Dev Deepawali — the "Diwali of the Gods" — is the most spectacular night in Varanasi. It falls on Kartik Purnima, the full moon roughly fifteen days after Diwali. Legend says the gods descend to bathe in the Ganga on this night, and the city lights up to welcome them.
What happens on Dev Deepawali?
- Lakhs of diyas are lit on every step of the ghats, from Ravidas Ghat to Raj Ghat.
- A grand Maha Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat with many more priests than usual.
- Fireworks over the river and laser/light shows on some ghats.
- Pilgrims take a holy dip in the Ganga at dawn on Kartik Purnima.
The best way to see it
From a boat. Seeing kilometres of glowing ghats from the river is unforgettable. But boats for Dev Deepawali are booked weeks or months in advance, and prices rise sharply. Shared boats and big bajras (double-decker boats) are both available.
Tips
- Book everything early — hotels, boats and trains.
- Reach the ghats by 4 PM if you plan to watch from the steps.
- Expect road closures and heavy crowds; walk wherever possible.
- Keep your group together and agree on a meeting point.
- Carry a light shawl — Kartik evenings get cool by the river.
Plan with us
We run special Dev Deepawali boat experiences each year with limited seats. Send us an enquiry to reserve your spot before they sell out.
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