🪔 Shravan in Varanasi: The Most Sacred Time to Visit Kashi Vishwanath
Shravan in Varanasi is not just a time—it’s a spiritual experience that transforms the entire city into a divine celebration of Lord Shiva. Every corner of Kashi vibrates with chants of “Har Har Mahadev,” as thousands of devotees gather for darshan, rituals, and holy dips in the Ganga.
There’s no better time to experience the spiritual soul of Varanasi than during the holy month of Shravan. As the bells ring and chants of “Har Har Mahadev” echo across the ghats, the entire city awakens with divine energy. Every corner of Kashi feels alive — with faith, devotion, and celebration.
This guide will help you plan your Shravan month travel to Varanasi, especially if you wish to visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most sacred shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Shravan 2025 Dates & Why It Matters
Start Date: 11 July 2025
End Date: 9 August 2025
Shravan Mondays (Somvars):
14 July
21 July
28 July
4 August
Shravan is considered the most auspicious month to worship Lord Shiva. According to Hindu mythology, this is the time when Lord Shiva consumed the poison (halahala) during the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan), saving the universe. Devotees observe fasts, offer water and milk to Shiva lingas, and seek blessings for peace, health, and happiness.
What Happens During Shravan in Varanasi?
The month of Shravan in Varanasi (July to August) is considered the holiest time to worship Lord Shiva. During this time:
The famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple opens early for special aartis and rudrabhishek pujas.
Kanwar Yatra takes place, where devotees carry Ganga water in decorated pots and walk barefoot to offer it to Shiva.
Daily Ganga Aarti becomes even more grand and energetic, with larger crowds and louder chants.
The ghats are filled with pilgrims taking dips and offering prayers.
The city becomes a hub of faith, devotion, and traditional rituals.
Top Things to Experience During Shravan in Varanasi
Varanasi, also called Kashi, is the spiritual capital of India and the heartland of Lord Shiva worship. During Shravan, the city witnesses:
Massive pilgrimages by Kanwar Yatris, who walk barefoot carrying holy Ganga water
Early morning aartis and bhajans at Assi Ghat
Magnificent Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat
Special temple decorations and daily rituals (abhishek, rudrabhishek, shringar of Shivling)
A divine atmosphere unlike any other time of year
The spiritual energy in Varanasi during Shravan is something you can feel in your heart — pure, intense, and unforgettable.
How to Reach Varanasi During Shravan
By Air:
Fly into Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS). It’s about 25 km from the city center. Pre-paid taxis and app-based cabs are available.
By Train:
Trains are the most popular and budget-friendly option. Book early as trains to Varanasi fill up fast during Shravan.
By Road:
You can drive or take intercity buses from major cities like Prayagraj, Patna, or Lucknow. Expect heavy traffic on Mondays and Kanwar procession days.
Travel Tip: Arrive a day before Shravan Monday to avoid delays and traffic congestion.
Kashi Vishwanath Temple – How to Visit During Shravan
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple sees huge crowds during Shravan, especially on Mondays. Here’s how to plan a peaceful darshan (visit):
| Option | Entry Time | Wait Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Entry | 4 AM – 11 PM | 1–2 hours | Free |
| Sugam Darshan | 6 AM – 8 PM | 15–30 mins | ₹300 |
| Rudrabhishek Puja | Fixed slots | 30–60 mins | ₹680–₹1500 |
Booking:
Visit the official website: shrikashivishwanath.org
Book darshan or puja slots online
Carry photo ID & booking receipt (soft copy allowed)
Pro Tip: Book the Mangala Aarti (4 AM) slot for a divine, peaceful experience with minimal crowd.
Rituals & Activities in Shravan
1. Kanwar Yatra Processions
During Shravan, thousands of kanwariyas carry Ganga water from Haridwar or nearby ghats and walk barefoot to offer it at Shiva temples. The streets of Varanasi are filled with saffron-clad pilgrims chanting “Bol Bam” with passion and devotion.
2. Ganga Aarti
The evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat becomes grander during Shravan. Priests perform synchronized rituals with fire lamps, conch shells, and incense as the river glows under the setting sun.
3. Abhishek and Rudrabhishek
Every day, especially Mondays, devotees perform jal abhishek — pouring water, milk, honey, and flowers on the Shivling. The temple also organizes special rudrabhishek pujas (chanting of Rudra Mantra).
What to Eat During Shravan in Varanasi
Since many people fast or avoid onion-garlic during Shravan, Varanasi offers plenty of satvik food that’s both pure and delicious.
Must-Try Foods:
Kachori Sabzi – Light, crispy, and served with potato curry
Sabudana Khichdi – Ideal for fasting days
Fruit Chaat – Seasonal fruits with rock salt and lemon
Lassi in Earthen Cups – Available at Pehelwan Lassi and Blue Lassi Shop
Malaiyo (only in winter but a local favorite)
Banarasi Paan – A sweet way to end your meals
Note: Many temples and ashrams serve free satvik meals (bhandara) during Shravan.
Where to Stay in Shravan
Due to high demand, book your accommodation at least 3–4 weeks in advance.
| Category | Hotel | Avg. Cost | Perks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget | Moustache Hostel, Assi Ghat | ₹800–₹1000 | Close to ghats & yoga spots |
| Mid-Range | Ganpati Guest House | ₹3000–₹4000 | River view, good food |
| Luxury | BrijRama Palace, Darbhanga Ghat | ₹8000+ | Royal experience, private ghat access |
3-Day Itinerary for Shravan Month in Varanasi
Day 1 – Spiritual Start
3:30 AM – Wake up, get ready
4:00 AM – Mangala Aarti at Kashi Vishwanath
7:00 AM – Breakfast (Kachori & Lassi)
10:00 AM – Visit Sarnath (Buddha’s first sermon site)
6:30 PM – Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat
Day 2 – Local Culture & Rituals
Morning yoga at Assi Ghat
Rudrabhishek puja at temple
Street shopping in Vishwanath Gali
Enjoy sabudana khichdi & sitar music at night café
Day 3 – Heritage & Food
Explore BHU Campus & Birla Mandir
Visit Silk Weaving Village at Sarai Mohana
Try fire paan and shop for Banarasi sarees
Final darshan at Kashi Vishwanath
Tips for First-Time Travelers
Wear comfortable cotton clothes, and cover shoulders/knees when visiting temples
Keep your footwear in designated racks near the ghats
Stay hydrated — Shravan is humid
Mobile phones are not allowed inside temple sanctum
Book puja slots and hotels in advance
Final Thoughts on Shravan in Varanasi
Shravan in Varanasi is not just a time — it’s an emotion. The city becomes a living prayer. If you’ve ever wanted to feel the divine presence of Lord Shiva, the chanting of thousands, and the soul of ancient India — Shravan month travel to Varanasi is your chance.
Whether you come for a quick darshan or a full spiritual retreat, Varanasi will leave an imprint on your soul. Because here, in the heart of Shravan, Shiva doesn’t just reside in temples — He walks among us.
Har Har Mahadev!