Showing posts with label Festivals in Kashi. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Festivals in Kashi. Show all posts

Saturday, January 24, 2026

KASHI TOUR 5 DAYS PACKAGE

 

KASHI TOUR 5 DAYS PACKAGE

Day 01-Arrival at Varanasi – 

Arrivals at Varanasi Airport/Railway Station, Our Representative will Meet & Greet you. Later Transfer to your Pre Booked Hotel. Check in to Hotel. Overnight Stay at Varanasi.

Day 02-Varanasi – Sightseeing

Moring 05 AM Visit Old Kashi Vishwanath TempleAnnapurna Temple & Vishalashi TempleKal Bhairav Temple then back to Hotel, Have Breakfast & visiting New Kashi Vishwanath Temple (BHU) also known as Birla TempleSankat Mochan Temple, Durga TempleTulsi Manas Mandir .After Lunch Then take a Excursion to Buddhist Town Sarnath-The hallowed spot where Lord Buddha Preached His First Sermon after Enlightenment in Deer Park, contains the most impressive remains, as well as a Modem Temple, The Dharmarajika,Chaukhandi Stupa & Dhamek Stupa are Outstanding, There are Newly Built 80 Feet Lord Buddha Statue is the Also a Alteration, There are also the remains of a Monastery & the Beautifully Polished Lion Capital of Ashoka. In the evening, experience the Hindu ritual Aarti. Aartis also refer to the songs sung in praise of the deity, when offering of lamps is being offered. Hindus in India worship the river Ganges as goddess. Every evening in Varanasi, Aarti is performed at the Dashashwamedh Ghat. We can watch it from the Ghat or from the waterside in a boat. It is a beautiful, resonant, and majestic spectacle with a very precise choreography involving rituals performed by several priests with the sound of bells, drums, cymbals, and Sanskrit mantras & Boating (Direct Payment) on River Ganga, Back to Hotel. Overnight Stay at Varanasi.

Day 03- Varanasi- Prayagraj  – Varanasi   

 Moring 5 AM Visit Old Kashi Vishwanath TempleAnnapurna Temple & Vishalashi Temple, then back to Hote.Have Breakfast Proceed to Allahabad then  Visit the Holy Triveni Sangam,Hanuman TempleAnnand Bhawan & Alopi Devi Temple, at Evening  Back to Varanasi Hotel .Overnight Stay at Varanasi .

Day 04-Varanasi- Gaya – Varanasi   

 Early Morning Proceed to Gaya, After reach visit  Niranjana River  Pind Dan Puja  Vishnupad  Temple  then visit Mangla Gauri Temple, After Lunch Proceed to Bodhgaya  ,Sujata Temple & Sujata Kheerdan Stahal ,Mahabodhi TempleBodhi TreeGreat Buddha Statue, and Monastery, Perform Ritual, & Return back to Varanasi. Overnight Stay  at  Varanasi.

Day 05-Varanasi –Departure –

After Breakfast Check out from Hotel . Than drop to Varanasi Airport/Railway Station for Your Return/Onward Journey.

…………………… Tour End With Sweet Memoirs ……………………

Hotel Check in Time – 12:00 Afternoon

Hotel Checkout Time – 11:00 AM

Rate  02 Adult – Double Occupancy – 13500/-Per Person

Rate 03 Adult  – Triple Occupancy – 10500/-Per Person

Inclusion –

Sedan Car

Breakfast

Return Railway station/ Airport transfer & all sight seen as per itinerary.

  • All tours and transfer on  Sedan
  • Toll taxes, Parking and fuel.
  • All applicable vehicle taxes, toll, parking fees, permit charge etc. 
  • Interstate permits charges & Driver Bata
  • All applicable taxes.   

Package Cost Excludes:

  • Extras at the hotel
  • Boat Ride 
  • Temple Pooja
  • Personal Purchase
  • Tickets Fare

Rate 04 Adult  – 02 Double Room  – 10,500/-Per Person

Rate 06 Adult  – 03 Double Room  – 9500/-Per Person

Inclusion –

AC Innova Car 

Breakfast

Return Railway station/ Airport transfer & all sight seen as per itinerary.

  • All tours and transfer on  Innova
  • Toll taxes, Parking and fuel.
  • All applicable vehicle taxes, toll, parking fees, permit charge etc. 
  • Interstate permits charges & Driver Bata
  • All applicable taxes.   

Package Cost Excludes:

  • Extras at the hotel
  • Boat Ride 
  • Temple Pooja
  • Personal Purchase

 

Thursday, January 22, 2026

Bajra Boat Booking Varanasi

Book Bajra Boat in Varanasi at the best price with Shivakashi Travels and enjoy exciting offers on boat ride tariffs. Experience the serenity of the holy Ganga as you create peaceful and memorable moments with your friends, loved ones, and family.

The ghats of Varanasi are iconic riverfront steps stretching along nearly 7 km of the Ganges, with a total of 88 ghats. Most ghats are used for sacred bathing rituals and puja ceremonies, while a few are dedicated exclusively to cremation rites. Many of these historic ghats were rebuilt in the 18th century during the Maratha period, adding to the timeless spiritual charm of Kashi.

 


PRIVATE HAND BOAT BOOKING

PRIVATE MOTOR BOAT BOOKING

PRIVATE LIGHT MOTOR BOAT BOOKING

PRIVATE PREMIUM LIGHT MOTOR BOAT

PRIVATE BAJRA BOAT BOOKING

PRIVATE MUSICAL BOAT RIDE IN VARANASI

LUXURY BOAT TOUR VARANASI

EVENT BOAT BOOKING

VARANASI PHOTOGRAPHY BOAT TOUR

 

 

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
📌 Stay updated with our latest travel videos & offers –
🎥 YouTube:
👉 Don’t forget to Like 👍 & Subscribe 🔔 to our channel for new updates!
✨ Plan your spiritual journey with us and make your trip memorable! ✨

Tuesday, July 22, 2025

Dev Deepawali in Varanasi: A Celestial Manifestation in the City of Light

 

Dev Deepawali in Varanasi: A Celestial Manifestation in the City of Light

Dev Deepawali, often called Dev Diwali, is one of the most magnificent festivals celebrated in Varanasi—the spiritual capital of India. This grand festival takes place on Kartik Poornima, the full moon night of the Hindu month of Kartik, which falls fifteen days after Diwali.

Interestingly, Dev Deepawali is not an isolated celebration. It marks the grand finale of the famous Ganga Mahotsav, a five-day cultural extravaganza that begins on Prabodhini Ekadashi (the 11th day of the lunar month of Kartik) and culminates in the ethereal glow of Dev Deepawali.

This year, Dev Deepawali in Varanasi will be celebrated on 15 November, turning the ghats of the sacred Ganga into a breathtaking sea of countless diyas (earthen lamps). Thousands of devotees, pilgrims, and travelers gather to witness this divine spectacle.

Adding to its spiritual significance, Dev Deepawali also coincides with Guru Nanak Jayanti and the Jain Light Festival, making it a truly inclusive and vibrant occasion. The night is marked by rituals, devotional songs, cultural performances, and the shimmering reflection of millions of lamps on the holy river—an experience that feels nothing short of celestial.

Dev Deepawali Date 2025
November 05, 2025

Not to be confused with Deepawali (or Diwali), Dev Deepawali or Dev Diwali in Varanasi is a festival celebrated every year on the occasion of Kartik Poornima. This happens to be 15 days after Diwali. This year, Dev Deepawali in Varanasi will be on November 05, 2025.

For most travellers and spiritual seekers alike, Varanasi is a dream destination. People from all over the world come and stay in this city for days, seeking spiritual peace, meditating on the banks of the Holy River Ganga and paying several visits to the temples in what is popularly known as the city of temples. Dev Deepawali in Varanasi or Dev Diwali is that time of the year when Varanasi truly seems like an abode of the Gods, not just of temples. Often known as the City of Light, Dev Deepawali is probably a manifestation of this very epithet.

 

Dev Deepawali in Varanasi Celebrations

The traditional plan of events for Dev Deepawali in Varanasi is quite elaborate and is followed religiously every year. The ceremony starts with the offering of prayers (Ganesh Vandana) and flowers to Lord Ganesh. This is followed by the offering of lit earthen lamps or diyas, known as deepdaanby 21 Brahmins and 41 young girls with the chanting of Vedic mantras in the background. A lot of devotees take a dip in the river Ganges on this auspicious day, known as Kartik Snan. This ritual is believed to rid a person of his/her sins. Many households also organize Akhand Ramayan (chanting of the holy scripture, Ramayana) followed by Bhoj where food is offered to people.

Apart from having a religious tinge to it, martyrs are also remembered at the ghats. This is done by praying to Ganga Mata and by offering an aarti to her. This is organized by Ganga Seva Nidhi when wreaths are placed at Amar Jawan Jyoti at Dashashwamedh Ghat and also at the adjoining Rajendra Prasad Ghat by police officials, and also the members of the three armed forces. To mark this event, patriotic songs are also sung.

dev diwali in Varanasi 2017, dev deepawali

Ghats Are Lit Up With Diyas

Dev Deepawali is a spectacle worth beholding in Varanasi. Every ghat and temple in the Holy City is alight with earthen ghee diyas. Whether the stars have found their way down to the Earth or not, one can hardly say. It is believed that the Gods descend to Varanasi on this auspicious occasion to take a dip in the River Ganga. This is what makes this festival so popular. Tourists from all over the country flock to Varanasi during this auspicious festival. On the night of the main festival, thousands of people, locals and tourists alike, come to watch the spectacular and elaborate aarti at the river ghats. With thousands of diyas lit all over the place. The view is rather enchanting and magical, despite a large number of people.

The Ganga Aarti: The Culmination of Dev Deepawali in Varanasi

dev diwali in Varanasi 2017, dev deepawali

 

If you thought Benares was the champion of Ganga Aarti, wait till you attend the Ganga Aarti on Dev Deepawali in Varanasi. The ghats are seen to be teeming with people from all over the country and the world, but the crowded Dashashwamedh Ghat is in no way devoid of excitement or enthusiasm. The Ganga Aarti you will see on the evening of Dev Deepawali is the most elaborate Ganga Aarti that is performed during the whole year.

You will soon grow tired of counting or imagining the sheer number of earthen lamps on the ghats and will be taken aback by the exquisite beauty of this particular evening in Banaras. The evening aarti at Assi Ghat is the next hotspot for visitors to flock. Reeva Ghat, Man Mandir Ghat, Kedar Ghat and Panch Ganga Ghat should also be visited on the evening of Dev Deepawali in Varanasi.

The Ganga Mahotsav

A Cultural Panorama and Food Paradise

dev diwali in Varanasi 2017, dev deepawali

Cultural Festivals on the occasion of Ganga Mahotsav (Source)

Ganga Mahotsav, as stated earlier, begins on Prabodhini Ekadashi and goes on for five days. Life and culture in and around Varanasi is believed to be blessed by the holy River Ganga. Ganga Mahotsav is celebrated as a token of thankfulness of the people towards the bountiful river. Ganga Mahotsav is typically held at the Dashashwamedh Ghat but has recently been shifted to the Ravidas Ghat. Varanasi comes alive with music, dance and theatre these few days with maestros like Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, Pandit Chhanulal Mishra, Birju Maharaj, Anuradha Paudwal and several others. Gracing the stage with their presence. Each year, throughout the five days of the festival, the who's who of dance, drama and music embellish the aura of the festival with their presence. It's the time to be in Varanasi to soak in the culture of the city.

The Ganga Mahotsav is the best way to savour the delicacies of Banaras at a single place. A mini-fair brimming with the sheer spread of Banarasi chaats, Bati Chokha, Mughlai cuisine and continental treats that Banaras has to offer in one shot. Could we ask for anymore?

Plan Your Travel to Varanasi for Dev Deepawali:

The reservations in Varanasi are made months before Dev Deepawali. However, if you're planning a trip,  the best option would be to get to your bookings right away. As with most holiday destinations, the place may be packed, but you will love every bit of the experience. On the evening of Dev Deepawali in Varanasi, get on a boat and savour the beauty of the ghats adorned with lights as far as your eyes can see. With Zostel (backpacker's hostel) in Varanasi, it has become even easier for Backpackers and solo travellers to find a good place to stay in Varanasi.

Varanasi Travel Guide

dev diwali in Varanasi 2017, dev deepawali

Ganga Mahotsav and Dev Deepawali (Source)

The city was designed in the shape of a bow, in keeping with the meandering River Ganga. Dev Deepawali in Varanasi is the time to see that bow lit to every last inch. If you're a haggler, get to the other side of the river on a boat and savour the beauty of all 84 Ganga Ghats of Varanasi lit like a fairy lantern. I promise you, Dev Diwali in Varanasi is an experience that you will never, ever forget!

Sunday, June 29, 2025

Explore Varanasi Beyond Temples: Culture, Food & Hidden Gems

 

Uncover the Lesser-Known Wonders of Kashi

Varanasi is often seen through the lens of spirituality and temples, but for those who look deeper, it reveals a beautiful world of heritage, flavors, music, and human stories. This blog is a perfect guide for domestic travelers who have visited the famous temples and are now ready to explore the real essence of Varanasi — beyond its religious façade.


Dive Into Varanasi’s Cultural Pulse

Music that Moves the Soul

Varanasi is a city where music flows in the air. It’s the birthplace of classical music legends like Pandit Ravi Shankar and Ustad Bismillah Khan. Evenings often bring alive the sound of sitar, tabla, and shehnai at local events, especially at Assi Ghat, where cultural programs are held regularly.

Art in Every Corner

Walk through the narrow lanes of Chowk and Bengali Tola, and you’ll find artists painting gods on walls, hand-carving wooden toys, and creating brass lamps. Varanasi is not just a spiritual hub; it's a living museum of traditional Indian craftsmanship.


A Culinary Journey Through the Streets

Start with a Banarasi Breakfast

Kick off your day with Kachori-Sabzi and Jalebi — a staple in every Banarasi household. You’ll find the most authentic ones at Ram Bhandar in Thatheri Bazaar or Shri Rajbandhu in Godowlia.

Midday Snacks You Shouldn’t Miss

  • Tamatar Chaat – A spicy, tangy twist you’ll only find in Varanasi

  • Choora Matar – Flattened rice tossed with peas, chilies, and ghee

  • Baati Chokha – A rustic, smoky delicacy from Bhojpuri kitchens

End on a Sweet Note

Whether it’s Malaiyyo in winter or Lassi with cream in summer, Varanasi knows how to serve dessert in style. Don’t forget the Banarasi Paan — it’s not just food, it’s an experience.


Walk Off the Beaten Path

The Weavers of Madanpura

Behind every Banarasi saree is a story. Visit the lanes of Madanpura or Lallapura to witness master weavers creating intricate silk sarees by hand — a craft passed down for generations.

Literary & Intellectual Spots

  • Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum (inside BHU) – Rare sculptures, manuscripts, and art

  • Saraswati Bhawan Library – One of the oldest collections of texts and books in India

  • Local book cafés and cultural hubs around Assi Ghat and Sigra

Unique Experiences

  • Join a yoga session by the river at dawn

  • Take a heritage walk through Vishwanath Gali

  • Learn Banarasi cooking in a local kitchen

  • Attend a Sanskrit class or musical baithak at a gurukul


Lesser-Known Places to Visit

  • Ramnagar Fort – Located across the Ganga, it offers a glimpse into royal Banaras

  • Gyan Vapi Well – A historic site within the Kashi Vishwanath corridor

  • Kedar Ghat – Less crowded, yet deeply spiritual and scenic

  • Lanka Market – For affordable clothes, accessories, and quick bites


Tips for Culture-Focused Travelers

  • Start early to beat the crowd and heat

  • Talk to locals — they’ll guide you to hidden gems

  • Avoid weekends if you want a quieter experience

  • Respect traditions, even when you're off the temple trail

  • Use guided tours for local insights — or book with Shivakashi Travels for authentic experiences


Experience Kashi Like Never Before

Temples are just the beginning. The real Varanasi lives in its ghats, galis, kitchens, and karigars (craftsmen). To truly feel its heartbeat, you have to walk slowly, observe deeply, and let yourself get lost in its charm.

Let Shivakashi Travels help you go beyond the brochure — and into the heart of Banaras.

Book a cultural experience with us today:
👉 https://shivakashitravels.com

Hand Boat Booking in Varanasi

During Ganga Aarti boat parked in front of Ceremoney at Dashaswamedh Ghat. 

Ghats Cover: Assi Ghat, Tulsi Ghat, Janki Ghat, Jain Ghat, Prabhu Ghat, Chet Singh Ghat, Niranjani Ghat, Shivala Ghat, Hanuman Ghat, Harishchandra Ghat, Narad Ghat, Pandey Ghat, Dashaswamedh Ghat, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat,.and so on NAMO Ghat

Evening Ganga Aarti Time ? 06:45 PM-07:30 PM
Boat Type Private Motor Boat (Diesel/CNG/Petrol)
Reporting Time 05:15 PM 
Boat Ride Timing 05:30 PM-07:45 PM (2hr)
 Price 1-6 Pax (If more than 6+)  ₹ 299/- Person

Private Motor Boat (Capacity 15 Pax)

₹ 3,499/-* (Assi- Manikarnika) 3.5km- 50 Ghats
₹ 3,999/-* (Assi- NAMO) 7km-84 Ghats

 

The same Boat shown in the Image is based on subject to availability. Due to High Demand Saturday, and Sunday or Same day Boat may be subject to availability. For Booking Confirmation WhatsApp us.

* Note: Please note Rates may be subject to change based on availability, Weather Conditions, Group Size, and Special Requests. Please call ahead for Pricing and Reservation for DEV DEEPAVALI.

 

Meeting Point Ghat
Languages English, HindiHindi
Includes
  • Life Jackets, Private Boat
Pickup From
  • Assi Ghat, Dashaswamedh Ghat, NAMO Ghat, Gaay Ghat

PRIVATE HAND BOAT BOOKING IN VARANASI

PRIVATE MUSICAL BOAT RIDE IN VARANASI

PRIVATE BAJRA BOAT BOOKING VARANASI

PRIVATE MOTOR BOAT BOOKING IN VARANASI

 



Saturday, June 28, 2025

Explore the Spiritual and Cultural Heart of India in Just 48 Hours

 

Varanasi, the spiritual capital of India, is the perfect destination for a weekend escape. Whether you’re seeking divine blessings, soulful boat rides, or authentic Banarasi food, Kashi never disappoints. Here's a thoughtfully curated 2-day Varanasi itinerary for domestic tourists looking to experience the soul of India in a short but fulfilling trip.


📅 Day 1: Spiritual Immersion & Ganga Aarti

🕕 6:00 AM – Sunrise Boat Ride on the Ganges

Begin your day early with a boat ride from Assi Ghat to Dashashwamedh Ghat. Witness the ghats come alive with chants, rituals, and the golden sunrise — a magical experience that defines Kashi.
Tip: Book a private or shared boat through Shivakashi Travels for a smooth experience.

🕗 8:00 AM – Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

After the boat ride, visit the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India. Expect some crowd, but the divine energy is worth it.
Note: Wear traditional Indian attire and avoid leather items.

🥣 9:30 AM – Banarasi Breakfast

Enjoy a delicious local breakfast of Kachori-Sabzi, Jalebi, and Lassi at a famous street-side eatery like Kachori Gali or Ram Bhandar.

🏛️ 11:00 AM – Explore Sarnath (Optional)

If you're interested in history and Buddhist heritage, take a short trip to Sarnath, just 10 km away. Visit the Dhamek Stupa, Chaukhandi Stupa, and the Archaeological Museum.

🍛 2:00 PM – Lunch at a Traditional Restaurant

Enjoy a thali at Baati Chokha Restaurant or The Great Kabab Factory (for non-veg lovers).

🛍️ 4:00 PM – Banarasi Saree Shopping

Visit the weavers’ colony in Madanpura or Godowlia Market to shop for Banarasi silk sarees and handicrafts — a must-buy souvenir from Kashi.

🕢 6:30 PM – Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat

The highlight of the trip — witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti with synchronized chanting, lamps, and rituals. You can watch from the ghat or from a boat for a unique perspective.

🍽️ 8:30 PM – Dinner & Rest

End the day with a peaceful dinner. Try Blue Lassi or Bana Lassi for dessert. Return to your hotel for a relaxed night’s stay.


📅 Day 2: Temples, Culture & Local Life

🕗 8:00 AM – Visit Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple

Start your second day with blessings at the Sankat Mochan Temple, a powerful place of worship especially popular among locals.

🛕 9:30 AM – Durga Kund & Tulsi Manas Mandir

Explore the Durga Temple (Durga Kund) and Tulsi Manas Mandir, known for their mythological and architectural significance.

🥞 11:00 AM – Street Food Trail in Godowlia

Sample some of the best Banarasi street food — Tamatar Chaat, Choora Matar, Malaiyyo (seasonal), and more.

🪔 1:00 PM – Explore Bharat Mata Mandir & BHU Campus

Visit Bharat Mata Mandir with its unique map of undivided India in marble. Then take a quick walk around the serene Banaras Hindu University campus.

📸 3:00 PM – Photo Stop at Assi Ghat

Wind down your trip with a peaceful stroll or coffee at Assi Ghat. You can even enjoy cultural performances if you’re lucky.

🚖 5:00 PM – Departure

Pack your bags and head back with beautiful memories, blessings, and a deeper connection with the soul of India — Varanasi.


🧳 Travel Tips for a Smooth Varanasi Trip

  • Best Time to Visit: October to March (pleasant weather)

  • Dress Code: Comfortable Indian wear for temples

  • Avoid: Plastics and leather items in temples

  • Stay Suggestion: Look for hotels near Dashashwamedh or Assi Ghat for easy access to main attractions

  • Book in Advance: Use Shivakashi Travels for taxi, boat, hotel, and customized tours


🙏 Final Thoughts

A weekend in Varanasi can be spiritually enriching and culturally immersive if planned right. With this 2-day itinerary, you can enjoy the best of Kashi without rushing — whether you're traveling solo, with family, or on a pilgrimage.

For customized Varanasi tour packages, safe local transport, and hassle-free bookings, visit 👉 https://shivakashitravels.com

Tuesday, June 10, 2025

Dev Deepawali in Kashi

 

Dev Deepawali in Varanasi: A Celestial Manifestation in the City of Light

Dev Deepawali or Dev Deepawali in Varanasi is celebrated on Kartik Poornima, the full moon of the Hindu month of Kartik, fifteen days after Diwali. Dev Deepawali is not standalone, in itself. It is celebrated on the last day of Ganga Mahotsav, which begins on Prabodhini Ekadashi (11th day of the Lunar month of Kartik) and ends in Dev Deepawali which will fall on November 15 this year. It is interesting to note that Dev Deepawali in Varanasi also coincides with Guru Nanak Jayanti and Jain Light Festival.

Dev Deepawali Date 2025
November 05, 2025

Not to be confused with Deepawali (or Diwali), Dev Deepawali or Dev Diwali in Varanasi is a festival celebrated every year on the occasion of Kartik Poornima. This happens to be 15 days after Diwali. This year, Dev Deepawali in Varanasi will be on November 05, 2025.

For most travellers and spiritual seekers alike, Varanasi is a dream destination. People from all over the world come and stay in this city for days, seeking spiritual peace, meditating on the banks of the Holy River Ganga and paying several visits to the temples in what is popularly known as the city of temples. Dev Deepawali in Varanasi or Dev Diwali is that time of the year when Varanasi truly seems like an abode of the Gods, not just of temples. Often known as the City of Light, Dev Deepawali is probably a manifestation of this very epithet.

 

Dev Deepawali in Varanasi Celebrations

The traditional plan of events for Dev Deepawali in Varanasi is quite elaborate and is followed religiously every year. The ceremony starts with the offering of prayers (Ganesh Vandana) and flowers to Lord Ganesh. This is followed by the offering of lit earthen lamps or diyas, known as deepdaanby 21 Brahmins and 41 young girls with the chanting of Vedic mantras in the background. A lot of devotees take a dip in the river Ganges on this auspicious day, known as Kartik Snan. This ritual is believed to rid a person of his/her sins. Many households also organize Akhand Ramayan (chanting of the holy scripture, Ramayana) followed by Bhoj where food is offered to people.

Apart from having a religious tinge to it, martyrs are also remembered at the ghats. This is done by praying to Ganga Mata and by offering an aarti to her. This is organized by Ganga Seva Nidhi when wreaths are placed at Amar Jawan Jyoti at Dashashwamedh Ghat and also at the adjoining Rajendra Prasad Ghat by police officials, and also the members of the three armed forces. To mark this event, patriotic songs are also sung.

dev diwali in Varanasi 2017, dev deepawali

Ghats Are Lit Up With Diyas

Dev Deepawali is a spectacle worth beholding in Varanasi. Every ghat and temple in the Holy City is alight with earthen ghee diyas. Whether the stars have found their way down to the Earth or not, one can hardly say. It is believed that the Gods descend to Varanasi on this auspicious occasion to take a dip in the River Ganga. This is what makes this festival so popular. Tourists from all over the country flock to Varanasi during this auspicious festival. On the night of the main festival, thousands of people, locals and tourists alike, come to watch the spectacular and elaborate aarti at the river ghats. With thousands of diyas lit all over the place. The view is rather enchanting and magical, despite a large number of people.

The Ganga Aarti: The Culmination of Dev Deepawali in Varanasi

dev diwali in Varanasi 2017, dev deepawali

 

If you thought Benares was the champion of Ganga Aarti, wait till you attend the Ganga Aarti on Dev Deepawali in Varanasi. The ghats are seen to be teeming with people from all over the country and the world, but the crowded Dashashwamedh Ghat is in no way devoid of excitement or enthusiasm. The Ganga Aarti you will see on the evening of Dev Deepawali is the most elaborate Ganga Aarti that is performed during the whole year.

You will soon grow tired of counting or imagining the sheer number of earthen lamps on the ghats and will be taken aback by the exquisite beauty of this particular evening in Banaras. The evening aarti at Assi Ghat is the next hotspot for visitors to flock. Reeva Ghat, Man Mandir Ghat, Kedar Ghat and Panch Ganga Ghat should also be visited on the evening of Dev Deepawali in Varanasi.

The Ganga Mahotsav

A Cultural Panorama and Food Paradise

dev diwali in Varanasi 2017, dev deepawali

Cultural Festivals on the occasion of Ganga Mahotsav (Source)

Ganga Mahotsav, as stated earlier, begins on Prabodhini Ekadashi and goes on for five days. Life and culture in and around Varanasi is believed to be blessed by the holy River Ganga. Ganga Mahotsav is celebrated as a token of thankfulness of the people towards the bountiful river. Ganga Mahotsav is typically held at the Dashashwamedh Ghat but has recently been shifted to the Ravidas Ghat. Varanasi comes alive with music, dance and theatre these few days with maestros like Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, Pandit Chhanulal Mishra, Birju Maharaj, Anuradha Paudwal and several others. Gracing the stage with their presence. Each year, throughout the five days of the festival, the who's who of dance, drama and music embellish the aura of the festival with their presence. It's the time to be in Varanasi to soak in the culture of the city.

The Ganga Mahotsav is the best way to savour the delicacies of Banaras at a single place. A mini-fair brimming with the sheer spread of Banarasi chaats, Bati Chokha, Mughlai cuisine and continental treats that Banaras has to offer in one shot. Could we ask for anymore?

Plan Your Travel to Varanasi for Dev Deepawali:

The reservations in Varanasi are made months before Dev Deepawali. However, if you're planning a trip,  the best option would be to get to your bookings right away. As with most holiday destinations, the place may be packed, but you will love every bit of the experience. On the evening of Dev Deepawali in Varanasi, get on a boat and savour the beauty of the ghats adorned with lights as far as your eyes can see. With Zostel (backpacker's hostel) in Varanasi, it has become even easier for Backpackers and solo travellers to find a good place to stay in Varanasi.

Varanasi Travel Guide

dev diwali in Varanasi 2017, dev deepawali

Ganga Mahotsav and Dev Deepawali (Source)

The city was designed in the shape of a bow, in keeping with the meandering River Ganga. Dev Deepawali in Varanasi is the time to see that bow lit to every last inch. If you're a haggler, get to the other side of the river on a boat and savour the beauty of all 84 Ganga Ghats of Varanasi lit like a fairy lantern. I promise you, Dev Diwali in Varanasi is an experience that you will never, ever forget!

Varanasi Travel Guide

Varanasi Travel Guide (2026 Edition) Best Places, Itinerary, Darshan, Ganga Aarti & Tour Packages Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Bana...