Festivals of Banaras

Dev Diwali

The Diwali of Gods - Most Spectacular Festival

Celebrated 15 days after Diwali (Kartik Purnima). All 88 ghats are illuminated with over a million diyas. A breathtaking sight as gods descend to earth.

Time: November (Kartik Purnima)

Highlight: Million diyas on ghats, special Ganga Aarti

Mahashivratri

The Great Night of Shiva

The most important festival in Kashi. Millions of devotees throng to Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Night-long prayers and celebrations.

Time: February-March (Phalguna)

Highlight: All-night vigil, special darshan, holy dip

Holi - Festival of Colors

Vibrant Celebrations Throughout City

Banaras celebrates Holi with unique fervor. Street processions, music, dance, and colors everywhere. Special Holi at temples.

Time: March (Phalguna Purnima)

Special: Masan Ki Holi (at cremation ghat)

Ganga Mahotsav

Five-Day Cultural Extravaganza

Annual cultural festival celebrating Ganga and Banaras heritage. Classical music, dance performances, boat races, and cultural programs.

Time: November (5 days)

Activities: Music, dance, sports, art exhibitions

Nag Nathaiya

Symbolizing the victory of good over evil

The festival, also known as Lakkha Mela, takes place annually at Tulsi Ghat on the banks of the Ganges River.

Time: November and December

Location: Tulsi Ghat, Varanasi

Annakut (Govardhan Puja)

Mountain of Food Offering

Day after Diwali. Temples prepare elaborate food offerings. Hundreds of dishes offered to deities and distributed as prasad.

Time: October-November (day after Diwali)

Best at: Annapurna Temple, Vishwanath Temple