Showing posts with label Best Time to Visit Varanasi. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Best Time to Visit Varanasi. Show all posts

Wednesday, November 12, 2025

Sunrise Boat Ride Experience in Varanasi

 

Sunrise Boat Ride Experience in Varanasi

Varanasi, often referred to as Kashi or the City of Light, is one of the most ancient and spiritual destinations in India. While its temples, rituals, and ghats are popular throughout the year, one experience that truly captures the soul of the city is a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges—especially during the summer season.

In summer, when the afternoons are hot and humid, early mornings in Varanasi offer the perfect window to explore its spiritual landscape. A boat ride at dawn not only provides a refreshing escape from the heat but also unveils the sacred rhythm of life in this timeless city.

Why Take a Sunrise Boat Ride in Summer?

Summer in Varanasi can be intense, but the hours just before and after sunrise are calm, cool, and quiet. This makes it the best time for sightseeing and spiritual reflection.

Here are some compelling reasons to take a sunrise boat ride:

  • Pleasant morning weather compared to the daytime heat

  • Peaceful atmosphere with fewer crowds

  • Chance to witness early morning rituals and prayers along the ghats

  • Stunning views of the sunrise over the Ganges

  • Ideal opportunity for photography and meditation

What to Expect on the Sunrise Boat Ride

Shivakashi Travels offers well-organized and safe sunrise boat rides with experienced guides. The journey begins between 4:45 AM and 5:30 AM and typically lasts 60 to 90 minutes. You can choose from a traditional wooden rowboat or a comfortable motorboat, depending on your preference.

Typical Boat Ride Route:

As you glide over the calm waters of the Ganga, you'll witness priests performing early morning poojas, locals taking their ritual bath, and the sun slowly rising above the skyline—illuminating the entire riverbank with a golden glow.

Cultural & Spiritual Significance

A sunrise boat ride is more than just a scenic tour—it’s a spiritual journey. The soft chants, temple bells, and scent of incense create an environment that fosters inner peace and reflection.

You also have the option to:

Ideal for Families, Couples, and Solo Travelers

This experience is suitable for all types of travelers:

  • Families looking for a calm, cultural activity before temple visits

  • Couples seeking a romantic start to their day

  • Solo travelers wanting quiet moments of reflection or photography

It is completely safe, and Shivakashi Travels ensures sanitized boats, experienced boatmen, and professional coordination from pick-up to drop-off.

Tips for a Comfortable Sunrise Boat Ride in Summer

  • Start early to enjoy the coolest part of the day

  • Wear light cotton clothing

  • Carry drinking water and a small towel

  • Use sunscreen and wear a cap or hat

  • Bring a camera or smartphone with enough storage and battery

Combine with Other Summer-Friendly Activities

After your boat ride, you can explore the rest of Varanasi comfortably before noon. Popular follow-up activities include:

Shivakashi Travels offers combo packages that include a sunrise boat ride along with temple visits, guided tours, and AC vehicle transfers.

Customer Testimonials

"Our sunrise boat ride was the highlight of our Kashi tour. Peaceful, spiritual, and beautifully organized by Shivakashi Travels." – Rahul T., Mumbai

"The golden light reflecting off the Ganges was truly mesmerizing. We got amazing photos and felt connected to the city's spirit." – Meena S., Chennai

How to Book Your Sunrise Boat Ride

To reserve your spot for the summer special sunrise boat ride, simply:

We recommend booking at least a day in advance to ensure availability.

Final Thoughts

A sunrise boat ride in Varanasi is not just a travel experience—it’s a moment of serenity, a window into tradition, and a chance to witness the city in its purest form. During the summer, this early morning escape is not only refreshing but also deeply rewarding.

Let Shivakashi Travels take care of your Varanasi journey—from sun-kissed boat rides to sacred temple tours—ensuring every moment is filled with meaning and comfort.

Thursday, October 23, 2025

Weekend Getaway to Varanasi

 

Weekend Getaway to Varanasi

Looking for a quick yet soul-enriching escape this weekend? A weekend getaway to Varanasi, India’s spiritual heart, offers the perfect blend of divine experiences, cultural richness, and timeless beauty. Whether you are planning a short spiritual retreat, a cultural exploration, or a peaceful family trip, Varanasi welcomes you with its centuries-old charm.

In just 2 to 3 days, you can witness the vibrant life along the ghats, attend mesmerizing Ganga Aarti, explore ancient temples, and soak in the essence of India’s oldest living city.

Why Choose Varanasi for a Weekend Trip?

Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Banaras, is one of the most accessible weekend destinations from major cities like Delhi, Lucknow, Patna, Kolkata, and Prayagraj. With good road, rail, and air connectivity, you can arrive Friday night and return Sunday evening, making the most of your weekend.

Here’s why it makes the perfect short escape:

  • Easy access by flight, train, or road

  • Spiritual rejuvenation in a short span

  • Rich cultural and historical experiences

  • Ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers

  • Budget-friendly packages available

Suggested 2-Day Itinerary for a Weekend in Varanasi

Shivakashi Travels offers customized weekend packages for all kinds of travelers. Here is a sample itinerary for a weekend getaway:

Day 1: Arrival and Spiritual Immersion

Day 2: Sunrise & Local Experiences

Best Places to Visit on a Weekend Trip

  • Kashi Vishwanath Temple – A jyotirlinga and spiritual center of the city

  • Sarnath – Where Buddha gave his first sermon

  • Dashashwamedh Ghat – Most iconic ghat, especially during Ganga Aarti

  • Assi Ghat – Ideal for sunrise views and morning cultural programs

  • Banarasi Markets – Famous for silk sarees, wooden toys, and local art

Things to Do on a Weekend in Varanasi

Ideal for All Types of Travelers

A weekend trip to Varanasi is suitable for:

  • Families seeking spiritual bonding and heritage exploration

  • Couples looking for a peaceful, meaningful escape

  • Solo travelers wanting a cultural and soul-nourishing journey

  • Pilgrims visiting temples and holy spots in a short time

Travel Tips for Weekend Travelers

  • Book early morning or night trains/flights to maximize time

  • Carry light cotton clothes and comfortable walking shoes

  • Hire a local guide for historical and cultural context

  • Avoid planning too much—focus on 4–5 core experiences

Why Book with Shivakashi Travels?

Shivakashi Travels specializes in well-planned Varanasi weekend packages that include:

  • Hotel bookings (budget to deluxe)

  • Air/rail pick-up and drop

  • Local transportation with AC vehicle

  • Personalized guided tours

  • Sunrise boat ride arrangements

  • Ganga Aarti VIP access (on request)

With local expertise and years of experience, we ensure your weekend in Varanasi is meaningful, comfortable, and unforgettable.

How to Book Your Weekend Package

Booking your weekend getaway with us is simple:

Let us know your preferred travel dates and group size—we’ll handle the rest.

Friday, October 17, 2025

Varanasi Heritage Walk + Ropeway Ride

 

Varanasi Heritage Walk with Ropeway Ride

Discover the Timeless Charm of Kashi – On Foot and from the Sky

Varanasi, the oldest living city in the world, is best experienced not just by visiting its temples and ghats—but by walking through its living history. With the introduction of the Kashi Ropeway, you can now explore Varanasi’s spiritual soul with both aerial views and up-close street experiences.

Our Varanasi Heritage Walk + Ropeway Ride tour combines a deep cultural immersion with the comfort and thrill of flying above the city.


What to Expect from This Tour

  • Guided walk through Varanasi’s ancient streets, temples, and ghats

  • Ride on the Kashi Ropeway for a scenic bird’s-eye view of the city

  • Stories and history behind old lanes, architecture, and shrines

  • Visit key spiritual and cultural sites including Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, Manikarnika Ghat, Nepali Temple, and Dashashwamedh Ghat

  • Perfect for history lovers, photographers, solo travelers, and spiritual seekers


Sample Itinerary: Heritage Walk + Ropeway Ride

Start Point: Varanasi Cantt Railway Station (or your hotel)

Phase 1 – Ropeway Ride

  • Begin your journey with a ride from Cantt to Godowlia via the Kashi Ropeway

  • Enjoy panoramic views of the ghats, temples, rooftops, and busy bazaars

Phase 2 – Heritage Walk (Godowlia to Assi or Manikarnika)

  • Walk through Vishwanath Gali

  • Stop at Kashi Vishwanath Temple for an outside view or optional darshan

  • Visit Annapurna Temple, Vishalakshi Temple, and explore local art shops

  • Continue toward the Nepali Temple (Kathwala Temple)

  • Witness life at the ghats—Manikarnika, Dashashwamedh, and optionally Assi Ghat

Phase 3 – Cultural Stop or Optional Add-on

  • Break at a local chai shop or traditional café

  • Option to attend Ganga Aarti or boat ride in the evening (extra charge)


Duration

  • 3 to 4 hours (morning or evening slot)

  • With Ganga Aarti Add-on: 5 to 6 hours total


Inclusions

  • One-way or round-trip ropeway ticket

  • Local heritage guide fluent in Hindi/English

  • Walk route map and assistance

  • Bottle of water and support

  • Add-ons: Temple darshan pass, boat ride, hotel pickup (on request)


Tour Highlights

  • Aerial view of Varanasi from the new ropeway

  • Walk through 2,000+ year old streets and landmarks

  • Learn about the city’s myths, saints, architecture, and rituals

  • Visit hidden corners and lesser-known temples

  • Engage with locals, priests, and street vendors along the way


Who This Tour is For

  • Travelers seeking a blend of history, faith, and local culture

  • Solo travelers wanting guided safety and storytelling

  • Families with curious teens or elders who prefer shorter walking stretches

  • Photographers and creators looking for iconic street and skyline shots


Pricing

Starting from ₹1199 per person (includes ropeway ticket + guided walk)
Group discounts and private walk options available

Book now via our Contact Page or call us for customizations.


Things to Carry

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Sunglasses and cap for day walks

  • Light traditional clothing (for temple zones)

  • Mobile or camera (ask your guide for permitted photo spots)


Discover Kashi from a New Perspective

Our Varanasi Heritage Walk + Ropeway Ride is not just a tour—it’s an invitation to see Kashi through both modern and ancient lenses. Let your feet take you through the alleys of history, and your eyes soar across the skyline.

Join Shiva Kashi Travels for a soulful, educational, and unforgettable journey.

Best Ghats to Watch Ganga Aarti in Varanasi Home Best Ghats to Watch Ganga Aarti in Varanasi

Best Ghats to Watch Ganga Aarti in Varanasi

Varanasi — the spiritual capital of India — is known for its mesmerizing Ganga Aarti, a ritual of light, devotion, and sound performed every evening on the banks of the sacred River Ganga. The experience is a divine blend of chants, conch shells, and diyas illuminating the riverfront. If you’re planning a trip to Varanasi, witnessing the Aarti is a must — and knowing the best ghats to watch Ganga Aarti makes all the difference.


1. Dashashwamedh Ghat — The Main Aarti Ghat

Dashashwamedh Ghat is the most famous and sacred spot for Ganga Aarti. Every evening, priests dressed in saffron perform the grand ritual using multi-tiered lamps, incense, and conch shells. The synchronization of chants and lights creates a heavenly atmosphere that captivates every visitor.

Best Way to Experience:
Book a Ganga Aarti boat ride or Alaknanda Cruise through Shivakashi Travels

 

Fair-Festivals & Events 2025 Varanasi


Tuesday, September 23, 2025

Dev Diwali booking

 

Dev Diwali Tour Package – Varanasi 2025

Celebrate the Festival of Lights of the Gods in Kashi
📅 Date: 5th November 2025 | 📍 Location: Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

Witness the magical glow of Dev Deepawali as the sacred ghats of Varanasi come alive with millions of diyas (earthen lamps), spiritual chants, and vibrant cultural rituals. Shiv Akashi Travels invites you to be part of this once-a-year divine celebration.


✨ Tour Highlights:

  • Exclusive Evening Boat Ride on Dev Deepawali

  • Grand Ganga Aarti Ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat

  • Guided Temple Darshan: Kashi Vishwanath, Kal Bhairav, Sankat Mochan & more

  • Sunrise Boat Ride + Morning Ritual Experience

  • Day Trip to Sarnath – Land of Lord Buddha

  • Personalized Pick-up & Drop from Airport/Railway Station


🗓️ Suggested Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival & Dev Diwali Celebration

  • Pick-up from Varanasi Airport/Railway Station

  • Hotel Check-in & Brief Refresh

  • Evening Ghat Walk & Exclusive Boat Ride on the Ganga

  • Witness the entire ghats lit with thousands of diyas

  • Attend the spiritual Ganga Aarti

  • Overnight stay in Varanasi

Day 2 – Sunrise Boat Ride & City Tour

  • Early morning boat ride to witness Surya Arghya (sun salutation)

  • Visit sacred temples: Kashi Vishwanath, Annapurna, Kal Bhairav, Durga Kund, Tulsi Manas & Sankat Mochan

  • Return for breakfast at hotel

Day 2 (Post-lunch) – Sarnath Excursion

  • Visit to Sarnath: Dhamek Stupa, Chaukhandi Stupa, Ashoka Pillar & Sarnath Museum

  • Evening free for shopping or optional aarti/ghat visit

  • Overnight in Varanasi

Day 3 – Departure

  • Leisure breakfast & check-out

  • Drop at Railway Station / Airport


✅ Package Inclusions

  • Comfortable Hotel Accommodation (2 Nights)

  • Breakfast & Local Transfers

  • Private Boat Ride (Evening & Morning)

  • Guided City & Temple Tour

  • Sarnath Day Trip with AC Cab

  • 24x7 On-Ground Support


❌ Exclusions

  • Entry tickets to monuments/museums

  • Personal expenses

  • Additional sightseeing not mentioned in itinerary

  • GST as applicable


🎯 Why Choose Shiv Akashi Travels?

  • Local Experts with Decades of Experience

  • Verified Boatmen & Guides

  • Personalized Itineraries – No Group Rush

  • 24x7 Customer Assistance

  • 100% Safety & Satisfaction Guarantee


📞 Book Your Dev Diwali Experience Now!

Limited seats available due to high demand during the festival.
📲 Call/WhatsApp: +91 8081787687
📧 Emil -   info@shivakashitravels.com

Explore the Spiritual Essence of Kashi
🙏🏻 Book your Kashi Tour Package today with Shivakashi Travels and experience the divine journey of Varanasi, Ayodhya & Prayagraj.
📱- 07905790603
📱- 08081787687
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✨ Plan your spiritual journey with us and make your trip memorable! ✨

Saturday, August 23, 2025

Airport Cab and Taxi Service in kashi

 

Cab Taxi Service at Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport, Varanasi

Need Taxi for pick up or drop at Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport, Varanasi. Shivakashi Travels provide the best airport cab service for you at a very economical price.

Our affordable cars like Swift Dzire, Innova are always available at the airport. You can also Book premium luxury Sedan Cars like BMW, Audi, Mercedes, Honda City and SUV Cars like Fortuner and Innova Crysta or MUV car at Varanasi airport. Get chauffeur driven car for airport pick up and drop off to or from Varanasi City. Call us 24/7 for Instant Taxi Service at Varanasi airport.

Hire Luxury Bus or Tempo Traveller for Varanasi airport transfers

Want to hire Bus or Tempo Traveller for a big group from Varanasi airport? Our Buses are available for various points in Varanasi City from Airport. Rent a bus and tempo traveler for the large group (12,15,17, 35, 45 and 49 seater Bus) for Airport transfer.

Varanasi Airport Cab/Taxi Fare (Price List)

Cab Seating Capacity Luggage Capacity Air Conditioning Offer Price
Innova Crysta 6-7 seater + Driver 4-5 Bags Yes Rs.1350 Rs.1250
Innova 6-7 seater + Driver 4-5 Bags Yes Rs.1250 Rs.1150
Swift Dzire 4 seater + Driver 4 Bags Yes Rs.800 Rs.750
Indigo 4 seater + Driver 4 Bags Yes Rs.800 Rs.750
Etios 4 seater + Driver 4 Bags Yes Rs.950 Rs.900
Tavera/Xylo 6 seater + Driver 4-5 Bags Yes Rs.1150 Rs.1100
Honda City 4 seater + Driver 4 Bags Yes Rs1500
Tempo Traveller 10-15 seater + Driver 10-15 Bags Yes Rs.2200
Mini Bus 20 seater + Driver 20 Bags Yes Rs.5500
Large Bus 35-45 seater + Driver 35-45 Bags Yes Rs.6500

Additional Information:

  • Chauffeur driven professional, on-time and reliable 'Varanasi Airport Taxi' Service.
  • Chauffeur will pick you up with a Placard at the arrivals terminal of 'Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport, Varanasi'.
  • Affordable Pricing.
  • Instant Service Available 24/7.
  • No extra charges for airport transfers at night.
  • No extra charges for luggage.
  • Phone Booking avaliable.
  • * Aiport Parking is chargable.
  • * Driver Night Charge applicable after 10pm and befor 5am.
Top Link

Pind Daan and Shradha Package

 

"भाद्रपद मास की अमावस्या को महालया अमावस्या कहा जाता है। इस पूरे पक्ष को पितृपक्ष कहा जाता है, जब दिवंगत पूर्वजों के प्रति कृतज्ञता व्यक्त की जाती है और श्राद्ध आदि कर्म किए जाते हैं। इसे सर्वपितृ अमावस्या भी कहते हैं।"

According to Hindu beliefs, Pind Daan is a sacred ritual performed to express gratitude to one’s ancestors. It is believed that no endeavor succeeds without the blessings of forefathers, and offering Pind Daan invokes their blessings for prosperity and peace.

Performing this ritual as described in ancient texts helps the departed souls attain Moksha (salvation) and brings peace to the family.

What is Pind Daan?

Hindus believe that even after death, the soul lingers in the material world due to emotional bonds and attachments. This creates suffering for the soul. Through Pind Daan, these souls find release and peace, allowing them to move toward the ultimate world of liberation. This ritual is considered a sacred duty for every devout Hindu.

Where is Pind Daan performed?

It can be performed on the banks of the holy Ganges or other sacred places in India. Gaya in Bihar is one of the most popular locations.

Benefits of Pind Daan

Performing Pind Daan is said to remove obstacles in life and bring sudden positive changes. Many have observed improvements in their personal and spiritual lives after performing this ritual.

Why is Pind Daan important?

As per the Vedas, no work can reach its full potential without the blessings of ancestors. Pind Daan is the most effective way to help restless souls attain peace, which in turn blesses the entire family.

How does Pind Daan benefit me?

Along with removing obstacles, this ritual fulfills the three main debts (Rin) in life:

  1. Pitra Rin (debt to ancestors)
  2. Dev Rin (debt to deities)
  3. Rishi Rin (debt to sages)

Pitra Rin involves:

  1. Antyeshti Sanskar (funeral rites)
  2. Asthi Visarjan (immersing ashes in the Ganges)
  3. Shraddh (memorial feast)
  4. Brahmin Bhoj (offering food to priests)

Dev Rin includes:

  1. Vedic rituals
  2. Rudrabhishek
  3. Yagya (holy offerings)

Rishi Rin includes:

  1. Seva and Satkar (service and respect)
  2. Daan (charity)

While Dev Rin and Rishi Rin can be fulfilled in daily life, Pitra Rin is fulfilled through Pind Daan, which grants peace and prosperity to the entire family.


Sunday, August 3, 2025

Ganga Mahotsav

 

The Ganga Mahotsav is an annual, five-day grand festival celebrated in Varanasi, India, with the primary aim of showcasing the cultural heritage and significance of the sacred River Ganges. This event attracts visitors from across the globe and serves as a beautiful celebration that reveres the river and its profound spiritual importance in Varanasi. Throughout the festival's duration, a diverse array of cultural performances takes place, encompassing classical music and dance recitals, captivating art exhibitions, thrilling boat races, and the majestic Ganga Aarti, a significant worship ceremony held at the renowned Dashashwamedh Ghat. The Ganga Aarti involves elaborate rituals performed by priests, accompanied by hymns, and the ethereal sight of lamps and candles floating on the water, creating an awe-inspiring spectacle.

One of the highlights of the festival is the procession led by a group of revered priests who ceremoniously carry the holy Ganges water. This sanctified water is then poured into a sizable tank, attracting people from all walks of life who seek to partake in the sacred act of taking a dip to attain spiritual purification.

In addition to the religious elements, the Ganga Mahotsav also encompasses various cultural performances, including captivating dance, melodious music, and engaging theater presentations. The festival provides a platform to celebrate the rich artistic and cultural heritage of the region.

To enhance the overall experience, numerous stalls are set up during the event, offering a diverse range of items such as delectable food, souvenirs, and religious artifacts, providing attendees with an opportunity to indulge in local flavors and take home cherished mementos from their visit to Varanasi.

In essence, the Ganga Mahotsav stands as a profound testament to the deep-rooted reverence that the people of India hold for the sacred Ganges River. By commemorating the river's historical and cultural significance, this vibrant festival fosters a sense of unity and spiritual devotion among the participants, while also attracting travelers and pilgrims from around the world who seek to witness and be a part of this unique cultural celebration.

Organized By: The Ganga Mahotsav is organized by various cultural organizations, government bodies, and local authorities in Varanasi.

06 Nov, 2025 - 08 Nov, 2025

Prayagraj Magh Mela 2026

  Prayagraj Magh Mela 2026 – Important Bathing Dates (Snan Dates) Venue: Triveni Sangam, Prayagraj Duration: 3 January 2026 – 15...