Varanasi: The cultural and spiritual capital of India is set to glow brighter as the Modi–Yogi government prepares to implement an ambitious beautification plan for the city’s iconic religious and tourist sites. Under the ‘Action Plan for Kashi and Sarnath’, facade lighting will soon be installed at 10 major ghats and temples, giving night tourism in Varanasi a transformative new dimension.
The project, with a sanctioned cost of ₹2410.99 lakh, aims to enhance the visual grandeur of Kashi’s historic, cultural and religious heritage after sunset.
10 Sites to Be Illuminated
According to Varanasi Development Authority (VDA) Vice-Chairman Purn Bora, the sites identified for facade lighting include:
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Assi Ghat
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Dashashwamedh Ghat
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Panchganga Ghat
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Kedar Ghat
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Sankat Mochan Temple
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Kaal Bhairav Temple
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Annapurna Temple
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Bharat Mata Temple
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Durga Kund Temple
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Tulsi Manas Temple
These locations hold immense significance in Sanatan culture, and the project aims to highlight their architectural beauty and spiritual aura at night.
Enhancing Beauty, Safety & Tourist Experience
Officials said the facade lighting will make the city’s most revered spots both visually stunning and safer after dark. By showcasing the intricate heritage architecture, the initiative will help visitors better appreciate Kashi’s religious, cultural and historical importance.
Boost to Local Economy and Global Identity
The facelift is expected to significantly boost night-time tourism, encouraging longer visitor stays and benefiting local businesses, artisans and cultural performers.
The project also aligns with the government’s vision to strengthen Kashi’s global identity as a world cultural capital.
With this major initiative, Varanasi is poised to redefine nighttime heritage tourism, presenting its timeless spiritual charm in an enchanting new light.
