Dev Deepawali 2025, also known as the “Diwali of the Gods,” is a spectacular Hindu festival celebrated with grandeur in Varanasi, India. This year, Dev Deepawali will be celebrated on November 5, 2025. So if you will be in Varanasi on this date, get ready to witness the ghats of the Ganges River illuminated with millions of diyas, creating a breathtaking spectacle. From the best ghats to witness the celebrations to accommodation, here is a well-curated Dev Deepawali 2025 guide for you!
Dev Deepawali 2025
Dev Deepawali or Dev Diwali marks Lord Shiva’s victory over the demon Tripurasura and is observed on the full moon night of the Kartik month. The lighting of millions of diyas on the ghats in Varanasi symbolizes devotion, spiritual cleansing, and the triumph of good over evil.
The main celebrations include the glowing aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, accompanied by devotional chants, cultural performances, boat parades with illuminated boats, and sacred baths in the Ganges.
The festival also celebrates the cultural expressions of Varanasi, such as classical music performances, dance, and patriotic tributes that take place at these ghats, making them the heart of the Dev Deepawali experience.
Best Ghats To Witness The Magic Of Dev Deepawali 2025
Dashashwamedh Ghat
This is the main hub of the Ganga Aarti in Varanasi, which hosts the grandest evening puja with priests in sync and thousands of diyas. The evening aarti usually starts around 5:15 pm and goes till 7:50 pm.
Scindia Ghat
Scindia Ghat is beautifully illuminated with countless diyas, contributing to the riverfront’s spectacular glow and serving as a vibrant space for ritualistic and cultural activities during Dev Deepawali.
Assi Ghat
Known for its spiritual vibe, Assi Ghat is an important site for devotional gatherings and aarti, where devotees light lamps in unison, creating a serene and holy atmosphere during the festival.
Rajendra Prasad Ghat
This ghat is known as an overflow zone to Dashashwamedh, and Rajendra Prasad Ghat offers excellent views. This ghat hosts patriotic ceremonies alongside devotional rituals, offering a unique visual of devotion during Dev Deepawali’s celebrations.
Manikarnika Ghat
As one of the holiest ghats for spiritual cleansing, Manikarnika Ghat is illuminated with lamps symbolizing purification and the triumph of light over darkness on Dev Deepawali.
Accommodation for Dev Deepwali 2025
Varanasi has a varied range of accommodation options for you to choose from based on your budget and needs.
Heritage and Boutique Hotels
Brijrama Palace
Built in 1812 by Shridhara Narayana Munshi, this historic palace overlooks Darbhanga Ghat and is known for its Maratha architecture and India’s first hydraulic lift. It is now a luxury heritage hotel offering panoramic views of the Ganges and showcasing royal elegance.
Address: Darbhanga Ghat, Dashashwamedh, Uttar Pradesh
Cost per night: Approx. INR 24,750
Guleria Kothi
Guleria Kothi is a heritage mansion in Varanasi known for its blend of traditional Indian architecture and colonial influences. It serves as a boutique hotel that provides an authentic cultural experience reflecting the old-world charm of the city.
Address: CK 1, Patni Tola, 14, Ram Ghat Rd, near Ganesh Mandir Ghat, Govindpura, Varanasi
Cost per night: Approx. INR 11,000
Hotels
Alka Hotel
Hotel Alka in Varanasi is a 3-star hotel located near Dashashwamedh Ghat, offering stunning Ganges river views and easy access to major temples.
Address: D3/23, Meer Ghat, Dashashwamedh
Cost per night: Approx. INR 1,500
JSR Hotel
Hotel BSR in Varanasi is a budget-friendly hotel situated close to major attractions like the Ganges and Kashi Vishwanath Temple. It offers comfortable rooms and essential amenities tailored for travelers seeking convenience and value.
Address: D.18/9, Brahmpuri Lane, &, Ahilyabai Ghat, near Sheetala Ghat, Dashashwamedh, Varanasi
Cost per night: Approx. INR 1,500
Budget Travel Packages
If you hate planning, you can anytime opt for budget travel packages that will take care of your accommodations and experiences on a budget.
Luxury Travel Packages
These packages are similar to budget travel packages but with the luxury aspect included. This includes VIP event access, exclusive boat rides, and private transportation.
Travel Tips For Dev Deepawali 2025
- Accommodations and boat rides get fully booked months in advance due to the massive tourist inflow during the festival. Make sure you book your rooms and boat rides 2 months in advance.
- For the Dashashwamedh Ghat aarti, reach by around 4 pm, even though the aarti begins at 5:15 pm, to secure a good viewing spot.
- Wear comfortable footwear that is suitable for walking long distances. Also, make sure that you dress decently in clothes respectful of the religious atmosphere.
- Avoid carrying heavy bags or valuables like gold ornaments or cash. You can take a mobile phone, a wallet, and a water bottle.
- Be aware of your surroundings and keep your personal belongings safe.
Celebrations
- Devotees take a bath in the sacred Ganga River, as it is believed that a bath can wash away all their sins and bring prosperity.
- Lighting clay diyas on the ghat and attending the Ganga aarti is one of the biggest attractions during this festival.
- People can be seen participating in religious activities like chanting devotional mantras.
- Taking a boat ride along the ghats during the aarti offers a magical view of the glowing lamps, chants, and rituals, often considered the best way to experience the event.
- Alongside the religious ceremonies, you can witness local music, dance, and fireworks over the river.
- People relish traditional sweets like laddoos, barfis, and savory kachoris here. These dishes are popular offerings or prasad distributed here.
Summing Up
Experience the rich cultural heritage of India during Dev Deepawali 2025. This festival is a celebration of light, devotion, and unity, with millions of diyas lighting up the ghats of Varanasi. With grand Ganga Aarti, traditions, cultural performances, delicious sweet dishes, and the vibrant energy of the city, don’t miss this opportunity to be a part of this experience.
