On the glow with lakhs of and the Ganga is at its most spectacular.
The story
- Held on , fifteen days after Diwali, as the Festival of the Gods.
- It's believed the gods come down to bathe in the Ganga that night; it marks Shiva's victory over Tripurasura.
What happens
- Morning
Thousands take a holy dip in the Ganga at dawn.
- Dusk
A million
Every from Assi to Raj is lined with earthen lamps.
- Evening
Grand Ganga
The at Dashashwamedh is at its most elaborate, often with fireworks over the river.
Best places to see it
What to eat
Varanasi's breakfast: fried kachoris with a spiced potato-and-chickpea curry.
Old stalls in the lanes near the ghats, such as Kachori Gali.
A winter sweet: saffron milk whisked to a froth and served in a clay cup.
Sweet shops in the old city, in the early morning.
Slow-cooked tomato with ghee and spices, a Varanasi speciality.
Chaat shops near Assi Ghat and in the old city.
Know before you go
- Book a boat days in advance; prices rise on the day.
- Reach the by mid-afternoon.
- Mind the steps in the dark and keep valuables close in crowds.
Organised by
Community celebration with ghat committees
There's no single organiser. Local committees, temples and families make it happen, so welcome and etiquette matter more than tickets.