2022 Dev Deepawali Varanasi Pooja Timings Date Temple Darshan

2022 Dev Deepawali Varanasi was one of the most breathtaking cultural and spiritual celebrations I have ever witnessed. On this sacred night in the holy city of Varanasi, the ghats of the Ganges River were lit with more than a million earthen lamps, and devotees from all over India and abroad gathered to offer prayers, take the holy dip in the river, and watch the divine spectacle. This festival, also known as Dev Diwali, took place on Monday, November 7, 2022 and marked Kartik Purnima with a special Pradoshakal muhurat from 05:14 pm to 07:49 pm.

Quick Facts About 2022 Dev Deepawali Varanasi

What Is Dev Deepawali?

Dev Deepawali, literally “the Diwali of the Gods,” is celebrated on Kartik Purnima—the full moon day in the Kartika month of the Hindu lunar calendar. It falls 15 days after the festival of Diwali and is dedicated to the gods who, according to mythology, descend to the Ganges to bathe on this auspicious night.

The entire riverfront in Varanasi from Dashashwamedh Ghat to Rajghat is illuminated with millions of clay lamps at dusk. Along with the lighting of diyas (deepdan), traditional Ganga Aarti performances are conducted with ceremonial offerings and Vedic chants. The celebration connects spirituality, culture, and devotion in one grand spectacle. Understanding 2022 Dev Deepawali Varanasi is essential.

How To Reach Varanasi For Dev Deepawali

By Air

The nearest airport is Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS), located approximately 26 km from Varanasi city centre. Domestic flights connect Varanasi to major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bangalore. Upon landing, you can hire prepaid taxis, app-based cabs, or autorickshaws to reach your hotel or the ghats. The airport is well signposted, and ground transport is available 24/7.

By Train

Varanasi Junction (BSB) is one of the major railway stations in North India. It connects almost all important cities via express and superfast trains. A short auto or taxi ride from the station brings you straight to the ghats area. I personally recommend taking an early morning train so you can explore the city the day before Dev Deepawali.

By Road

Well-maintained national highways connect Varanasi to Lucknow (320 km), Allahabad (120 km), and other neighbouring cities. Luxury coaches, state buses, and private buses operate daily. Driving in by car is an option for independent travellers. Parking near the ghats can be hectic during Dev Deepawali, so it’s advisable to park at designated lots and walk or take a rickshaw to the riverfront. This relates to 2022 Dev Deepawali Varanasi.

Booking And Ticket Information

The main Dev Deepawali festival itself is a public event with no entry fee, meaning you can walk up to the ghats, witness the lighting of lamps, attend Ganga Aarti, and take part in the festivities freely. However, certain activities during Dev Deepawali like boat rides or cruise packages may require advance booking. Here’s how you can book:

Step-By-Step: Boat Ride Or Cruise Booking

1. Visit a trusted tourism provider such as VisitKashi.com or a similar service that offers Dev Diwali cruise or boat ride packages.
2. Select your preferred date (for 2022 it was November 7) and type of boat (motor boat, cruise, etc.).
3. Choose timing options—usually 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm to catch the lighting and aarti.
4. Enter personal details and make a secure online payment.
5. You will receive an e-ticket or booking confirmation via email or SMS.
6. Arrive at the designated ghat (e.g., Ravidas Ghat) 60–90 minutes before departure for boarding.

While I was in Varanasi during Dev Deepawali 2022, I booked a shared boat ride well in advance because seats fill up quickly. I highly recommend booking 3–4 weeks before the festival if possible.

Festivities And Temple Darshan During Dev Deepawali

The rituals of Dev Deepawali begin with devotees taking a holy dip (Kartik Snan) in the Ganges early in the day. In the evening, the Deepdan ritual sees millions of clay lamps lit across the riverbanks. Local temples and homes are adorned with lights and flowers. Aarti performances at major ghats—especially Dashashwamedh and Assi Ghats—are particularly powerful and moving experiences. Learn more about 2022 Dev Deepawali Varanasi.

Temple darshan is open throughout the day, but expect large crowds on this special night as thousands of pilgrims and tourists share the divine occasion.

Insider Tips From My Visit

• Arrive Early: The ghats begin filling hours before dusk. I reached around 3 pm and secured a good spot near Dashashwamedh Ghat.
• Stay Hydrated: Varanasi can be warm even in November. Carry a refillable water bottle and use refill stations when possible.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll walk a lot on uneven pathways near the river.
• Respect Local Customs: Photography is fine, but be mindful during aarti and prayer ceremonies.
• Plan Accommodation Early: Hotels and guesthouses book quickly—especially during festival season.

Nearby Attractions And Distances

Varanasi is rich in culture and history. While visiting for Dev Deepawali, plan some time to see these attractions:

• Kashi Vishwanath Temple – ~2 km from Dashashwamedh Ghat
• Assi Ghat – ~3 km from Dashashwamedh Ghat
• Sarnath (Buddhist site) – ~10 km from Varanasi city
• Banaras Hindu University (BHU) – ~7 km from central Varanasi
• Ramnagar Fort – ~14 km along the Ganges

Best Time To Visit Varanasi For Dev Deepawali

If you want to experience Dev Deepawali like I did, plan your trip for early November. Here’s why:

• Cool Weather: November has pleasant temperatures, making temple visits and evening rituals comfortable.
• Festival Atmosphere: Arriving a couple of days before Kartik Purnima lets you explore the city and other rituals (e.g., Ganga Mahotsav) leading up to the main event.
• Photogenic Light Displays: The golden glow of lamps against the river at night creates unforgettable images.
• Boat Rides: Sunset and evening boat rides offer spectacular angles of the fireworks and illuminations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is The Date Of Dev Deepawali 2022?

Dev Deepawali 2022 was celebrated on Monday, November 7, aligning with the Kartik Purnima tradition.

Is There An Entry Fee To Attend Dev Deepawali?

No, attending the public celebration and watching the lighting of lamps along the ghats is free of charge.

Are Boat Rides Included With Festival Entry?

No. Boat rides or cruises are separate activities and require advance booking with tour operators.

Can Tourists Participate In The Rituals?

Yes, tourists are welcome to participate in or observe the rituals, though you should respect local customs and dress modestly.

Is Varanasi Safe For Solo Travellers During Dev Deepawali?

Yes, but security is tightened and crowd management is strong. Arrive early, stay aware of your surroundings, and follow instructions from local authorities.

What Is The Best Ghat For Viewing Dev Deepawali?

Dashashwamedh Ghat is widely considered the prime spot for Ganga Aarti and lighting ceremonies. Many boat rides also start near Ravidas Ghat for a panoramic view.