanasi
Make the most of your trip by immersing in these top experiences:
- Take a Holy Dip (Kartik Snan): Start your day with a sacred bath in the Ganges.
- Participate in Deepdan: Light diyas along the ghats and join the collective glow.
- Attend Ganga Aarti: Witness the divine ceremony of lights, chants, and music.
- Evening Boat Ride: Float on the Ganges for an unmatched view of illuminated ghats.
- Enjoy Cultural Performances: Experience classical dance, music, and folk art.
- Shop & Eat Local: Explore Varanasi’s bustling markets and taste local delicacies.
Travel Tips for Dev Deepawali in Varanasi
Here’s how to plan a smooth and memorable visit:
- Book Early: November is peak season—reserve hotels and tickets in advance.
- Stay Near the Ghats: Opt for a riverside stay at Dashashwamedh or Assi Ghat.
- Arrive a Day Before: Helps you settle in before the festival rush.
- Choose Safe Boat Rides: Prefer reliable operators for evening rides.
- Pack Wisely: Carry warm clothes, comfy footwear, and a power bank.
- Respect Customs: Participate with devotion, avoid blocking rituals, and be mindful when taking photos.
- Stay Safe in Crowds: Keep valuables secure and stick with companions.
How to Reach Varanasi
Varanasi is well connected, making it easy for travelers to witness Dev Deepawali 2025:
- By Air: Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (26 km from city center) has direct flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, and more.
- By Train: Varanasi Junction connects the city to all major Indian cities.
- By Road: National highways and regular buses from Lucknow, Allahabad, and Patna make road travel convenient. Private taxis are also available.
Final Words
If there’s one festival that blends spiritual devotion, cultural heritage, and breathtaking beauty, it’s Dev Deepawali in Varanasi 2025. On November 5, as millions of diyas shimmer across the ghats and chants echo through the night, you’ll witness why this celebration is unlike any other.
For travelers, the key is preparation—book your stay early, arrive before the crowds, and secure your spot on a ghat or boat. Because Dev Deepawali isn’t just a festival—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime memory where faith meets light, and Varanasi becomes heaven on earth.
