When is Dev Deepawali in Varanasi?
Dev Deepawali is celebrated on Kartik Purnima, the full moon about fifteen days after Diwali. In 2026 it falls on 24 November, according to Drik Panchang for Varanasi. The ghats are lit with lakhs of oil lamps and the Ganga Aarti is at its grandest. Expect enormous crowds and book boats and rooms early.
When it falls
- Usually
- November (about fifteen days after Diwali)
- Calendar basis
- Kartik Purnima (full moon of Kartik)
- Upcoming date
- 24 November (2026)
On this page
Meaning
What happens
- Lamps on every ghat — lakhs of diyas along the riverfront from Assi to Rajghat.
- Grand Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh and other ghats.
- Kartik snan — bathing in the Ganga at dawn.
- Fireworks and cultural programmes, especially in recent years.
The festival has grown enormously since the late 20th century and is now one of India's most visited festivals.
Where to watch
| Spot | Notes |
|---|---|
| Boat on the river | The best view of the lit ghats; book well ahead, prices rise sharply |
| Ghat steps | Atmospheric but extremely crowded |
| Rooftops and hotel terraces | Good overview; often ticketed |
Tips
- Book accommodation and boats months in advance.
- Vehicle restrictions are extensive; plan to walk.
- Keep valuables secure; crowds are dense.
- Use boat operators who provide life jackets, and avoid overloaded boats.
Frequently asked questions
When is Dev Deepawali 2026?
24 November 2026 (Kartik Purnima), according to Drik Panchang for Varanasi.
What is the best way to see Dev Deepawali?
From a boat on the river, booked well in advance.
Sources and further reading
We link to primary and authoritative sources. External links open in a new tab.
- Drik Panchang — Hindu festival dates for Varanasi (opens in a new tab)
Drik Panchang — Reference work, checked September 2026
- Uttar Pradesh Tourism — Varanasi (opens in a new tab)
Department of Tourism, Government of Uttar Pradesh — Government source, checked September 2026
- Ghats in Varanasi (encyclopaedia entry with cited references) (opens in a new tab)
Wikipedia — Reference work, checked September 2026
Written and maintained by the KashiVishwanathTemple.net Editorial Team. Last updated . Found an error? Tell us — see our editorial policy.
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