Hello travelers, Deepak is your travel partner!!!
Banaras, also known as Varanasi, is a city in Uttar Pradesh, India, that holds immense spiritual and cultural significance. If you are looking for a unique and enchanting travel experience, then visiting Banaras during Dev Diwali should be on your bucket list. Exploring bananas during Dev Diwali sounds like a fantastic idea! The Ganga ghats illuminated with diyas must be a breathtaking sight. Enjoy the spiritual atmosphere and the cultural richness of the city during this special celebration.
Route to Go:
To reach Banaras, I took a 30-hour train journey from Mumbai. Once I arrived at Varanasi station, it was easy to find a local auto rickshaw to take me to Godowlia Chowk. I chose to stay at the Mishra Guest House, which is conveniently located near Manikarnika Ghat, one of the most famous ghats in Banaras.
Places to visit:
- A trip to Banaras is incomplete without visiting certain iconic destinations. Firstly, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a must-visit for its spiritual significance.
- Another essential experience is witnessing the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat in the evening. Make sure to explore the narrow lanes of the old city and discover hidden gems and local life.
- Don’t forget to include Assi Ghat, Sarnath (known for its Buddhist significance), Ramnagar Fort, and Bharat Mata Temple in your itinerary to get a comprehensive Banaras experience.
- On the day of Dev Diwali, it is vital to reach the ghats before 4 p.m., as they become crowded with people participating in the diya-lit ceremony and tourists. Boating during Dev Diwali is a highlight, but it is recommended to book your boat at least 10–15 days in advance. Keep in mind that boat rides on this day usually cost around 2500–3000 rupees.
A hidden gem in Banaras:
Apart from the popular tourist spots, Banaras offers some offbeat attractions. Consider visiting the Man Karneshwar Temple near Manikarnika Ghat, the Sarnath, with its Buddhist significance, and exploring the narrow alleys of the old city to discover hidden gems and local life. The Ramnagar Fort, Alamgir Mosque, Lal Khan Tomb, and Chunar Fort are also intriguing historical spots worth checking out.
Must-visit restaurants in Banaras:
- Kashi Chat Bhandar, Dina Chat Bhandar, and Lavkush restaurant for dinner.
- Bhang from Badal Thandai shop near Godowlia Chowk.
When is the best time to visit Banaras?
Winter (November to February) is the ideal season to visit Varanasi because of the low temperatures and steady breezes all day long. In Varanasi, summertime brings high, dry temperatures. Summers are best avoided as they are hot, dry, and sunny, making it impossible to go sightseeing outside.
Necessary things to pack:
- Remember to pack comfortable clothing, especially for temple visits and navigating the narrow streets of Banaras.
- Carry sunscreen, a cap, and a reusable water bottle for daytime excursions.
- . A camera is essential to capture the vibrant scenes, and comfortable walking shoes are a must.
- Since Banaras is a religious city, it is advisable to dress modestly during religious ceremonies.
- Don’t forget any personal essentials or medications.
Travel tips:
- If possible, plan your trip around festivals like Dev Diwali to experience the city’s vibrant and unique celebrations.
- Respect the diverse cultural traditions and lifestyles of the locals. Always seek permission before taking photographs of people, especially during religious ceremonies.
- Don’t miss out on trying the local Banarasi cuisine, including the famous paan and regional sweets.
- Be prepared to remove your shoes at many religious places, so wearing slip-on shoes will be convenient.
- If you are a photographer, take extra care of your equipment and yourself.
An exciting trip to Banaras! Spiritual ghats, Ganga Aarti, temples—a profound experience. Vibrant local life and rich history in narrow lanes. Unique charm, delicious Banarasi cuisine, and warm hospitality. See you in November for Dev Diwali at the Ghats. Expenses: $14-16k for 5 days, 4 nights. Boating costs 150 per person. Banaras is the only place where I visit 2-3 times a year.
So, pack your bags and get ready for a remarkable journey this Dev Diwali in Banaras.
For such more spiritual travel tales do visit https://sowl.in/stories.
Happy Exploring!!!
