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Nav Devi (Navratri)

Festivals

Navaratri means nine nights, celebrated in the honor of Goddess Durga during nine nights and ten days. Nine forms of Devi Shakti are worshiped with puja and fasting by Hindus and also celebrated all over Nepal. The festival i celebrated for nine nights and each night dedicated to nine different forms of Shakti or Hindu deity maa Durga.Varanasi is the only place in India where all the 9 temples of 9 Devi Durga of Navaratri are located. Is worshipped on the very first day of Navratri and is the absolute form of Mother Nature. Shailaputri is the daughter of Himalaya and rides on mount Nandi bull. Shailputri Temple is located Marhia Ghat of Varanasi . Goddess Brahmacharini worshipped on the second day of Navratra and The goddess wears white clothes. Brahmacharini means who lives in an Ashrama and a female who pursues the sacred religious knowledge. This temple is located at Chaukhamba Area of Varanasi. The third aspect of Goddess Durga is Chandraghanta,means half-moon shaped like a bell. Chandraghanta also known as Chandika and goddess of bravery and courage.This temple is located at chowk Area of Varanasi. Kushmanda is the fourth form of the goddess Durga, worshiped on the fourth day of the Navratri festival. The temple is located at Durgakund area. The 5th day of Navratri is dedicated to Goddess Skandamata and she is the mother of war god Kartikeya. Skandamata Temple is also located at Jaitpura in Varanasi. Katyayini is the daughter of Katyayana and sixth form of goddess Parvati Shakti. Mother Goddess Kalratri worshipped on the seventh day of Navratri pooja and destroyer of all demon entities. Kaalratri is the goddess of night portion of each day and temple is located nearby Viswanath temple in Varanasi. Mahagauri worshipped on the eighth day of Navratri and the Goddess has the power to fulfill all the desires of her devotees. Goddess Mahagauri Devi Temple is situated in Varanasi.It is also located nearby Viswanath temple in Varanasi. Maa Siddhidatri is the ninth incarnations of Goddess Parvati and the last among the nine forms of Maa Shakti worshiped in Navaratri. Goddess Siddhidatri Mata Temples are situated atgolghar inVaranasi.

Deep Dive: Nav Devi (Navratri)

The Navratri festival in Varanasi is a nine-night tribute to the nine forms of Goddess Durga (Nav Durga). Each day is dedicated to a specific form of the goddess, and devotees visit the nine corresponding ancient temples across the city, such as Shailputri, Brahmacharini, and Kushmanda.

This "Yatra" or pilgrimage through the city’s lanes is a vital part of the religious life in Kashi. The city is alive with special prayers, music, and fasting, culminating in the celebration of Dussehra. It showcases the intricate network of divine feminine energy that protects the city.

Expert Insights for Your Visit

Varanasi is best explored with an open heart and a slow pace. The city reveals its secrets to those who stay long enough to observe the subtle shifts in the river's light and the rhythm of the daily rituals.

We recommend pairing your visit to Nav Devi (Navratri) with a quiet walk through the nearby ancient ghats or a sampling of the city's legendary culinary heritage.

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At Hospes India, we believe that travel should be transformative. From arranging priority darshan at the temples to booking luxury river cruises on the Ganges, we handle the logistics so you can focus on the experience. Let us help you discover the timeless magic of Varanasi, where every corner holds a piece of eternity.

Experience Nav Devi (Navratri) in Motion

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is it crowded during this festival?

Yes, festivals like Dev Deepawali and Mahashivratri attract millions. Plan your movement well in advance and be prepared for walking.

Do we need tickets?

Most religious festivals on the ghats are free. However, cultural seats or special boat views for events may require advance booking.

What is the best vantage point?

For riverfront festivals like Dev Deepawali, a mid-stream boat offers the most breathtaking 360-degree view of the illuminated ghats.

Is it safe for tourists?

Yes, but be wary of pickpockets in large crowds. It is best to travel with a recognized guide or in groups during peak festival hours.

Is travel on EMI available for festival packages?

Yes, we offer Travel on EMI for major festival tour packages in Varanasi.