Monday, August 25, 2025

Top Places to Visit in Kashi varanasi

 

Top Places to Visit in Kashi

Varanasi, also known as Kashi, is one of the oldest cities in the world and a major spiritual hub in India. The city is home to numerous temples, ghats, and cultural landmarks that attract visitors from around the globe. Here's a list of the top places to visit in Kashi for a truly enriching experience:


1. Kashi Vishwanath Temple

  • Why Visit: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and holds immense religious significance.
  • Highlights: The temple's golden spire and spiritual aura are captivating.
  • Timing: 4:00 AM to 11:00 PM.

2. Dashashwamedh Ghat

  • Why Visit: The most vibrant and significant ghat, known for its evening Ganga Aarti.
  • Highlights: Witness the grandeur of the Aarti ceremony, accompanied by hymns, bells, and diyas floating on the Ganges.
  • Timing: Evening hours for the Ganga Aarti, typically after 6:00 PM.

3. Assi Ghat

  • Why Visit: A serene and less crowded ghat, popular for Subah-e-Banaras (morning rituals).
  • Highlights: Enjoy yoga sessions, classical music, and a peaceful boat ride during sunrise.

4. Sarnath

  • Why Visit: The site where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment.
  • Highlights: Explore the Dhamek Stupa, Chaukhandi Stupa, and the Sarnath Archaeological Museum.
  • Timing: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

5. Manikarnika Ghat

  • Why Visit: Known as the cremation ghat, this place is believed to liberate souls from the cycle of rebirth.
  • Highlights: A deeply spiritual and reflective experience, showcasing the cycle of life and death.

6. Bharat Mata Temple

  • Why Visit: A unique temple dedicated to Mother India with a relief map of the Indian subcontinent.
  • Highlights: Admire the detailed map carved out of marble.
  • Timing: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

7. Banaras Hindu University (BHU)

  • Why Visit: One of the most prestigious universities in India, known for its lush campus and cultural importance.
  • Highlights: Visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum and the New Vishwanath Temple.

8. Tulsi Manas Temple

  • Why Visit: Dedicated to Lord Rama, this temple marks the place where Tulsidas wrote the Ramcharitmanas.
  • Highlights: The walls are adorned with verses from the Ramayana.
  • Timing: 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

9. Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple

  • Why Visit: Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, this temple is believed to fulfill devotees' wishes.
  • Highlights: The chanting of the Hanuman Chalisa and the temple’s serene ambiance.

10. Ganga Boat Ride

  • Why Visit: A boat ride on the Ganges offers breathtaking views of the ghats and temples.
  • Highlights: Best experienced at sunrise or during the Ganga Aarti.

11. Shri Durga Temple (Durga Kund)

  • Why Visit: A beautiful temple dedicated to Goddess Durga, known for its vibrant red color.
  • Highlights: The nearby pond (kund) adds to the temple's charm.
  • Timing: 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

12. Alamgir Mosque (Beni Madhav Ka Darera)

  • Why Visit: A blend of Hindu and Islamic architecture, overlooking the Ganges.
  • Highlights: Its unique design and picturesque location.

13. Nepali Temple (Kathwala Temple)

  • Why Visit: Built in the Nepalese architectural style, this wooden temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
  • Highlights: The intricate woodwork and serene surroundings.

14. Ramnagar Fort

  • Why Visit: A historic fort that served as the residence of the Kashi Naresh (king of Varanasi).
  • Highlights: Explore the museum showcasing vintage cars, weapons, and royal artifacts.
  • Timing: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

15. Shri Annapurna Temple

  • Why Visit: Dedicated to Goddess Annapurna, the goddess of food and nourishment.
  • Highlights: Known for its grand architecture and spiritual significance.
  • Timing: 4:00 AM to 11:00 PM.

Plan Your Trip to Kashi

For a comprehensive and well-organized trip, visit Namokashi and explore customized packages that cover these top destinations. Make the most of your visit to Kashi and immerse yourself in its spiritual and cultural legacy.

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Saturday, August 23, 2025

Dev Diwali In Varanasi 2025

 

Dev Diwali In Varanasi 2025

Dev Diwali or Dev Deepawali is a Hindu festival observed in the Hindu month of ‘Kartik’, celebrated with great pomp and show in the Indian city of Varanasi, in Uttar Pradesh. Dev Diwali is the ‘Festival of Lights of the Gods’ and falls on the Kartik Purnima (full moon day), fifteen days after the celebrations of Diwali. It corresponds to the month of November-December in the Gregorian calendar.

This religious ceremony is started by chanting of the holy Vedic mantras by the priests, lighting diyas at the ghats and the sparkling of fire crackers, to welcome and please the Gods and Goddesses.

Dev Diwali 2025 is on November 5

On the occasion of Dev Diwali, all the ghats of River Ganga is lighted with thousands of diyas and crowded with pilgrims. This utsav is celebrated every year in the holy city of Varanasi. The festivities can also be witnessed in Gujarat and other northern states of India. In the Indian state of Maharashtra, Dev Diwali is observed on the first day of the month of ‘Margashirsh’. Dev Diwali is commemorated to honour the victory of Lord Shiva over the demon named ‘Tripurasur’. For this reason, this festival is also known as ‘Tripurotsav’. The festival of Dev Diwali coincides with Guru Nanak Jayanti and Jain light festival.

Rituals of Dev Diwali:

The main ritual of Dev Diwali is the lighting of diyas after seeing the moon. The steps of every ghats of River Ganga, right from southernmost Ravidas Ghat to Rajghat, are illuminated with millions of diyas lit in honour of Goddess Ganga and other presiding devas.

The devotees get up early on the day of Dev Diwali and perform the ‘Kartik snan’, that is a ritual of taking a dip in the holy Ganges). They perform ‘deepdan’ (offering oil lamps) in the honour of Goddess Ganga. Following this ‘Ganga aarti’ is performed by 24 Brahmin Priests along with 24 girls, with full devotion.

On this occasion of Dev Diwali, people decorate their houses with oil lamps. Colourful designs or rangoli are made on the front doors. In several houses in Varanasi, ‘Akhand Ramayana’ is organized along with offering bhogs.

In the evening, on the streets of Varanasi, huge processions of beautifully decorated deities are taken out with full enthusiasm. The night sky is lit up with the lights of the firecrackers. After the event, dance performances and cultural programmes by famous personalities of Varanasi also takes place.


 

Tour Cost

Tour Cost On Request

Itinerary

Day 1 : Arrival at Varanasi– Sarnath Tour

On your arrival at Varanasi airport/ railway station meet our representative and transfer to hotel, on arrival at hotel proceed with check in formalities, after some rest meet your driver at the hotel lobby and proceed to Sarnath, 10km from Varanasi, where the Buddha preached his first sermon in the Deer Park, contains the most impressive remains, as well as a modem temple. The Dharmarajika, Chaukhandi and Dhamek stupas are outstanding. There are also the remains of a monastery, and the beautifully polished Lion Capital of Ashoka. Overnight stay at hotel in Varanasi .

Day 2 : Varanasi Local Sightseeing – Dev Diwali

Early morning visit Assi Ghat for Subah-e-Banaras and enjoy sunrise on boat. Later proceed on a half day temple city tour of Varanasi visiting, Durga Temple, Tulsi Manas Temple, Sankat Mochan Temple, Banaras Hindu University, Baba Kinaram Sthal. Banaras Hindu University. BHU is the largest residential universities in Asia, with over 35,000 students. Where to see New Kashi Vishwanath Temple . In evening visit Ghat for boat ride followed by Ganga Aarti at Dasaswamedh Ghat and you also enjoy Dev-Diwali festival. Overnight stay at hotel in Varanasi.

Day 3 : Varanasi – Departure

After breakfast, check out from the hotel. Then drop you at Varanasi Airport for Homeward Journey.

Top Places to Visit in Kashi

 

Top Places to Visit in Kashi

Varanasi, also known as Kashi, is one of the oldest cities in the world and a major spiritual hub in India. The city is home to numerous temples, ghats, and cultural landmarks that attract visitors from around the globe. Here's a list of the top places to visit in Kashi for a truly enriching experience:


1. Kashi Vishwanath Temple

  • Why Visit: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and holds immense religious significance.
  • Highlights: The temple's golden spire and spiritual aura are captivating.
  • Timing: 4:00 AM to 11:00 PM.

2. Dashashwamedh Ghat

  • Why Visit: The most vibrant and significant ghat, known for its evening Ganga Aarti.
  • Highlights: Witness the grandeur of the Aarti ceremony, accompanied by hymns, bells, and diyas floating on the Ganges.
  • Timing: Evening hours for the Ganga Aarti, typically after 6:00 PM.

3. Assi Ghat

  • Why Visit: A serene and less crowded ghat, popular for Subah-e-Banaras (morning rituals).
  • Highlights: Enjoy yoga sessions, classical music, and a peaceful boat ride during sunrise.

4. Sarnath

  • Why Visit: The site where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment.
  • Highlights: Explore the Dhamek Stupa, Chaukhandi Stupa, and the Sarnath Archaeological Museum.
  • Timing: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

5. Manikarnika Ghat

  • Why Visit: Known as the cremation ghat, this place is believed to liberate souls from the cycle of rebirth.
  • Highlights: A deeply spiritual and reflective experience, showcasing the cycle of life and death.

6. Bharat Mata Temple

  • Why Visit: A unique temple dedicated to Mother India with a relief map of the Indian subcontinent.
  • Highlights: Admire the detailed map carved out of marble.
  • Timing: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

7. Banaras Hindu University (BHU)

  • Why Visit: One of the most prestigious universities in India, known for its lush campus and cultural importance.
  • Highlights: Visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum and the New Vishwanath Temple.

8. Tulsi Manas Temple

  • Why Visit: Dedicated to Lord Rama, this temple marks the place where Tulsidas wrote the Ramcharitmanas.
  • Highlights: The walls are adorned with verses from the Ramayana.
  • Timing: 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

9. Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple

  • Why Visit: Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, this temple is believed to fulfill devotees' wishes.
  • Highlights: The chanting of the Hanuman Chalisa and the temple’s serene ambiance.

10. Ganga Boat Ride

  • Why Visit: A boat ride on the Ganges offers breathtaking views of the ghats and temples.
  • Highlights: Best experienced at sunrise or during the Ganga Aarti.

11. Shri Durga Temple (Durga Kund)

  • Why Visit: A beautiful temple dedicated to Goddess Durga, known for its vibrant red color.
  • Highlights: The nearby pond (kund) adds to the temple's charm.
  • Timing: 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

12. Alamgir Mosque (Beni Madhav Ka Darera)

  • Why Visit: A blend of Hindu and Islamic architecture, overlooking the Ganges.
  • Highlights: Its unique design and picturesque location.

13. Nepali Temple (Kathwala Temple)

  • Why Visit: Built in the Nepalese architectural style, this wooden temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
  • Highlights: The intricate woodwork and serene surroundings.

14. Ramnagar Fort

  • Why Visit: A historic fort that served as the residence of the Kashi Naresh (king of Varanasi).
  • Highlights: Explore the museum showcasing vintage cars, weapons, and royal artifacts.
  • Timing: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

15. Shri Annapurna Temple

  • Why Visit: Dedicated to Goddess Annapurna, the goddess of food and nourishment.
  • Highlights: Known for its grand architecture and spiritual significance.
  • Timing: 4:00 AM to 11:00 PM.

Plan Your Trip to Kashi

For a comprehensive and well-organized trip, visit Namokashi and explore customized packages that cover these top destinations. Make the most of your visit to Kashi and immerse yourself in its spiritual and cultural legacy.


 

 

Tourist Guide in Varanasi (Kashi)

 

Special cost for tourist guide in Varanasi and nearby tourist places


1 - 5 Pax 6 - 14 Pax 15 – 35 Pax
Half Day 1600 2000 2650
Full Day 2000 2600 3450

Note – Above cost is for English/Hindi/Bhojpuri speaking registered guide only

Other allowance-

Morning/Evening Allowance – INR 100/-

Language Charge- All foreign language other than mentioned above
Half day – INR 350/-
Full day – INR 550/-

Cost per sightseeing basis in Varanasi (Ganga Arti/Morning Boat Ride/Temple Tour/Sarnath) will be charge as per half day cost mention above(for each sightseeing).

Cost of Tourist Guide while travelling outside the Varanasi –
2000/- INR per day for English/Hindi/Bhojpuri speaking registered tourist guide
3000/- INR per day for language speaking registered tourist guide.

Cost of Tourist Guide while travelling outside the Varanasi –
2000/- INR per day for English/Hindi/Bhojpuri speaking registered tourist guide
3000/- INR per day for language speaking registered tourist guide.

Note -

  • All Guides approved from DOT (Department of Tourism)
  • Guide charges only for Sightseeing purpose only.
  • Guide tips will be extra as per wish.
  • More than 35 pax group will require more than 1 guide.

Language speaking Guide means – French/ German/ Italy/ Spanish/ Japanese/ Chinese/ Tamil/ Telgu and many more i.e. other than English/ Hindi/ Bhojpuri

 

What is a Tourist Guide?

A tourist guide is one who normally possesses an area-specific qualification usually issued and/or recognized by the appropriate authority and a person who guides visitors in the language of their choice and beautifully interprets the cultural and natural heritage of an area.

In this job excellent communication skills is needed by a guide and if you're good at public speaking, and are interested in history and the arts, this could be the ideal job for you. For facts, figures and events you will need to have a good memory

Though any specific entry requirements is not there to get into this work, but many employers would ask for GCSE passes, particularly in English and Math. To develop the skills you would need there are courses available in tourist guiding that could help you.

Guided tours could include :-

  • Tours for special interest groups
  • sightseeing tours
  • Themed walks.

Tour Manager / Tour Director :-
One who on behalf of the tour operator manages and supervises the itinerary, ensuring the program is carried out as described in the tour operator’s literature and sold to the traveler/consumer and who gives local practical information.

Tour escort :-
One who is acting as the representative of a tour operator providing basic assistance to the travelers.

Note :- unless the tour managers have the proper requirements or legal right depending on the region, they are not trained or licensed to work in specific areas and also tour managers may or may not be tourist guides as well.

What is a Guided Tour?
An area, conducted by a tourist guide or tour of a specified length covering cited elements of the cultural or natural heritage of a city is the guided tour.

Who is a guide?
A person who leads travelers or tourists through unknown or unfamiliar locations is what a guide is. He is a person who leads others to more abstract goals such as knowledge or wisdom

Explorers in the past habitually hired guides venturing into territory unknown by their own people. If you need any information about the attractions' natural and cultural significance of a particular place then there are tour guides who lead visitors through tourist attractions and give all the necessary information’s as required. Travelers who do not speak the local language for them these guides often act as interpreters. For human tour guides automated systems like audio tours are sometimes substituted. To lead tourist groups tour operators often hire guides.

Plan Your Trip

Ready to explore the wonders of Varanasi? Let Namokashi be your guide. Browse our tour packages, customize your itinerary, and book your unforgettable journey today.


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