Kashi, Benaras, Varanasi. This city with three names is among the oldest living cities in the world. Varanasi was the township that grew along the bank of the holy river Ganges, in the stretch between its two tributaries, the Varuna and Assi. Called Kashi in the scriptures and widely known as Benaras, the city officially renamed Varanasi after India gained independence. Varanasi is also known as the cultural capital of India. A popular saying for Varanasi goes like “Saat Vaar- Terah Tyohar" which means "7 days- 13 festivals". The festivity-season begins in October and lasts upto March, so as goes the tourist-season as well.
Almost every tourist, domestic & foreign both necessarily visit the necklace shaped Ghaats (River Fronts) of Varanasi stretched in a length of about 7 Kms. As Varanasi is widely known as the cultural Capital of India, Ganga Mahotsav is organized every year by Mahotsav Samiti, Varanasi on the holy bank of Ganga to showcase & promote Cultural Tourism. It also offers one of the most comprehensive window to the world of Handicrafts.

This illuminating moment on the closing day of Ganga Mahotsav may rightly be called as pinnacle of the event. Millions of earthen Lamps (Diyas) not only floating on the holy water but also incense the beauty of the all 84 Ghats of river Ganga. Aroma of mesmerizing incense and the sacred chants make you believe that you are in heaven, witnessing a celestial happening.