Festivals in India
There are many religious and cultural festivals in India, presenting a fantastic opportunity for photographers and travellers alike.
I have worked at nearly all of the festivals around Varanasi. Please get in touch with me if you would like me to discuss a tour, a photography tour, guiding or fixing related to these festivals.
To see a comprehensive updated list of festivals, see the Incredible India website (here).
Wikipedia also has a list of Hindu festivals (click here).
I can work with you on any of these festivals.
Below is a selection of festivals in and around Varanasi (2024/25).
Location: Varanasi
Dates: October, November, and December 2024
These festivals not only showcase the rich culture of Varanasi but also provide unique opportunities for stunning imagery.
1. Durga Puja (October): The elaborate decorations, traditional attire, and festive atmosphere provide great photo opportunities.
2. Diwali (November 11th, 2024): The city is illuminated with lights and diyas (candles), creating stunning visuals, especially along the Ganges.
3. Ganga Mahotsav (November 14th-18th, 2024): Cultural performances, rituals, and the lively setting along the river offer fantastic photographic opportunities.
4. Kartik Purnima (November 24th, 2024): The rituals performed at the ghats, combined with the early morning fog, create a magical setting.
5. Dev Deepawali (November 27th, 2024): The sight of thousands of diyas floating on the river at night is breathtaking and ideal for photography.
Location: Varanasi
Dates: October November 1st-4th 2024, March 14th 2025
Festival: Chhath
Chhath Puja is another significant festival in Varanasi, celebrated in March or November (in 2024, it falls on November 1st-4th). This festival honours the Sun God and involves elaborate rituals, especially the evening and morning offerings at the riverbank.
Vibrant Rituals: Capturing the colourful traditional attire of devotees.
Scenic Ghat Views: The ghats are beautifully decorated, providing stunning backdrops.
Sunrise and Sunset: The ceremonies during these times create dramatic lighting for photography.
Community Spirit: The large gatherings and collective celebrations offer a sense of community and devotion.
Overall, Chhath Puja is an excellent opportunity for capturing the cultural richness and spiritual ambiance of Varanasi.
Location: Varanasi
Dates: January and February 2025
Festival: Kumbh Mela
The Kumbh Mela in 2025 will feature several significant bathing dates, known as "Shahi Snan." Here are the key dates:
1. Makar Sankranti: January 14th 2025
2. Mauni Amavasya: January 24th 2025 (the most auspicious day)
3. Basant Panchami: February 4th 2025
4. Magh Purnima: February 10th 2025
5. Maha Shivratri: February 13th 2025
These dates are especially important for rituals and large gatherings, making them ideal for photography and capturing the essence of the festival.
Location: Varanasi
Dates: January and February 2025
Festival: Mahakumbh Mela
This is a very big celebration in 2025 from January to February near Varanasi, in a city called Prayagraj (Allahabad), about 125 km away from Varanasi.
It is at this Mahakumbh Mela where all the holy gatherings come together.
Location: Varanasi
Dates: March 2025
Festival: Vrindavan holi
Holi event dates on based on Hindu calendar.
7th March 2025 - Laddoo Holi in Sriji Temple - Barsana village, Mathura
8th March 2025 - Lathmar Holi - Barsana village, Mathura
9th March 2025 - Nandgaon Gaon Holi - Lathmar Holi - Nandgaon village, Mathura
10th March 2025 - Phoolwalon Ki Holi Bankey Bihari Temple, Vrindavan
10th March 2025 - Special program at Shri Krishna Janambhumi Temple
11th March 2025 - Gokul Holi, Chhadi Mar Holi (little stick holi)
12th March 2025 - Widows Holi, Gopinath Temple Vrindavan
13th March 2025 - Dwarkadhish Temple, Mathura. Holika Dahan/Holi Fire
14th March 2025 - Colorful Water Holi in Vrindavan and Mathura
15th March 2025 - Huranga Holi - Dauji Temple, Baldeo (starts around 10pm)