Varanasi
Varanasi
- Varanasi, the holy "City of Light" shines bright, both physically and metaphorically. It is believed that a single dip in the holy waters of the Ganga can wash away a lifetime of sins.
- According to legend, Varanasi was founded by Shiva himself and was his favourite abode. In one verse of the ancient religious text Skanda Purana, Shiva says, "The three worlds form one city of mine, and Kāśī is my royal palace therein."
- In Varanasi, the most natural and inevitable cycle of life and death is celebrated and revered with much gusto. Also known as "Mahasmashana" or "The Great Cremation Ground", the holy city humbles you by making you realize how narrow the line is between life and death.
- A boat ride across the sacred Ganga perfectly captures the spirit of Varanasi. Countless candlelit paper boats with flowers carrying people’s prayers, float their way across the waters. Countless pilgrims take a holy dip in the waters, others meditate in solitude and the rest bow their heads in prayer along the Ghats. As the sun goes down, the evening ritual of worship, called the Ganga Arati, unfolds.
- Varanasi was the original hub of art, culture, spirituality and music. Many prominent Indian saints, philosophers, poets, writers, and musicians live or have lived in Varanasi. Several major figures of the Bhakti movement were born in Varanasi, including Kabir and Ravidas.
- Varanasi is home to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most important places of worship in the country. It is considered to be one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and holds great significance in the spiritual history of India.
- Near Varanasi is the 1500-year-old Mahabodhi Temple marking the spot of the legendary Bodhi tree, under which Buddha meditated and attained enlightenment. Buddha delivered his first sermon at Sarnath, near Varanasi, thereby giving birth to Buddhism.
Group | Arrive/Depart at Varanasi | Communication Language | Registration Status |
---|---|---|---|
C2* | 21st Sept to 25th Sept, 2019 |
English | CLOSED |
A2 / S2* | 22nd Sept to 25th Sept, 2019 |
English | CLOSED |
C1* | 20th Sept to 24th Sept, 2019 |
English | CLOSED |
A1 / S1* | 21st Sept to 24th Sept, 2019 |
English | CLOSED |
A2 / S2 | 22nd Sept to 25th Sept, 2018 |
English | CLOSED |
B | 19th Sept to 26th Sept, 2019 |
English | CLOSED |
- The given dates are to and from Varanasi, India.
- Registration closes on 15th October, 2017. However, if all places are filled, registration may close earlier.
- When you are ready to register, please submit the Application Form here here or feel free to contact us so we can further assist you with your registration.
- Applications are processed on a first-come-first-serve basis.
- We will send you a confirmation of your registration within two weeks of receiving your registration form and required documents.

Participants should have undergone an Isha Yoga program before taking part in Varanasi Sacred Walks. Since we will be travelling to powerful spaces of great possibility and energy, doing your Isha Yoga practices every day will help you become more receptive to the grace of these places.
Most of the sojourn involves bus travel, so it is advisable to pack as light as possible. Due to space constraints, all items must be packed in one suitcase or bag. Inside the bus, you can carry one trekking bag with items required for daily use. It is advisable to bring bags that are water-resistant and durable.
We recommend the following items:
- Personal clothing
- Woolen shawl or jacket
- Two to three pairs of socks
- A woolen cap
- Toiletries
- Hand sanitizer
- Mosquito repellent spray/cream
- General footwear
- Snacks
- Water bottle
- Sunglasses
- Flashlight
- Umbrella
- Camera (optional)
The temperature at Varanasi in November can vary between 10 to 30oC. Please bring appropriate woolens and warm clothing.
- Woolen shawl or jacket
- Two to three pairs of socks
- A woolen cap
*Please note that video cameras are not permitted.
Please carry a personal medical kit with electrolyte packs, pain killers, muscle relaxant cream, band aids, Vaseline, medicines for fever, common cold, headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, indigestion and any other medication necessary.
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Rest of India