Thursday, October 23, 2025

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

Arrival in Varanasi (morning or night before)
Hotel check-in and breakfast
Visit to Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Walk through the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor
Explore Annapurna Temple, Kal Bhairav Temple
Lunch at a local restaurant
Visit Sarnath (Buddhist heritage site, museum, and stupa)
Attend Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat in the evening
Dinner and overnight stay

Day 2: Sunrise & Local Experiences

Early morning sunrise boat ride on the Ganga
Visit Manikarnika Ghat, Assi Ghat, and other historic spots
Breakfast at a traditional café
Explore Banarasi silk weaving, local markets, and handicrafts
Visit Tulsi Manas Mandir, Durga Kund, or BHU campus
Lunch and relaxation at hotel
Departure in the evening

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

Take a boat ride on the Ganges during sunrise
Attend Subah-e-Banaras, the morning cultural event at Assi Ghat
Offer prayers and perform rituals at various temples
Shop for Banarasi sarees, incense, and handicrafts
Taste local delights like kachaudi-jalebi, banarasi paan, and lassi

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:

Call us: +91-8081787687
Visit: https://shivakashitravels.com
WhatsApp: Click the floating chat button on our website

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

Friday, October 17, 2025

Dev Diwali Cruise Booking in Kashi

Dev Diwali Cruise Booking in Varanasi – A Complete Guide

Dev Diwali, or Dev Deepawali, is one of the most spectacular festivals celebrated on the ghats of Varanasi. On this full moon night of Kartik Purnima, millions of diyas light up the river, creating a divine spectacle. Witnessing this festival from the river on a luxury cruise is a magical experience, allowing you to enjoy the illuminated ghats, spiritual rituals, and cultural festivities up close.

Booking a Dev Diwali cruise in Varanasi ensures a comfortable, safe, and unforgettable experience for families, tourists, and photographers.

Why Book a Dev Diwali Cruise?

Best View of Illuminated Ghats
The ghats from Assi to Dashashwamedh are adorned with millions of lamps. Viewing them from the river provides a 360-degree panoramic experience impossible to get from the shore.
Comfort & Convenience
Cruises provide seating, guided narration, and sometimes food and beverages. You avoid the crowds while still enjoying the spiritual spectacle.
Photography & Videography
A cruise offers uninterrupted photo opportunities of the beautifully lit ghats, floating diyas, and cultural performances.
Guided Experience
Most cruise packages include guides who explain the rituals, history, and significance of Dev Diwali and Ganga Aarti.

Types of Dev Diwali Cruises

Luxury Cruises – Private seating, gourmet meals, professional guides, and music.
Standard Cruises – Comfortable boats for group tourists with commentary and refreshments.
Private Boat Rides – Ideal for couples, families, or photographers seeking personalized experiences.

Pro Tip: Book your cruise at least 2–3 weeks in advance, as seats fill quickly during Dev Diwali.

Best Ghats to View from Cruise

Dashashwamedh Ghat – Central hub for the grand Ganga Aarti.
Assi Ghat – For serene views of morning and evening rituals.
Panchganga Ghat – Mythologically significant and photogenic.
Chet Singh Ghat – Heritage ghat beautifully decorated during festivals.

Cruises cover multiple ghats, giving a 360-degree immersive experience of Dev Diwali.

How to Book Your Dev Diwali Cruise

Booking with Shivakashi Travels ensures:

Verified and licensed boats
Onboard safety measures
Comfortable seating and refreshments
Experienced guides for commentary

???? Book Now: Dev Diwali Cruise Booking

Dev Diwali Boat Ride 2025 – Book Now!

Experience the Magic of Dev Diwali from the Ganges!

Join us on 5th November 2025 for a once-in-a-lifetime boat ride during Dev Diwali in Varanasi. Witness 84 ghats lit up with thousands of diyas, enjoy cultural programs, and see the majestic Ganga Aarti from the water!

Reporting Ghat: Ravidas Ghat
Time: 4:00 PM Reporting | 5:00 PM–8:00 PM Ride

Boat Options:

Motor Boat: ₹3,499/person
Light Motor Boat: ₹4,999/person
Bajra (Maharaja) Boat: ₹11,999/person (For Dashashwamedh Aarti View)
Private Boat (1–20 persons): From ₹60,000

Inclusions: Snacks, Mineral Water, Full Ghat Ride
Booking via Call/WhatsApp | UPI & Online Payment Accepted
Limited Seats – High Demand

Make this Dev Diwali divine and memorable with Shiva Kashi Travels.

Book Now - +91 8081787687
info@shivakashitravels.com
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

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.

Dev Diwali Ganga Aarti by Boat

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 deepdaan, by 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

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.

Contact Us

Babatpur, Sagunha, Uttar Pradesh 221204,
Uttar Pradesh 221002 –INDIA

+91 7905790603

+91 9935683484

+91 9278322002

+91 8081787687

(A Unit Of Visit Kashi )

shivakashitravel@gmail.com

Dev Diwali Cruise Booking in Varanasi

Dev Diwali Cruise Booking in Varanasi – Witness the Divine Glow of the Ganga

Introduction

Varanasi, the spiritual capital of India, glitters like heaven during Dev Diwali, also known as Dev Deepawali – the “Festival of Lights of the Gods.” On this sacred night, every ghat along the Ganga River is lit up with thousands of diyas (lamps), creating a breathtaking reflection of light on the holy water.
The most beautiful way to witness this divine spectacle is by booking a Dev Diwali Cruise in Varanasi — an experience that lets you enjoy the Ganga Aarti, fireworks, and illuminated ghats from the calm waters of the river itself.

About Dev Diwali in Varanasi

Dev Diwali is celebrated on Kartik Purnima, fifteen days after Diwali. According to Hindu belief, it marks the victory of Lord Shiva over demon Tripurasura, and it’s said that all gods descend to the Ganga on this day to take a holy dip.
The ghats of Varanasi come alive with diyas, rituals, and cultural performances, making it one of the most spectacular spiritual events in India.

Why Choose a Cruise for Dev Diwali?

During Dev Diwali, the ghats are extremely crowded — making it difficult to find space to stand or enjoy the view.
A Dev Diwali Cruise offers you:

A panoramic view of 84 beautifully lit ghats
A front-row seat to the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat
Peaceful surroundings away from the crowd
Comfortable seating with refreshments
A chance to capture stunning photos and videos from the river

This luxurious experience combines spirituality with comfort — allowing you to witness the magic of Dev Diwali like never before.

Highlights of the Dev Diwali Cruise Experience

???? Evening Boarding: Board your cruise around 5:00 PM, just before sunset.
???? Millions of Diyas: Watch the ghats glow as devotees light countless lamps.
???? Ganga Aarti & Fireworks: Witness the grand Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, followed by fireworks that illuminate the Varanasi skyline.
???? Photography Moments: Capture unforgettable moments of light and devotion.
☕ Comfort & Refreshments: Enjoy tea, snacks, and a serene view on deck.

Dev Diwali 2025 Date & Cruise Timings

Date: 5 November 2025 (Wednesday)
Boarding Time: 5:00 PM
Cruise Duration: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM

(Timings may vary slightly depending on lunar position and crowd conditions.)

Dev Diwali Cruise Facilities

Air-conditioned and open-deck seating
Onboard refreshments (tea, coffee, snacks)
Professional guide and live commentary
Safety life jackets and trained staff
Clean washroom facility
Stunning view of all 84 ghats

Dev Diwali Cruise Booking with Shivakashi Travels

Shivakashi Travels makes Dev Diwali Cruise booking in Varanasi easy, reliable, and affordable.
We offer different cruise options based on your preference and budget

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