Stepping into the city of Varanasi is like breathing into the poem written by the city with culture, devotion, and peace. Maha Shivratri, one of the most important festivals in Hinduism, has a big fan base in Varanasi city. Every year devotees from India and worldwide flock to the city to celebrate this festival carrying love for Lord Shiva. Maha Shivratri in Varanasi is a festival to witness once in a lifetime.
The Maha Shivratri in Varanasi generally falls on the 13th or 14th day of the Hindu month of Phalgun (February – March). In 2025 Maha Shivratri is going to be celebrated on 26th of Feb, 2025.
Let’s look into the essence of the festival and the growing demand of sacred stays in Varanasi during the peak tourist season.
The essence of Maha Shivratri in Varanasi: 5 reasons to visit
Maha Shivratri in Varanasi is the most awaited festival, reason being it is believed as the abode of Lord Shiva according to Hindu Mythology. The sight at the holy river Ganges is like a celebration with decorated establishments on the sacred ghats, with devotees waiting to take the holy dip during the festival.
Temple visits
Varanasi being one of the seven sacred cities of Hinduism, is famous for its temples. Devotees come here to witness the holy River Ganges Aarti, visit temples of historical importance, and witness the celebration of life and mourning of death at the sacred ghats. Visiting the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple is a beautiful experience in itself. You can breathe in the air of devotion, culture and peaceful surroundings, leaving a calming impression on you.
Sacred stays in Varanasi
Varanasi is famous for its sacred ghats; it is home to more than 80 ghats. If you are looking to experience the beauty of ghats, you should book your sacred stays in Varanasi, that offer you a glimpse of the ghat life from your room. Imagine waking up to the ripples of water, Ganga Aarti and temple sounds, sounds just Varanasi things! Make sure you book your sacred stays in Varanasi well in advance during Maha Shivratri festival time.
Special Pujas, Night Vigil and Jagran
Maha Shivaratri translates to pujas and abhisheka ceremonies at Shiva temples throughout the day. By offering sacred things to the Shivlinga, Shivbhakts pray with devotion to their beloved Shiva. One of the most important aspect of the festival is the night long vigil i.e. Jagran devotees gather at the temples to sing Shiva chants and praises throughout the night.
Witness Shiv Baraat
One of the most iconic processions that brings the entire city together to reenact the wedding of Shiva and Parvati. It starts at Tilbhandeshwar temple in morning and ends at Gauri Kedareshwar temple; the evening procession from Mrityunjay Mahadev Temple and concludes at Godaulia. Hundreds of saffron-clad sadhus and Naga saints participate in this procession.
Another big event Panchkroshi Yatra is also performed in which hundreds of devotees walk for almost 80 kilometers barefoot.
Sacred Ghats
Varanasi is a city where every step resonates with history and spirituality. At the vibrant Dashashwamedh Ghat, witnessing the Ganga Aarti at dusk can be an overwhelming, soul-stirring experience. On the other hand, the Manikarnika Ghat, where the sacred rituals of cremation unfold, shows the unbroken cycle of life and death that defines the essence of this ancient city. A truly mesmerizing experience one cannot miss during the festival of Maha Shivratri in Varanasi.
Accommodation at the sacred stays in Varanasi: A checklist
If you are planning to celebrate Maha Shivratri in Varanasi, you need to book the accommodation well in advance. Many hotels offer sacred stays in Varanasi, in and around the ghat area. Booking well in advance can save you from heavy seasonal prices and the last minute chaos. Also some ashrams provide free stays, depending on the availability. Varanasi offers a range of accommodations, right from luxury hotels to backpackers hostels. Varanasi hospitality during festivals is a different scenario. Choose a stay that is in close proximity to the Ganges for early morning rituals, that can fit in your travel budget, and that offers cultural experience from the surroundings.
Get to know the cultural and spiritual experiences of Varanasi hospitality during festivals
Varanasi hospitality during festivals is a heartwarming experience and a perfect mix of tradition and openness. The city welcomes devotees with open arms offering a chance to partake in rituals, prayers, and celebrations. What makes this unforgettable experience is the love, warmth, celebratory spirit, and the serene view of the river Ganges from the ghats.