As the full moon rises over the Ganga, Varanasi prepares for an evening when its riverfront is lit up with thousands of earthen lamps. Dev Deepawali, observed 15 days after Diwali, draws pilgrims and tourists to the city's historic ghats for prayers, rituals and celebrations.
According to Hindu belief, the gods descend to Varanasi on Kartik Purnima to bathe in the Ganga. The festival also marks Lord Shiva's victory over the demon Tripurasura, which is why it is known as Tripurari Purnima. Unlike Diwali, which celebrates Lord Ram's return to Ayodhya, Dev Deepawali is centred on the Ganga and the sacred ghats of Varanasi.
When is Dev Deepawali 2026?
Dev Deepawali will be celebrated on Tuesday, November 24, 2026, coinciding with Kartik Purnima, the full moon day of the Hindu month of Kartik, according to Drik Panchang.
The main festivities take place in the evening as diyas illuminate the riverfront. Visitors planning to attend should reach their chosen ghats well before sunset, as popular locations tend to draw large crowds.
Ganga Aarti and other attractions
The Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat is among the key events of the evening. Priests perform synchronised rituals with large brass lamps as devotional chants and temple bells fill the surroundings.
For first-time visitors, reaching the ghat early is important to secure a viewing spot and navigate the crowds. Assi Ghat is another option, with cafés and tea stalls in the surrounding neighbourhood.
Chet Singh Ghat, known for its fort-like architecture, offers views of the illuminated riverfront. Panchganga Ghat, associated with the confluence of five sacred rivers, provides another setting to observe the celebrations. Rajghat and Sant Ravidas Ghat are also worth considering, although crowd levels can vary.
Explore Varanasi beyond the riverfront
A boat ride on the Ganga offers a view of the illuminated ghats from the water. Since demand can be high during the festival, advance booking is advisable. Visitors should also follow local safety instructions.
Beyond the ghats, Varanasi's narrow lanes, temples, musical performances and processions offer more opportunities to explore the city. Tulsi Ghat is associated with poet-saint Tulsidas, while Ramnagar, across the river, provides a different view of the illuminated skyline. Visitors can also explore temples such as Trilochan Mahadev and Kedareshwar.