Dev Deepawali 2026 Varanasi Boat Ride: See the Ganga Ghats Light Up
Varanasi celebrates Dev Deepawali 2026 on Tuesday, 24 November, Kartik Purnima, and it is the one night of the year when the Ganga seems to glow from within. Known as the “Diwali of the Gods”, it is when, according to tradition, the gods descend to the river to celebrate. Over a million diyas light up the 84 ghats from Assi to Rajghat, while the Ganga Aarti, fireworks and laser show fill the evening.
The best seat is on the water. Our Dev Deepawali boat ride in Varanasi lets you glide past the glowing ghats, watch the Aarti from the river and see the sky light up above the Ganga, without being squeezed into the crowds on the steps.
What you will experience
- Illuminated ghats: Sail past ghats such as Assi, Chet Singh, Manikarnika and Dashashwamedh as they glow with diyas.
- Ganga Aarti from the river: Watch the Dashashwamedh Ghat Aarti from the boat, without the crowds on the steps.
- Fireworks, laser show and drone show: Enjoy a clear view of the sky over the river.
- Banarasi snacks and water: Light vegetarian refreshments are served on board.
- Safe and comfortable: Life jackets, experienced boatmen and proper seating.
Event details
- Meetup point: Outside Grand Ganga View Hotel, Sant Ravidas Ghat Road, Varanasi
- Reporting time: 3:00 PM
- Boarding starts at 4:00 PM
- Duration: Approx. 3-5 hours
- Includes: Boat ride, safety jackets, snacks, water bottle and guided commentary on the ghats
How to find us
- Reach the meetup point as described earlier, wherein our team will help you board.
Good to know
- Tickets are required for ages 5 and above.
- Carry a valid photo ID (Aadhaar, PAN, driving licence or passport).
- Food is vegetarian only, and alcohol is not allowed.
- Parking is not available at the venue, and the boat is not wheelchair accessible.
- Reach the ghat at the reporting time, because the ghats get very crowded on Dev Deepawali.
- Wear light, comfortable clothes and carry a light jacket for the cool river breeze.
- Fireworks and shows depend on the local administration and weather.
Why book early?
- Dev Deepawali is Varanasi’s busiest evening, and boat seats sell out well before the date.
