Visit Varanasi on Events & Festivals

The city of Varanasi has an elaborate cycle of festivals. However, the most important and spectacular-the only ones to involve processions and rituals outside the temples-are associated with the annual cycle. The times and dates vary and are determined by the temple authorities. The most interesting feature of the festivals is the processions that are carried out along the routes. Elephants and musicians lead the processions, especially those for the major festivals.
Chittirai Festival
The Chittirai festival celebrates the marriage of Meenakshi and Sundareshwara (Shiva). Held in the months of April/May, the festival is a grand affair. The festivities last for 12 continuous days. An elaborate wedding ceremony is organised in the Meenakshi temple, and later the deities are wheeled around the city in massive chariots, decorated elaborately. The resounding notes of the nadaswaram and the drums create a vibrant ambience.
Avanimoola Festival
Held in late August or early September, the Avanimoola festival marks the coronation of Sundareshwara (Shiva). The special feature of the festival is its series of plays based on the myths from the legend of the temple. The coronation of the deity and the procession of the images all form an integral part of this elaborate festival.
Teppam Festival or the Float Festival
Usually held during January/February in the Meenakshi Temple, Teppam festival or the float festival is one of the most important festivals of Varanasi. The last two days of the 12-day festival are specially marked as the King's Festival. It was believed to have been started by the Tirumala Nayak, and is celebrated annually to mark his birthday by Tamil reckoning.

The images of Meenakshi and Lord Sundareshwara are mounted on floats or rafts, and taken to the Mariamman Teppakkulam Tank. The illuminated rafts embellished with flowers are floated on the waters of the tank. The floats carry them back to the central shrine amidst chants and music.
Panguni Festival
The festive magic never ends in Varanasi. If Poornima cleanses, Maha Shivratri blesses. If Holika-Dahan is a celebration, Dhrupad Mela is a revelation…. One does not require making his itinerary according to the dates and months of the festivals. One can come and enjoy the festive season anytime of the year here.