Lilshira
Deepotsav 2026 to Light Up Ayodhya with Over 30 Lakh Lamps and International Performances
Deepotsav 2026 will illuminate Ayodhya on 7 November 2026 with over 30 lakh earthen lamps, international cultural performances and grand Diwali celebrations, targeting pilgrims and cultural tourists. The event marks the tenth edition of the festival and showcases the city’s religious heritage on a global stage.
In this story
At a glance
- What changes
- Over 30 lakh lamps will light Ayodhya and 2,500 artists will perform across 12 stages
- Timing
- The festival takes place on 7 November 2026
- Who is affected
- Pilgrims, cultural tourists and visitors attending the Diwali celebrations
The details
- Announced by
- Government of India
- Takes effect
- 7 November 2026
Event Overview
The tenth edition of Deepotsav will be held in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, on 7 November 2026. The festival combines traditional Diwali rituals with a large‑scale illumination programme and cultural performances.
- More than 30 lakh earthen lamps will be placed along the Saryu River and at key heritage sites
- Approximately 2,500 artists from India and abroad will perform on 12 stages
Key Highlights
Vice‑President C. P. Radhakrishnan will attend the event, offering prayers at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple and participating in a symbolic coronation ceremony of Lord Ram. A grand procession will travel a three‑kilometre route through central Ayodhya, showcasing traditional music and dance.
- International Ramleela performances will feature participants from South Africa, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Laos and Thailand
- Ram Katha Park will host a special exhibition on Ayodhya’s five‑century history
Visitor Information
The Ministry of Tourism’s Incredible India platform promotes Deepotsav as a blend of devotional practices and modern visual displays, including laser shows, drone displays and projection mapping. While exact timings for multimedia attractions are not confirmed, the overall programme is designed to be accessible to both pilgrims and cultural tourists.
- The illuminated riverfront at Ram Ki Paidi will create a visual representation of Diwali’s victory of light over darkness
- One lakh lamps will specifically illuminate the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple premises
What this means for travellers
Trip planning
- Travelers planning to visit Ayodhya should aim to arrive before 7 November to experience the full illumination programme
- Bookings for accommodation may fill quickly due to the large‑scale festival, so early reservation is advisable
Cost and documents
- No additional visa fees or entry documents are introduced by the festival announcement
- Travelers should budget for higher accommodation rates and possible transport demand on 7 November
What you need to do
- Check hotel availability and confirm reservations for dates surrounding 7 November 2026
- Monitor local transport schedules, as special shuttle services may operate for festival attendees
- Review any local COVID‑19 or safety advisories issued by Indian authorities before travel
Who this affects
-
Pilgrims visiting Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple
The temple will be illuminated with one lakh lamps as part of Deepotsav celebrations
What to do Pilgrims can attend the special illumination ceremony on 7 November
-
Cultural tourists interested in Indian heritage
The festival features international Ramleela performances and a heritage exhibition at Ram Katha Park
What to do Visitors can attend performances and explore the exhibition during the festival dates
-
Domestic travelers attending Diwali celebrations
Deepotsav aligns with Diwali on 8 November, extending festivities throughout Ayodhya
What to do Travelers can experience extended Diwali events and the city‑wide lighting display
Frequently asked questions
When is Deepotsav 2026 taking place in Ayodhya?
Deepotsav 2026 is scheduled for 7 November 2026, marking the tenth edition of the festival and coinciding with Diwali celebrations.
How many lamps will be lit during Deepotsav 2026?
More than 30 lakh earthen lamps will be illuminated across Ayodhya, including one lakh lamps at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple.
Who are the international performers at Deepotsav 2026?
Artists from countries such as South Africa, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Laos and Thailand are expected to take part in the Ramleela performances across 12 stages.
Will the Vice‑President of India attend Deepotsav 2026?
Yes, Vice‑President C. P. Radhakrishnan will attend, offering prayers at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple and participating in the symbolic coronation ceremony of Lord Ram.
Do I need a special visa or permit to attend Deepotsav 2026?
No special visa or permit is required beyond the standard entry requirements for India; the festival does not introduce new immigration rules.
