Dev Deepawali 2026: Varanasi Ghats Light Up on Tuesday 24 November
Short answer
Dev Deepawali 2026 is on Tuesday 24 November, the full-moon day of Kartik. On the same day, Sikhs mark Guru Nanak Jayanti, a central government holiday in India.
After Diwali on 8 November, many families start searching for the next big festival of lights. That's Dev Deepawali, the "Diwali of the gods", celebrated on Kartik Purnima. According to Drik Panchang, as reported by Nabh24, it falls on Tuesday 24 November 2026.
What happens in Varanasi
On Dev Deepawali evening, the ghats along the Ganga in Varanasi are lined with thousands of earthen lamps (diyas). People gather for evening aarti, boats float past the glowing steps, and the riverfront becomes one of India's most photographed festival scenes. Uttar Pradesh tourism and city officials usually share crowd and boat guidance before the day, so check local updates if you plan to visit.
November 2026 festival calendar
- 8 November: Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas
- 9 November: Govardhan Puja
- 11 November: Bhai Dooj
- 13–16 November: Chhath Puja (main evening offering on 15 November)
- 20 November: Dev Uthani Ekadashi
- 24 November: Kartik Purnima, Dev Deepawali and Guru Nanak Jayanti
The Diwali, Govardhan, Bhai Dooj, Chhath and Guru Nanak dates match the Government of India's 2026 holiday calendar from the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs.
Plan with free tools
- Count the days to the start of the season with our Diwali countdown.
- How many days from Diwali to Dev Deepawali? Try the date difference calculator. (Answer: 16.)
- Read our Diwali 2026 planning guide and the Punjabi guide to Bandi Chhor Divas.
Safe and simple celebrations
Keep diyas on steady surfaces away from curtains and clothing. Keep a bucket of water nearby, and never leave lamps burning unattended. Children should always light lamps with an adult. Near rivers, stay behind barriers and follow instructions from police and boat operators.
Can't travel to Varanasi? Light a row of diyas at home, share sweets with neighbours and enjoy the full moon. It's a peaceful end to a busy festival month.
Updated 19 October 2026. Dates from Drik Panchang (via Nabh24) and the Government of India holiday calendar.
