Are you planning a trip to Varanasi to explore Masan Holi? This festival celebrates death – one of the most avoided topics in society. For thousands of years, devotees have celebrated this event with great pomp and show in two of the greatest cremation grounds in the world – Harishchandra Ghat and Manikarnika Ghat in Varanasi, where the fire never rests. This guide will help you plan your Kashi Yatra perfectly by getting you through everything you need to know for your comfortable trip to Masan Holi in Varanasi.
Get comfortable local, outstation and airport taxi with Chiku Cab today and witness this unique festival of using the ‘Chita Bhasm’ or the Ashes of the deceased being used to play Holi, the festival of colours.
What should you expect from this Varanasi travel guide?
I have carefully created this guide explaining Masan Holi clearly:
- What is Masan Holi?
- Why is it played at two of the most popular cremation grounds in the world?
- The expected Masan Holi 2026 date window
- What actually happens at Manikarnika Ghat and Harishchandra Ghat
- Aghori involvement — truth vs exaggeration
- Is Masan Holi safe for tourists
- How to reach and plan your Masane Ki Holi trip properly
- What not to do during Masan Holi
- How to attend Masan Holi in Varanasi’s Cremation Ghats responsibly
- Without any distortion or social media drama for reach
What is Masan Holi in Varanasi?
Masan Holi (also called Smashan Holi or Bhasma Holi) is a Holi for Lord Shiva and his devotees, which is observed on the Harishchandra Ghat and Manikarnika Ghat in Varanasi, one after the other, on two days. Instead of vibrant colored powder, ash (bhasma) is symbolically applied by sadhus and devotees.
While the types of Holi in Varanasi include:
- Temple Holi
- Ghat Holi
- There are colours all over the streets of Kashi
Masan Holi is a unique form of Holi festival, which is played at the cremation ground of Manikarnika Ghat, where ash replaces gulaal, and Lord Shiva is invoked not as a festive deity, but as Mahakaal — the lord beyond life and death.
It is deep-rooted in:
- Shaivaite philosophy
- Lord Shiva’s association with cremation grounds
- The concept of impermanence
- Detachment from material identity
Unlike street Holi, Masan Holi unfolds at an active cremation site – Funeral rites continue, and the pyres keep burning amidst regular chanting and noise from the participants of the Masan Holi. In this unique form of Holi, ash is applied symbolically, showing how life and death coexist in the same frame in Kashi.
That is the essence of Masan Holi at Harishchandra and Manikarnika Ghats. You may leave Maha Shamshan, but a silent mantra, “Om Namah Shivaya”, might get embedded within you.
Important Note:
This event could be quite overwhelming for many due to heavy crowding, especially for patients, pregnant ladies, female travellers, children and senior citizens, and therefore, they are advised to be careful/avoid Masan Holi.
Masan Holi 2026: Official Date, Timing and Venue
Here is the complete guide to Masaan Holi celebrations in Kashi this year.
For 2026:
- Peak Activity Time: Approximately 10:00 AM (in the morning) to sunset
- Expected Dates:
- February 27, 2026, on Harishchandra Ghat
- February 28, 2026, on Manikarnika Ghat
(From local sources, and according to the Hindu lunar calendar)
Yet to be confirmed by the official sources.
Important: Confirm final timing 3 to 5 days before travel, as administration may regulate access depending on crowd density.
Why Is Masan Holi Played at Manikarnika Ghat/Harishchandra Ghat?
Om Namah Parvati Pataye Har Har Mahadev
You must have heard this popular chant while travelling around Kashi. It is because in Kashi, Lord Shiva is believed to have stayed since before the creation of this world, and even before Lord Vishnu. He is not just worshipped here — he is believed to govern liberation (moksha). According to legends, Mahadev brought Goddess Parvati to Kashi on Rangbhari Ekadashi, where he played Holi with everyone except the Ganas, spirits and ghosts. Thereafter, Shiva played Holi with them at the Masan with the ashes from the burning pyres.
Manikarnika and Harishchandra Ghats are among the oldest and most sacred cremation sites in India.
Aghori Holi in Varanasi – Truth vs Myth
Online search often exaggerates “Aghori Baba Holi”, and hence, I have mentioned the reality of Masan Holi in Varanasi.
Reality:
- Not all sadhus present are Aghoris
- Not all Aghoris participate publicly
- Media clips often show just the dramatic visuals
You may witness:
- Ash tilak application
- Rudraksha-clad sadhus
- Minimal use of dry colour mixed with ash
- Devotional chanting
You will not witness:
- Uncontrolled frenzy
- Disrespect toward funeral rites
- Rituals performed for tourist entertainment
This is sacred space, not performance theatre. Hence, you should avoid any form of misconduct, such as getting too close to the participants or the burning pyres.
Ground-Level Observations of Masan Holi From Previous Years
I have personally witnessed the following during the Masaan Holi celebration, especially last year in 2025.
- The crowd builds gradually throughout the afternoon
- Police and water cops increase their presence everywhere for security
- Cremation platforms remain operational
- Devotional intensity peaks during the afternoons
When Masan Holi’s ashes settle, and the chants fade, only the sound of Om remains.
Guidelines for Safety and Perfect Masaan Holi Experience
Here are some of the top guidelines to ensure your safety and comfort during the Masan Holi celebrations in the Harishchandra and Manikarnika Ghats.
- Do not enter restricted cremation platforms
- Do not obstruct the funeral movements
- Avoid unstable wooden structures
- Keep valuables secured
- Stay in elevated spectator zones
- Maintain a respectful distance from pyres, police barricading and participants
Women and families can attend safely, but should remain in regulated viewing areas.
Photography Rules at Harishchandra Ghat and Manikarnika Ghat
Photography is quite sensitive here, as many mourn the death of their relatives at these cremation sites. Hence, you are advised to follow strict etiquette:
- Never photograph active cremations
- Ask permission before photographing sadhus
- Avoid flash
- No drone usage without permission
Ethical conduct matters more than dramatic shots.
How to Reach Manikarnika/Harishchandra Ghat for Masan Holi?
Read my previous blog, ‘How to Reach Kashi from Anywhere in the World?’ and ensure a seamless travel experience with this guide. We have still listed some of the most common information you need to know in Varanasi, including the nearest airport, railway stations and popular nearby cities for the perfect trip.
Nearest Airport (Varanasi Airport)
- Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS)
- Distance: approx. 26–30 km
- Travel time: 45–60 minutes (longer during festival congestion)
Nearest Railway Station
- Varanasi Junction (Cantt)
- Distance: approx. 5–6 km
- Travel time: 20–30 minutes
For comfortable local sightseeing, outstation road trips and railway station/airport transfers, you can trust Chiku Cab to ensure smooth travel, whether you are solo, with friends, or loved ones.
Varanasi Airport to Ganga Ghat Taxi Fare
| Route | Taxi Fare (Starting) |
|---|---|
| Varanasi Airport → Ganga Ghat | ₹550 |
| Varanasi Airport → Dashashwamedh Ghat | ₹550 |
| Varanasi Airport → Assi Ghat | ₹550 |
| Varanasi Airport → Manikarnika Ghat | ₹550 |
| Varanasi Airport → Panchganga Ghat | ₹550 |
| Varanasi Airport → Harishchandra Ghat | ₹550 |
Travel Planning Strategy for Masan Holi 2026
You must plan your visit to Varanasi during the Masan Holi very carefully, especially due to the overcrowded streets, market and unavailability of hotels and cabs. Hence, advance planning and booking are necessary to enjoy the Masan Holi.
Why book hotels and cabs in advance during the Masaan Holi Celebrations?
Holi season in Varanasi brings:
- Heavy congestion
- Lane blockages
- Sudden diversions
- Overcrowded public transport
Chiku Cab – The Ideal Taxi Service for Masan Holi Trip in Varanasi
Established in 2018, Chiku Cab is one of the fastest-growing cab companies in India, with 3 local offices in Varanasi. Even during the intense crowd and traffic during the Maha Kumbha Festival in Prayagraj in 2025, Chiku Cab provided over 10,000 rides. Chiku Cab provides:
- Airport pickup for Masan Holi
- Railway station transfers
- Round-trip taxi for Manikarnika visit
- AC Sedans & SUVs for families
- Tempo Travellers for groups
- Local drivers familiar with ghat access restrictions
Benefits of Chiku Cab for Masan Holi
Get the following offers by booking with Chiku Cab:
- Fixed pricing
- No surge
- Coordinated drop near permitted zones
- 24×7 assistance
Call 844-844-5504 to pre-book your Masan Holi 2026 taxi with Chiku Cab.
Advance booking is strongly recommended during Holi week.
Avoid Touts and Scammers in Varanasi
Many tourists, especially foreigners, have to face issues such as scams, overcharging or being followed or forced to buy things. While many do not fall prey to such scams,
Read my earlier blog to Avoid Taxi Scams in Varanasi by booking from a trusted cab service provider like Chiku Cab.
Common reflections from real visitors of Masan Holi 2025
People from all over India and the world come over to witness this unique form of Holi Celebration in Kashi, having mixed reactions. While many tourists positively react to this event, others are shocked, discomforted or exhausted. Last year, I randomly asked some of the pilgrims, visitors and locals, whose mixed reactions included:
- “Emotionally intense but peaceful.”
- “Unlike any Holi I’ve seen.”
- “The only thing I hated was the crowd”
- “Not frightening — just powerful.”
- “Chanting Om Namah Shivaya in Manikarnika while watching this changed my life”
- “First thinking of the dead bodies scared me; now it feels like the ultimate reality thanks to my first trip to Varanasi”
However, it is safe to say that Masan Holi is something totally different from whatever you have been expecting in your mind, and if you are not afraid of crowds, this place is perfect for your Kashi Yatra.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Masan Holi of Varanasi?
Masaan Ki Holi refers to the Holi of the cremation site, where the cremation ashes are used as a symbol of purification and dedication to Lord Shiva.
Who can play Masan Holi?
Masan Holi is believed to be played by Lord Shiva with spirits and ascetics. Locals involved in Shamshan, Aghoris, Sadhus and Bhoot Pishach are central to this festival.
When is Masan Holi celebrated in 2026?
Masan Holi 2026 is expected on 27 and 28th February 2026 after Rangbhari Ekadashi. The exact date follows the Hindu lunar calendar and should be confirmed locally.
Why is Masan Holi related to Lord Shiva?
Lord Shiva is associated with cremation grounds and ash. Masan Holi reflects his ascetic nature and the philosophy of impermanence.
Where exactly does Masan Holi happen?
Masan Holi is celebrated primarily at Manikarnika Ghat in Varanasi, and one day earlier at the Harishchandra Ghat.
Is Masan Holi safe for families?
Yes, if families remain in designated viewing zones and avoid deep cremation platforms.
Is the Ropeway Available During Masan Holi 2026?
No. The Varanasi Ropeway Project is still in its completion and testing stage, and the Girijaghar/Godaulia Platform has not been completed yet. Hence, this year, you might not be able to experience the ropeway trip for the Masan Holi celebrations in Kashi.
Is Masan Holi Safe for Tourists?
Yes — if attended respectfully. Read the Safety Tips in this blog to learn more about Masan Holi and ensure your safety in Varanasi.
How to reach Manikarnika Ghat for Masan Holi?
You can hire taxis, tuktuks or walk to Manikarnika Ghat from nearby sites like Shree Kashi Vishwanath Temple or Godaulia. For longer distances, you can hire Chiku Cab for a quick airport, local sightseeing or outstation taxi.
Can tourists attend Masan Holi?
Yes. Visitors can attend, but very respectfully and carefully, because it is a ritual environment, not a staged event.
With 7+ years of experience as a professional content writer, I specialise in blog and academic content writing. For me, writing is simply more than my profession—it’s a journey of self-discovery through spiritual exploration and soulful expression, often inspired by music and mindfulness.
