Experience the vibrant celebrations of Varanasi
Dev Deepawali, also known as the "Diwali of the Gods," is a festival celebrated in Varanasi, India, on the full moon night (Kartik Poornima) of the Hindu month of Kartika. Dev Deepawali holds significant religious and cultural importance in Varanasi. It commemorates Lord Shiva's victory over the demon Tripurasura, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. According to tradition, Hindu gods descend to Earth on this night to bathe in the sacred Ganges. Taking a dip in the Ganga on this day is believed to cleanse sins and bring blessings.
Maha Shivratri, meaning "the Great Night of Shiva," is a significant Hindu festival celebrated annually in reverence of Lord Shiva. Falling on the 14th day of the dark fortnight of the Hindu month of Phalguna (usually in February or March), it is considered the most potent of the twelve Shivratris that occur in a year. This night is believed to be particularly auspicious as it marks a powerful alignment of planetary energies, fostering spiritual growth and heightened consciousness
Holi, the vibrant Hindu "Festival of Colors", marks the end of winter and the triumph of good over evil. Celebrated with zest in March, the eve features Holika Dahan, a bonfire symbolizing evil's destruction. The next day, Rangwali Holi, involves playfully smearing loved ones with colors and enjoying sweets like gujiya. Varanasi uniquely celebrates Masan Holi with ashes from cremation grounds, connecting to Lord Shiva and the cycle of life and death
Ganga Mahotsav is an annual, five-day festival celebrated in Varanasi, dedicated to the sacred River Ganges and the city's rich cultural heritage. Held on the ghats of the Ganges, it attracts pilgrims and tourists from around the world. The festival typically begins on Prabodhini Ekadashi, the eleventh lunar day of the Hindu month of Kartik (around November), and culminates in Dev Deepawali. In 2025, the festival is tentatively scheduled for November 8th–12th