On Dev Diwali, almost the entire riverfront of Varanasi comes alive with rows of diyas. Every ghat has its own atmosphere, but some places stand out for their views, traditions and location along the Ganga.
1. Dashashwamedh Ghat
Dashashwamedh Ghat is one of the most important places to experience Dev Diwali and is closely associated with the grand Ganga Maha Aarti. On the festival evening, the ghat becomes beautifully illuminated with countless diyas and fills with devotees and visitors.
If you want to experience the Maha Aarti, this is one of the main places to be.
2. Assi Ghat
Located at the southern end of the main ghat stretch, Assi Ghat offers a beautiful view of the Ganga and the illuminated riverfront. It is also known for its cultural and spiritual atmosphere.
On Dev Diwali, the ghat becomes very lively and crowded. Reaching early gives you more time to find a comfortable spot and enjoy the evening.
3. Chet Singh Ghat
Chet Singh Ghat is known for its historic fort like structure and beautiful position along the Ganga. During Dev Diwali, the illuminated ghat creates a striking view, especially as the evening lights begin to reflect on the river.
Its historic architecture also makes it a wonderful place to experience the traditional side of Varanasi while enjoying the festive atmosphere.
4. Panchganga Ghat
Panchganga Ghat is one of the spiritually significant ghats of Varanasi and has a distinct atmosphere compared with the busier central ghats.
During Dev Diwali, its steps and surroundings glow with diyas. The traditional Akashdeep associated with this part of Varanasi adds another beautiful element to the evening.
5. Raj Ghat
Raj Ghat is one of the larger and more open ghats of Varanasi and is also an important road connected point at the northern end of the main riverfront.
It can be a good starting point for exploring Dev Diwali on foot. From here, you can gradually walk along the ghats, watching the rows of diyas and the changing atmosphere as you move towards the central riverfront.
If you want to light a diya yourself, you may also find opportunities around the nearby residential areas, where the atmosphere can feel more relaxed than the busiest central ghats.
A Tip for Dev Diwali
The famous traditional ghats are also the places where you will find the heaviest crowds. As the evening progresses, reaching or moving around the most popular ghats can become difficult.
But you don’t necessarily have to stand at one of the famous ghats to enjoy Dev Diwali.
The diyas, fireworks and illuminated riverfront can be seen from many other ghats and stretches along the Ganga. Choosing a less crowded spot can make the evening much more comfortable while still giving you beautiful views of the celebration.
Experience Dev Diwali by Boat
If you really want to experience the scale of Dev Diwali, experiencing it from a Boat on the Ganga can be something special.
From the river, you can see the long stretch of illuminated ghats instead of being limited to one particular ghat. You can also witness the Ganga Maha Aarti around Dashashwamedh Ghat and enjoy the lights and celebrations from the water.
As the crowd increases, reaching the central ghats on foot can become extremely difficult. A pre-arranged boat gives you a different vantage point and allows you to enjoy the celebration without having to move through the most crowded areas.
If Dev Diwali is the main reason for your visit, Booking Your Boat well in advance is a good idea. The better boats and viewing positions can be booked well before the festival.