The ritual bathing of the Shivling with milk, water, honey and other offerings while Pandits chant the Rudri (Sri Rudram), one of the most loved Shiva pujas.
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Varanasi · Kashi · Banaras
Tarpan in Varanasi
Tarpan is the offering of water mixed with sesame seeds, barley and kusha grass to ancestors and deities. In Varanasi it is commonly performed standing in or beside the Ganga in the early morning, with a Pandit guiding the mantras.
It may be done as a standalone rite, as part of shraddha and pind daan, or on each day of Pitru Paksha. A Pandit can help you with the correct sequence and names to be remembered.
ॐ पितृभ्यः स्वधायिभ्यः स्वधा नमः॥
Oṁ pitṛbhyaḥ svadhāyibhyaḥ svadhā namaḥ.
Why Varanasi
Why families choose Varanasi for Tarpan
Offering water to one's ancestors in the Ganga at Varanasi is an act many Hindus regard as deeply meaningful. The river and the ghats make tarpan here feel like a direct continuation of tradition.
Because tarpan is short and performed at the river, it fits easily into a pilgrimage schedule, many families offer tarpan at dawn and continue with other rites or darshan later in the day.
Local traditions & timing
- Tarpan is usually done early in the morning at the ghats.
- The river current and water level vary by season; follow the Pandit's guidance on where to stand.
- During the monsoon, some ghat steps may be submerged and access can change.
- Pitru Paksha brings large crowds to the ghats at dawn.
Where it's performed
- On the ghats, standing beside or in the Ganga
- From a boat, where the Pandit advises
- At home or a guest house when river access is difficult, using Ganga jal
Planning tips
- Plan to reach the ghat around sunrise.
- Carry a change of clothes and a towel if you will enter the river.
- Bring names and gotra of the ancestors for the offering.
- Elderly family members may prefer a ghat reachable by road, such as Assi.
- Leave valuables at your accommodation.
About Tarpan
The simple, holy offering of water with sesame and kusha to the ancestors, traditionally performed in the Ganga at Kashi during Pitru Paksha and on Amavasya.
Duration
45 minutes 1.5 hours
Pricing
On enquiry
Online option
Available
Tarpan in Varanasi: FAQs
When should Tarpan be performed in Varanasi?
Tarpan is traditionally offered in the morning, especially during Pitru Paksha, on Amavasya and as part of shraddha.
Do I need to enter the Ganga for Tarpan?
Many devotees stand in the river, but it can also be done from the steps. The Pandit will guide you based on water levels and your comfort.
How long does Tarpan take?
A standalone tarpan is usually short, often under an hour. It takes longer when part of shraddha.
Can Tarpan be combined with Pind Daan?
Yes. Tarpan is commonly performed alongside pind daan and shraddha.
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शुभं भवतु
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