Varanasi is gearing up for its most spectacular night, Dev Deepawali. On November 24, 2026, millions of diyas will illuminate the ghats in a breathtaking display. Here’s how to plan your visit for this unforgettable festival of lights.
Understanding the 'Diwali of the Gods'
Dev Deepawali, also
known as Tripurotsav, is celebrated on Kartik Purnima, the full moon night fifteen days after the main Diwali festival. According to legend, on this day the gods descend to Earth to bathe in the holy Ganges. The festival also commemorates Lord Shiva's victory over the demon Tripurasura. To welcome the deities, the city's 84 ghats are transformed into a continuous ribbon of light, with over a million earthen lamps (diyas) flickering along the steps, creating a mesmerising reflection on the river. This tradition turns Varanasi into a celestial city, drawing hundreds of thousands of pilgrims and tourists from across the globe.
Key Events and Rituals
The festivities begin at sunset as volunteers and devotees light millions of diyas across every ghat, a ritual known as 'deepdaan'. The main event is the grand Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, which is an amplified version of the daily ceremony. It features a larger contingent of priests performing synchronized rituals with massive brass lamps, incense, and the sound of conch shells echoing across the water. Beyond the main aarti, many ghats host their own cultural programs, including classical music and dance performances. Another patriotic tradition involves paying tribute to martyrs at Dashashwamedh Ghat, where wreaths are laid at the Amar Jawan Jyoti. Later in the evening, a spectacular laser and light show often takes place at Chet Singh Ghat.
Aarti Timings and Best Viewing Spots
The Dev Deepawali celebrations start after sunset, around 5:30 PM on November 24, 2026. The grand Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat typically begins between 6:00 PM and 6:45 PM. Given the enormous crowds, securing a good viewing spot on land requires arriving by 3:30 PM to 4:00 PM. Dashashwamedh and Assi Ghat are the most popular, and therefore the most crowded. For a slightly less chaotic experience, consider smaller ghats like Rajendra Prasad Ghat, which offer a more intimate view of the proceedings. However, the ultimate vantage point is undoubtedly from the water.
The Magical Boat Ride Experience
A boat ride offers an unparalleled, panoramic view of all 84 illuminated ghats, the Ganga Aarti, and the fireworks. It is also the most comfortable and safest way to witness the spectacle, away from the dense crowds on the steps. Booking is absolutely essential and should be done weeks, if not months, in advance, as 95% of boats are reserved before the festival night. Prices for 2026 are expected to range from around ₹3,500 per person for a shared motorboat to upwards of ₹75,000 for a private boat. Most boat tours depart from designated points like Ravidas Ghat or Gaay Ghat by 4:00 PM to secure a good position on the river before traffic restrictions begin.
Navigating the City and Crowds
Varanasi expects over half a million visitors for Dev Deepawali, leading to immense crowds and traffic restrictions. Vehicle movement near the ghats is prohibited from the afternoon, so be prepared to walk significant distances on crowded, narrow streets. It is advisable to wear comfortable footwear. If you're traveling in a group, establish a meeting point in case you get separated, as mobile networks are often congested. Arrive at your chosen ghat or boat boarding point early, carry water, and keep your belongings secure. For safety, it's best to stick to one area rather than trying to move between multiple crowded ghats during the peak evening hours.
