Dev Deepawali Varanasi is one of the most photographed nights in India, when the ghats of the Ganga glow with lakhs of earthen lamps. In 2026 it falls on Tuesday, 24 November, which is Kartik Purnima. Here is how to plan the trip, pick a ghat and avoid the usual crowd mistakes.
Quick answer
- Date: Tuesday, 24 November 2026, on Kartik Purnima.
- Purnima tithi: roughly 11:42 PM on 23 November to 8:23 PM on 24 November, per Drik Panchang.
- Main event: lamps lit on the ghats after dusk and a grand Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat.
- Sunset: around 5:07 PM, so reach the ghats by mid afternoon.
- Book early: rooms, flights and boats fill up fast.
What happens on Dev Deepawali in Varanasi
Dev Deepawali is separate from Diwali. It comes about fifteen days after Diwali, on Kartik Purnima. Pilgrims take a holy dip at dawn, around sunrise at 6:21 AM.
After sunset, the ghats are lit with lamps. Small leaf boats carrying lamps and flowers float on the river, and temples including Kashi Vishwanath are decorated. According to Hindutone’s festival guide, the evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat is held on a very large scale.
Panchang timings can differ by a minute or two between sources. So check the local announcements closer to the date.
Which ghat should you pick for Dev Deepawali Varanasi
Varanasi has 84 ghats, and each gives a different experience. Your choice decides whether you enjoy the night or spend it in a crush.
- Dashashwamedh: the most famous and the most crowded. Expect to arrive two to three hours early.
- Rajendra Prasad Ghat: next to Dashashwamedh, with good views and a little more space.
- Assi: calmer, with a strong spiritual feel and a morning aarti.
- Panchganga: known for its historic lamp tower.
If you want a quieter evening, choose Assi or Rajendra Prasad. If you want the full spectacle, accept the crowd and plan around it.
Watch from the steps or from a boat
You can watch from the ghat steps, which is free but dense. Or you can take a boat, which is usually more comfortable but fills up early. In either case, a travel guide on Happyfares advises booking well ahead. Also, wear a life jacket on the boat, stay seated and follow police and volunteer instructions.
How to reach Varanasi
Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport at Babatpur serves the city. The main railway stations are Varanasi Junction (Cantt) and Kashi. Because this is a peak night, book flights and trains as early as you can.
If you are already planning a winter trip, our guide to the Air India Express winter schedule may help you spot new routes. Meanwhile, Chhath Puja falls on 13 to 16 November, so rooms near the river may be tight across both dates.
On the day: a practical plan
- Take the dawn dip only if you are comfortable with cold water and crowds.
- Rest in the afternoon, then leave for the ghats by mid afternoon.
- Expect vehicle restrictions near the riverfront in the evening, and walk the last stretch.
- Settle at your chosen ghat well before sunset.
- Stay until the aarti ends, then walk back slowly with the crowd.
What to carry
Shoes with a good grip help on wet steps. Modest clothing is respectful at temples, and a light warm layer helps because river evenings turn cool. Also carry small cash, water and snacks. Keep your phone and wallet secure, and agree on a meeting point with your group in case you get separated.
Planning a longer trip? Our guide to the Tawang travel guide shows how we think about permits and timing for another winter journey.
FAQ
When is Dev Deepawali 2026 in Varanasi?
Dev Deepawali 2026 is on Tuesday, 24 November, the day of Kartik Purnima. The Purnima tithi runs from about 11:42 PM on 23 November to about 8:23 PM on 24 November.
Which is the best ghat to see Dev Deepawali?
Dashashwamedh Ghat has the biggest aarti, but it is also the most crowded. Assi and Rajendra Prasad ghats are better for a calmer view.
Is Dev Deepawali the same as Diwali?
No. Dev Deepawali comes about fifteen days after Diwali, on Kartik Purnima, and is celebrated mainly in Varanasi with lamps along the Ganga.