Imagine watching thousands of earthen lamps light up the banks of the Ganga while their reflections dance on the river. This is what makes Dev Diwali in Varanasi special. Celebrated with great devotion, the festival brings the city’s ghats, temples and streets to life. If you plan to witness this celebration in 2026, this redBus guide will help you know when is Dev Deepavali, its rituals, and best ghats to visit.
Dev Diwali 2026 Date and Time
Dev Diwali 2026 falls on Tuesday, 24 November 2026, on the occasion of Kartik Purnima. Here are the important timings for the festival in Varanasi:
- Festival Date: Tuesday, 24 November 2026
- Purnima Tithi Begins: 11:42 PM on 23 November 2026
- Purnima Tithi Ends: 8:23 PM on 24 November 2026
- Pradosh Kaal Muhurat: 5:08 PM to 7:47 PM
What Is Dev Diwali?
Dev Diwali, also known as Dev Deepawali, means the Diwali of the gods. It takes place on the full moon day of the Hindu month of Kartik, around 15 days after the main Diwali celebration. While Diwali celebrates Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya, Dev Diwali holds a special connection with Lord Shiva.
According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva defeated the demon Tripurasura on this day. The demon had gained control over three cities and troubled the gods. Lord Shiva destroyed these three cities and restored peace. The gods celebrated his victory by lighting lamps, which gave the festival its name. People also call it Tripurari Purnima or Tripurotsav.
Varanasi Dev Diwali holds special importance in Varanasi, also known as Kashi, as devotees consider the city sacred to Lord Shiva. According to popular belief, the gods descend to Earth on Kartik Purnima to bathe in the holy Ganga. They light lamps along the riverbanks to celebrate the occasion.
How Dev Diwali is Celebrated In Varanasi
The celebrations combine religious rituals, cultural performances and community participation. Some of the main traditions include:
- Ganga Snam
Devotees take an early morning dip in the River Ganga. They believe this holy bath on Kartik Purnima cleanses sins and brings blessings.
- Deep Daan
Lighting and offering earthen lamps is one of the most important rituals. People place diyas along the ghat steps, temples and riverbanks. Some also float small lamps on the Ganga as an offering.
- Ganga Aarti
Priests perform grand aartis at important ghats, especially Dashashwamedh Ghat. The sound of bells, conch shells, chants and devotional songs creates a spiritual atmosphere.
- Temple Decorations
People decorate temples with flowers, lights and diyas. Devotees visit temples to offer prayers to Lord Shiva and other deities.
- Cultural Programmes
Visitors can also enjoy classical music, traditional dance, folk performances and other cultural events organised during the festival period.
- Community Participation
Local residents, volunteers and religious groups help arrange lamps and decorations across the ghats. Their participation makes the celebration a city-wide event.
Best Ghats to Watch Dev Diwali
Each ghat offers a different view of Dev Diwali celebration. Here are some popular options to consider:
- Dashashwamedh Ghat
This is one of the most popular places to witness Dev Diwali. It hosts the famous Ganga Aarti, where priests perform coordinated rituals with large fire lamps.
- Assi Ghat
Assi Ghat offers a lively atmosphere and beautiful views of the illuminated river. It is also a popular spot for morning prayers and cultural activities.
- Rajendra Prasad Ghat
Located next to Dashashwamedh Ghat, this ghat offers a good view of the main aarti and the decorated riverfront. It is another busy viewing spot.
- Chet Singh Ghat
Known for its historic fort-like structure, this ghat offers a beautiful setting for watching the lamps. It has also hosted light and projection shows during past celebrations.
- Panchganga Ghat
This historic ghat is known for its religious importance and traditional atmosphere. It is a good option if you want to experience the devotional side of the festival away from the busy ghats.
How to Reach Varanasi for Dev Diwali
Varanasi has good air, rail and road connectivity. However, the city attracts large crowds during Dev Diwali, so plan your journey well in advance.
- Reach Varanasi Airport
Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS) connects Varanasi with several major Indian cities. You can find flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru and other cities, depending on the airline schedule. The airport is around 25 km from the main city areas. You can hire a prepaid taxi or book a cab to reach your hotel.
- Reach Varanasi Station
Travelling by train is another convenient option. Varanasi Junction (BSB), also known as Varanasi Cantt, is a major railway station with connections to several parts of India. Banaras Railway Station (BSBS) and Kashi Railway Station (KEI) are other options.
- Travel in the City by Local Transport
Once you reach Varanasi, you can use auto-rickshaws, e-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws and app-based cabs to travel around. However, there may be traffic near the ghats on Dev Diwali. You may need to walk some distance to reach the riverfront.
Travel Tips for Dev Diwali
A little planning can make your festival visit much easier. Keep these practical tips in mind:
- Book Tickets Early
Reserve your flight, train or bus tickets several weeks in advance. Demand rises sharply around the festival.
- Reserve Your Hotel
Choose accommodation near the ghats if you want easy access to the celebrations. Book early because hotels often fill up quickly.
- Reach the Ghats Early
Try to reach your chosen ghat by the afternoon. Popular spots become crowded before sunset.
- Carry Warm Clothing
Carry a light jacket or shawl, especially if you plan to stay near the river, since evenings can get cold around this time.
- Wear Comfortable Footwear
You may need to walk through narrow lanes and crowded streets. Comfortable shoes or sandals can make the journey easier.
- Keep Your Belongings Safe
Carry only essential items and keep your phone, wallet and travel documents secure.
- Follow Local Instructions
Pay attention to police announcements, barricades and boat safety rules. Avoid overcrowded boats and follow photography restrictions near cremation ghats.
Places to Visit Near Varanasi
If you have extra time, explore these places to understand Varanasi’s religious, historical and cultural heritage.
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple
This famous temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of Varanasi’s most important religious sites. Visit the temple to seek blessings and explore the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor.
- Sarnath
Sarnath is located around 10 km from Varanasi. It is an important Buddhist pilgrimage site. Gautama Buddha delivered his first sermon here after attaining enlightenment. Visit the Dhamek Stupa, archaeological museum and nearby monasteries.
- Ramnagar Fort
Located across the Ganga, this historic fort served as the former Maharaja of Banaras’s residence. It houses a museum with vintage cars, weapons, royal collections and old clocks.
- Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple
Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, this temple attracts devotees year-round. People visit to offer prayers and seek protection from difficulties.
- Bharat Kala Bhavan
Located inside Banaras Hindu University, this museum houses an interesting collection of paintings, sculptures, textiles and historical objects. It is a good place to explore India’s art and cultural history.
FAQs
- When is Dev Deepawali in 2026?
Dev Deepawali will take place on Tuesday, 24 November 2026. It falls on Kartik Purnima, the full moon day of the Hindu month of Kartik, around 15 days after Diwali.
2. Is Dev Diwali and Diwali the same?
No. Diwali falls on the Amavasya (new moon) of Kartik, while Dev Diwali falls on Kartik Purnima (full moon). The two festivals mark different religious events and have separate celebrations.
3. Is there any entry fee to watch Dev Diwali in Varanasi?
No, visitors can generally watch the celebrations from the public ghats without an entry fee. However, private boat rides, special seating arrangements and hotel terrace experiences involve additional charges.
4. Can I watch Dev Diwali from a boat?
Yes, you can book a boat ride on the Ganga to see the illuminated ghats from the river. Book through a reliable operator and check the permitted timings, safety arrangements and fares.
5. How many days should I spend in Varanasi during Dev Diwali?
A two to three-day trip is ideal. It gives you enough time to explore the temples, visit Sarnath, experience the ghats and enjoy the main Dev Diwali celebrations without rushing.
6. Why should I choose redBus to book my bus tickets?
redBus lets you compare bus operators, fares, departure times and available seats in one place. It also offers features such as live bus tracking, customer support and eligible cancellation options.
