The Deepotsav in Ayodhya and Varanasi is one of the grandest celebrations of light and devotion in India, combining two emblematic festivals: the iconic Ayodhya Deepotsav festival on the banks of the Saryu River and the sacred Dev Deepavali in Varanasi on the ghats of the Ganga.
In Ayodhya, the Deepotsav celebrates the mythic return of Lord Rama to his kingdom after 14 years of exile and a defeat of Ravana. The city celebrates by lighting lakhs of diyas lining the Saryu River and across its temples and streets, which finely exemplifies the triumph of light over darkness. The Dev Deepavali festival is celebrated in Varanasi on Kartik Poornima, when the ghats are illuminated with countless lamps to honor the descent of the gods as well as Lord Shiva's victory over the demon Tripurasura.
The Ayodhya Deepotsav festival has transformed from being a local festival to an internationally popular cultural event that celebrates the spiritual core of India. Deepotsav is a vibrant jollification of culture with millions of pilgrims, tourists, and international arrivals. Interestingly, with the inauguration of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, the significance of Ayodhya Deepotsav has increased profoundly, as the temple stands illuminated in divine radiance during the celebrations, serving as a magical sight. The splendor of the festivities, the communal devotion, and the magical illumination of millions of diyas all come together to demonstrate why Ayodhya holds unmatched spiritual significance.
Beyond spirituality, the festival enhances cultural identity, strengthens tourism, and shows how traditions can evolve and be celebrated while showcasing modern creativity. From laser projections to international Ramleela performances.
Deepotsav 2025 Dates: 18th October to 23rd October 2025
Glorious Highlights of Ayodhya Deepotsav
Tourism and Cultural Experiences:
How to Reach Ayodhya and Attend Deepotsav?
Festival Attendance Tip:
Arrive early for the Ram Katha Park Deepotsav and Saryu Aarti, as there will be a huge influx of people. So, plan ahead and make your arrangements in advance.
Where to Stay During the Deepotsav in Ayodhya?
Ayodhya has an array of stay options, from pilgrim dharamshalas to mid-range hotels and luxury establishments close to the Ram Mandir and the Saryu River, all conveniently positioned for festival visitors.
Here are some of the popular options in Ayodhya:
Ayodhya's Deepotsav and Varanasi's Dev Deepavali represent the very essence of India: a true amalgamation of mythology, devotion, and community. From Ayodhya's lit Ram Mandir and the record-breaking diyas along the Saryu River to Varanasi's illuminated ghats that honor the descent of the gods, both festivals are more than just visual spectacles; they are certainly moving spiritual experiences reminding every pilgrim/visitor of the timeless triumph of light over darkness.
