Every year as Diwali approaches, the holy city of Ayodhya turns into a shining ocean of light and devotion. The banks of the River Saryu sparkle with millions of diyas, the sky glows golden, and chants of “Jai Shri Ram” echo from every direction. This magical celebration is called the Ayodhya Deepotsav — and in 2025, it’s going to be grander than ever.
This year, the Uttar Pradesh government and local volunteers are preparing to light a record 28 lakh diyas along 56 ghats of the Saryu River, aiming to break their own Guinness World Record. I personally followed all official updates and local reports to compile this full guide for you — from how to get your free Deepotsav pass, to event timings, new attractions, and some personal travel tips if you plan to witness this divine event.
🌟 What Makes Deepotsav So Special
The story behind Deepotsav is as sacred as the city itself. It celebrates the moment when Lord Ram returned to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and his victory over Ravana. To welcome him home, the people of Ayodhya lit countless diyas, and that’s exactly what devotees recreate every year.
Since 2017, Deepotsav has been organized by the Uttar Pradesh government on a grand scale. Each year, the number of diyas, cultural programs, and visitors keeps growing. In 2024, the city lit around 22 lakh diyas — and now, in Deepotsav 2025, that number will cross 26–28 lakh diyas, setting new global records.
🪔 Deepotsav 2025 Date and Main Highlights
✅ Main Date: Sunday, 19 October 2025
📍 Venue: Ram Ki Paidi, Saryu River Ghats & Ramkatha Park, Ayodhya
🎉 Festival Duration: 18–20 October 2025
I cross-checked multiple sources and found that this year’s main Deepotsav event — including diya lighting and Saryu aarti — will take place on 19 October 2025, just before Diwali. The festivities will start a day before with cultural shows, stage performances, and exhibitions, and continue until 20 October.
Here’s what makes this edition extra special:
✨ 1. Record-Breaking 28 Lakh Diyas Lighting
According to the Times of India, Ayodhya plans to light 28 lakh diyas across 56 ghats, including the newly added Laxman Kila Ghat. Around 30,000 volunteers will participate, handling over 33 lakh diyas (some extra for backup), using more than 75,000 litres of oil and 55 lakh cotton wicks.
The sight of millions of tiny flames reflecting on the calm Saryu River is something beyond words — it truly feels like heaven on earth.
🎭 2. International & Indian Ramleela Performances
Just like every year, foreign artists will also participate. In 2025, groups from Thailand, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Russia will perform their unique interpretations of the Ramayana.
The famous “Disha Ramleela” group from Russia will again represent their country, blending Indian devotion with Russian theatrical style.
Indian artists from different states will also perform on smaller stages across the city — from Tulsi Udyan to Guptar Ghat — starting a day before the main Deepotsav.
🕍 3. Wax Museum & Cultural Exhibition
A brand-new 10,000 sq. ft. wax museum is being built near the Ram Janmabhoomi Corridor. It will showcase lifelike wax statues of Lord Ram, Sita, Hanuman, and Lakshman, making it a must-visit during Deepotsav.
Nearby, the International Ramayana and Vedic Research Institute (IRVRI) will host an exhibition displaying traditional Ramleela masks, props, paintings, and books from different countries.
💡 4. Temples and City Lighting
More than 41 major temples including Hanuman Garhi, Kanak Bhawan, and Dashrath Mahal will be decorated with lighting themes. The entire city is being beautified with floral gates, rangolis, and LED arches — turning Ayodhya into a living temple of light.
🚁 5. Drone and Laser Show
Modern technology will join tradition this year. Expect a grand drone show, laser mapping, and musical light projections narrating the story of Lord Ram. This will happen right after the diyas are lit, adding a modern sparkle to the ancient celebration.
🎫 How to Get Free Entry Pass for Ayodhya Deepotsav 2025
You don’t have to pay anything to attend the event — entry is free for everyone. But you must register online and get your official visitor pass to enter the main event zones.
Here’s the full step-by-step process:
Step 1️⃣: Visit the Official Website
Go to https://deeputsav.rmlauexams.in – this is the only authorized site for Deepotsav pass registration.
Step 2️⃣: Click on “Visitor Registration”
Look for the tab that says “Deepotsav 2025 Pass Apply” or “Register for Entry Pass.”
Step 3️⃣: Fill Your Details
Enter your name, email, mobile number, and address. Sometimes you’ll be asked to upload an ID proof like Aadhaar or Voter ID — keep it handy.
Step 4️⃣: Choose the Event or Date
Select the date (preferably 19 October 2025) and the event type (Main Deepotsav or Ramleela Show).
Step 5️⃣: Submit the Form
After submission, you’ll get a confirmation SMS or email. Download the PDF pass or take a printout.
Step 6️⃣: Carry the Pass to Venue
On the day, bring your printed or digital pass along with a valid photo ID. Security checks are strict, so keep your documents ready.
👉 You can also check updates and alternate links on the official government event portal Utsav.gov.in.
📅 Tentative Event Schedule 2025
| Event | Date | Time | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Opening Ceremony & Rehearsal | 18 Oct 2025 | 4:00 PM onwards | Ramkatha Park |
| International Ramleela | 18–19 Oct 2025 | 5:00 PM onwards | Ramkatha Park |
| Main Deepotsav & Lighting Ceremony | 19 Oct 2025 | 6:00 PM onwards | Ram Ki Paidi, Saryu Ghats |
| Closing Parade & Cultural Show | 20 Oct 2025 | Morning | City Main Road |
(Based on available reports; final timings to be updated on the portal.)
📍 Main Venue and Connectivity
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Main Venue: Ram Ki Paidi & Ramkatha Park, Ayodhya
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Nearest Railway Station: Ayodhya Dham Junction (AY)
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Nearest Airport: Maharishi Valmiki International Airport (Ayodhya) – around 8–10 km away
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By Road: Connected via NH-27, frequent buses and cabs from Lucknow, Varanasi, Prayagraj, and Gorakhpur.
🏨 Where to Stay in Ayodhya
Accommodation fills up fast around Deepotsav, so book early. Here are some suggested places:
| Type | Example | Approx. Distance |
|---|---|---|
| Dharamshala | Ram Sewak Dharamshala | 1 km |
| Budget Hotel | Shri Ram Residency | 2 km |
| Mid-range | Hotel Ramayana Ayodhya | 3 km |
| Premium Stay | Taj Sarayu Ayodhya | 4 km |
You can find rooms on MakeMyTrip, Yatra, or Booking.com — or even through local dharamshala boards.
🙏 My Personal Tips for Visitors
After going through several reports and past Deepotsavs, here are a few practical things I’d advise:
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Register as early as possible — passes open a few weeks before the event.
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Reach before 5:30 PM on 19 Oct — roads get crowded, and the magic starts at sunset.
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Carry light items only — avoid bags or large purses due to security restrictions.
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Dress comfortably but modestly — remember it’s a religious event.
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Stay hydrated and carry a small water bottle.
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Use e-rickshaws or walk for short distances to avoid parking hassles.
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Capture memories responsibly — don’t push or block others while taking photos.
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Respect cleanliness and local decorum — help keep the ghats clean.
🕯️ The Spiritual Essence of Deepotsav
What makes this event truly divine is not just the lighting of lamps but the message behind it — the triumph of truth over falsehood, light over darkness, and good over evil. When millions of diyas glow together on the river, it feels like every flame is whispering the story of Lord Ram’s return.
Ayodhya has always been called the city of dharma, but now it’s also a symbol of unity and culture — attracting devotees, tourists, and artists from across the world. After the completion of Ram Mandir, this Deepotsav holds even deeper emotion for every devotee.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is there any fee to attend Ayodhya Deepotsav 2025?
No, the event is completely free for everyone. You just need to register online for the entry pass.
2. When is the main Deepotsav lighting ceremony in 2025?
The main diya lighting and Saryu Aarti will take place on 19 October 2025 evening.
3. How many diyas will be lit this year?
The target is to light around 28 lakh diyas across 56 ghats of the Saryu River.
4. What’s the official website for pass registration?
Visit deeputsav.rmlauexams.in for registration. Updates are also available at utsav.gov.in.
5. Can foreign tourists attend Deepotsav?
Yes, anyone can attend. Just carry your valid ID proof and a registered pass.
6. What other attractions will be there?
Ramleela performances by international artists, cultural parades, drone shows, wax museum, and decorated temples.
7. What time should I reach Ram Ki Paidi?
Best to arrive by 5:00–5:30 PM to get a good view and avoid crowd rush.
💬 Final Words
If you’ve never witnessed Ayodhya Deepotsav before, 2025 is the year to go.
It’s not just a celebration — it’s a living experience of faith and unity. Seeing 28 lakh diyas glowing together is something that will stay with you forever.
So, book your travel early, register for your free pass, and get ready to watch the City of Ram shine brighter than ever.