It is a unique feeling to see the river lit up by rows of lamps in front of your eyes. More than eighty ghats are lit by millions of lamps, accompanied by conch sounds and aarti on the banks of the Ganges. If you don't see such a wonderful scene, life is in vain! The ghats of Kashi will be decorated with more than eleven lakh clay lamps on November 24. Green bet from laser show—what is there in this festival of light!
According to Hindu mythology, on this auspicious day of Kartika Purnima, the gods themselves descend from heaven to take a bath in the Ganges of Varanasi. Apart from that Mahadeva killed the demon Tripurasura on this day. Hence it is called Tripurari Purnima. Celebrated exactly 15 days after Diwali, the city of Vishwanath is illuminated with magical light. However, the return of Ramachandra to Ayodhya and this festival are not the same. This should be kept in mind. It is a completely different devotional celebration, bearing the living signature of India's long cultural heritage.
There are some important things to keep in mind before going to Shiva Nagar. Take a look at the 5 things you must keep in mind when visiting Varanasi for the first time-
1. Book in advance
On festival days, there is no place to keep sesame on both sides of the ghat. Book hotels or homestays in advance to avoid last minute hassles. And if you want to see the glittering city in the light of lamps from the Ganga, book a boat online.
2. Get out with some time on your hands
Tourists and photographers come from far and wide. If you want to enjoy the light of the ghat in the evening when the crowd is over, arrive before sunset. If you are late, it will be difficult to get the desired place.
3. What will you see at the port?
All Ghats are not the same! The grand conch sounds and rhythmic aarti of Dashashwamedh Ghat will enthrall the first time visitors. If you want to see the illumination in a quiet environment, you can choose Ausi Ghat. And for those who love to capture every moment, Rajendra Prasad Ghat is perfect.
4. It is wise to arrive a day early
Proper planning is essential to handle the festival crowd. It is better to reach the city at least a day or two before the festival. As the rush will reduce, you can enjoy the true mood of Varanasi with a calm mind.
5. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes.
You have to walk continuously in the ghat area. So think about comfort before fashion. Wear comfortable clothing and suitable walking shoes.
What else will you see when you come to Varanasi?
Just walking around the ghats is not the last thing. If you have time, don't forget to try local food like lassi, kachuri! You can visit ancient temples like Sarnath, Ayodhya or Trilochan Mahadev and Kedareshwar. With proper planning this Dev Diwali trip will become the best experience of your life.