Tips for Attending Dev Diwali in Varanasi

It is advised to reach the ghats well before sunset, ideally by 3:30 PM, as they fill up fast, especially Dashashwamedh and Assi Ghats. Early arrival not only guarantees a good viewing spot for the Ganga Aarti but also gives you time to walk around, click photos, and soak in the build-up. Street traffic and crowd control barricades may also delay access after 5 PM.

One of the top tips to visit Dev Diwali is to book your boat ride well in advance. Boat rides are in high demand during the festival, and last-minute bookings often lead to inflated prices or long queues. It is suggested to pre-booking your boat, especially for the evening slot, which offers the best view of the illuminated ghats and the grand aarti. You can choose between shared or private boats, with some offering guided commentary and music.

One of the most practical Dev Diwali tips is to prepare for heavy traffic, especially near Godowlia and Assi. Public vehicles aren’t allowed near the ghats after a point, so park in designated lots and walk. It’s wise to factor in at least 30–45 minutes of walking or waiting time, and wear comfortable footwear. Locals also suggest using e-rickshaws to navigate narrow lanes quicker.

One of the key tips for Dev Diwali is to book your accommodation well in advance. The festival pulls in lakhs of devotees and tourists from across India and abroad, so hotels fill up faster than you'd expect. Properties near the ghats, especially around Dashashwamedh and Assi Ghat, are usually booked out months ahead. To get a decent place at a reasonable rate, lock in your stay a good 4–6 weeks before the D-day. Waiting till the last minute might leave you high and dry or stuck with overpriced, low-quality options.

The Ganga Aarti on Dev Diwali is more elaborate than the daily ritual, with a large number of priests, added lighting, and thousands of earthen lamps. Dashashwamedh Ghat is the most popular spot, but it gets packed quickly. Assi Ghat and Rajendra Prasad Ghat are great alternatives with fewer crowds. Arrive early to secure a good view, or watch from a boat for a different perspective.

Walk along the ghats to witness thousands of lit diyas, rangolis, and cultural displays. Dashashwamedh and Raj Ghat are known for large-scale arrangements, while Assi Ghat hosts music and dance performances. Locals light lamps to honour ancestors, so walk respectfully and avoid stepping over diya setups. Ghats closer to Manikarnika may be quieter but still beautifully decorated

Kashi Vishwanath Temple is especially busy during Dev Diwali, so visit early morning or late evening to avoid long queues. The temple holds special rituals and darshan arrangements. Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple and Durga Kund are also worth visiting for their lighting and devotional music. Dress modestly, carry only essentials, and keep footwear in designated stalls.

While it’s tempting to capture every glowing frame, always ask before photographing people, particularly during pujas or private rituals. Tips to visit Dev Diwali include avoiding flash photography during the Ganga Aarti or inside temples, as it can disturb the spiritual environment. Use zoom lenses or wide-angle settings to photograph from a respectful distance. For better candids, blend into the crowd and avoid interrupting the moment with loud camera clicks.

Dev Diwali is more than a visual spectacle, it’s a deeply personal and religious festival for locals. Avoid talking loudly or joking near puja areas. Manikarnika Ghat, an active cremation site, should be approached with utmost respect, don’t click photos, don’t point, and keep your distance. Follow locals’ lead, remove footwear where required, and refrain from climbing on structures for a better view.

Security checks are tight, the crowd is thick, and the ghats get packed shoulder-to-shoulder. Some of the tips to visit Dev Diwali are to travel light, you don’t want to be lugging around heavy bags or risk losing personal items in the chaos. Carry just the essentials: your mobile, wallet, a small bottle of water, and maybe a portable charger. Avoid wearing expensive jewellery and opt for comfy footwear you can slip off easily, as many ghats require you to walk barefoot.