New Delhi: Dev Diwali or Dev Deepawali is one of the spiritually uplifting festivals of India, celebrated by Hindus on the ghats of the holy city of Varanasi. Observed 15 days after Diwali, it marks Lord Shiva’s triumph over the demon Tripurasura and is believed to be the day when the gods descend to the Ganga to bathe in its sacred water. On this festive evening, over a million oil lamps are lit across the riverfront, transforming the ghats into an ethereal sight. Falling on November 5 in 2025, this festival takes place on the full moon night of Kartik Purnima.
Dev Diwali is significant as Lord Shiva frees the world from darkness and evil. This divine victory is remembered every year with devotion, lights, music, and rituals. Visitors, tourists, locals, photographers and devotees from across the globe gather to witness this once-a-year spectacle. While all the 84 ghats are illuminated, some are the most popular to experience the unparalleled magic of Dev Deepawali in Varanasi. Scroll down to know more.
Explore best ghats for Dev Diwali celebrations in Varanasi
Here are the popular ghats to explore during Dev Diwali 2025 in Varanasi.
1. Dashashwamedh Ghat
Dashashwamedh Ghat, the focal point of Dev Deepawali, witnesses the grandest Ganga Aarti with priests performing synchronised rituals. Here, the main highlight is the spectacle of thousands of lit diyas, which create a golden aura, while fireworks light up the sky, making it the most iconic spot of the festival.
2. Assi Ghat
Assi Ghat, a vibrant hub, hosts cultural events like devotional songs and yoga sessions during the day. In the evening, the entire ghat sparkles with rows of diyas and becomes a favourite backdrop for photographers capturing the reflections on the water.
3. Manikarnika Ghat
Manikarnika Ghat, well-known as one of the holiest cremation sites, transforms into a different site during Diwali. The amazing view of sacred flames blending with countless diyas along the ghat embodies the union of life, death, and divinity, offering a deeply spiritual atmosphere.
4. Panchganga Ghat
Panchganga Ghat, revered as the confluence of five holy rivers, attracts devotees seeking blessings. On Dev Deepawali, this ghat dazzles with diyas and becomes a point of chanting and religious gatherings, creating a calm and serene yet powerful ambience.
5. Tulsi Ghat
Tulsi Ghat, connected with the famous poet-saint Tulsidas, reflects a blend of literature and devotion. Earthen lamps light up the steps and temples here, offering a calm and serene experience away from the rush of the main ghats, ideal for those seeking peace.
Varanasi’s Dev Deepawali is not just a festival. It’s a divine experience of light and spiritual awakening. Each ghat, with its aura and unique story, lends to the grandeur of this celestial night. In 2025, let the ghats of Varanasi be your cultural tourism destination under a million lights.