Varanasi—the spiritual heart of India, is located in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. Fondly known as Banaras and Kashi, Varanasi is one of the ancient cities or probably the first ever cities in the world. It is believed the city was built by the Lord Shiva himself. It is the cultural and spiritual land of the country, where you will witness a blend of serenity, spirituality, and thrilling experiences. And below is our Varanasi Travel Guide packed with lots of tips and information to plan your Varanasi trip.
One would love to explore this sacred city of Varanasi. There are more than 2000 ancient temples, including Kashi Vishwanath dedicated to the Lord Shiva. While booking your Varanasi tour package, ensure it covers all the top places to visit and important things to do. Well, our Varanasi Travel Guide is all you need to plan your trip to Varanasi. We have got you covered for everything from the best places to explore to the best time to visit, shopping places, and the type of food to try in Varanasi.
Varanasi—Where Life and Death Intertwine in Harmony
On the banks of the river Ganges, Varanasi is an ancient city and one of the most sacred Hindu pilgrimage sites in India. It is also a sacred place for Jains and Buddhists. People from the Hindu religion come here to bathe in the holy Ganga River. With thousands of temples on every corner, it is no wonder why Varanasi is called the “City of Temples”. Along with this, the town has more than 84 Ghats. These Ghats are famous for performing religious ceremonies and cremation. Pilgrims come here to embrace spiritualism and even some come to die here and attain salvation. It is the spiritual heart of the country.
Besides, being an ethereal hub, Varanasi is famous for its congested lanes. You will explore the labyrinth of streets where you will see many sellers selling delectable foods and traditional attires. No matter what you know about the city, there are still many hidden gems. A trip to Varanasi will surely be a soul-rejuvenating experience. So, plan a journey to Varanasi following our Varanasi travel guide.
Best Time to Visit Varanasi
Every season is best to visit Varanasi. It looks majestic in all seasons. It receives millions of throughout the year. However, October to March is the best time to visit Varanasi.
During Winter
- October and November- The Winter season starts in October. Hence the weather is pleasant with temperatures ranging from 21°C to 30°C. Another reason to visit during the month is that this is the festival season. You will see Varanasi in a completely different avatar during Diwali and Dev Deepawali.
- December and January- With temperatures 9°C - 22°C, this time is the peak season for tourists.
- February and March- The best months to visit Varanasi is February to March because of the moderate temperature ranging from 15 °C to 25°C.
During Summer
The summer season starts here at the end of March and lasts through May. The temperature ranges from 32°C and 45°C. It could be difficult for people to wander in the streets of Varanasi during hot summer days. But since pilgrims visit here to dip in the holy Ganga River, they find summer to be the most suitable season to visit Varanasi.
Must Visit Places in Varanasi
Mythologically known as the abode of Shiva, Varanasi is one of the sacred cities in India for Hindus. People call it Banaras, Kashi, or Varanasi. It is one of the oldest cities in the world. The city not only attracts travelers but also the people on their deathbeds who come to Varanasi to seek salvation. Hindus believe that the one who dies here attains Moksha (Salvation). Replete with thousands of temples and hundreds of ghats, Varanasi is considered the spiritual land of India. Exploring all the temples in Varanasi is almost impossible for travelers. But there are a few major spots that everyone must visit. When planning your Varanasi tour, you must visit the places given below:
Kashi Vishwanath Temple
One of the eminent tourist destinations in Varanasi is the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. The temple has a Shivalinga which is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is located on the western banks of the holy Ganga River so, before visiting the temple, people bathe in the holy Ganga water. It is one of the magical experiences every devotee awaits in their life. The golden-plated dome and spire look magnificent. The temple remains open from 4 am to 11 pm. Devotees can come any time of the day for Darshan. After the Darshan, one should wait to attend the evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, the most popular ghat in Varanasi.
Dashashwamedh Ghat
Among many Dashashwamedh Ghat is the most popular and sacred ghat in Varanasi. It is one of the best places to visit in Varanasi. The most thrilling experience for tourists in Varanasi is watching Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat. It is located just 10 minutes away from the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, easily accessible on foot. Devotees from all around the world come to Varanasi to witness this magical experience that no one should ever miss. During sunset, you will see the Ganga water bathing the hues of yellow and orange, which makes it truly a sight to behold!
Durga Temple
One of the best places to visit in Varanasi is Durga Temple. This temple is also known as Monkey Temple due to the large monkey population. It was built in the 18th century. The architecture of this temple is impressive as it has multi-tiered Shikharas. It is believed that the Statue of the deity in the temple—Maa Durga, was not built but naturally appeared on its own. The festival of Navratri is celebrated with great enthusiasm and numerous devotees flock during the time. Next to the temple, there is a Kund called Durga Kund which adds to the beauty of the premises. The best time to visit here is during September to October when Navratri is celebrated.
Bharat Mata Temple
One of the best attractions and a place that you should not miss to visit in Varanasi is Bharat Mata Temple. It is located on the Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapeeth campus. The temple symbolizes the Unity, Diversity, and Cultural Heritage. The significance of this temple lies in the uniqueness that this temple is dedicated to our motherland—Bharat Mata. You won’t see any religious god or deity here but the map of India with Bharat Mata.
Maikarnika Ghat
Manikarnika Ghat is nestled along the holy Ganges river, it is the Maha Smashaan, the cremation ground. It is one of the busiest ghats in Varanasi. It houses an eternal fire, which is an open crematorium for Hindu rituals. People believe that life begins in Dashashwamedh Ghat and ends at Manikarnika Ghat. This ghat is considered the most sacred place where spiritual salvation can be achieved. If you are on your Varanasi trip, visiting Manikarnika Ghat will show you the reality of this mortal life. You can reach the Ghat by boat or bus. The experience is completely different when you see the views during a boat ride.
Assi Ghat
Assi Ghat is one of the two prominent ghats in Varanasi. It is located in the southern part of the town at the confluence of River Ganga and River Assi. Hence, a large number of tourists flock here to dip in the holy water. At Assi Ghat, you find a Shivalinga under a Peepal Tree. People worship Shivalinga with holy fire rituals blowing conch and clanging bells and priest chanting mantras. This makes it one of the most spiritual and sacred places to visit in Varanasi. Also, you can enjoy a boat ride in Assi Ghat and click some good pictures.
Ramnagar Fort
Ramnagar Fort is located near the eastern banks of the Ganges River. It was built in the 18th century by Raja Balwant Singh, the king of Varanasi at that time. It is built with sandstone and is one of the top places to visit in Varanasi. The fort is located on the outskirts of the city. So, you will take a boat ride to reach the fort. It will take you approx. 30 mins to reach.
Top Things to Do in Varanasi
People of all interests come to this magical city, where they get plenty of things to do and experience. Whether you are on a 2-day trip to Varanasi or have more time, you should not miss on the following things:
Take Bath in the Ganges
Varanasi is a sacred place where people come to take a bath in the holy Ganga River. Bathing in the Ganga River is of great significance. It is believed that it washes away your sins. There are more than 80 Ghats in Varanasi. You will see pilgrims chanting mantras while bathing in the river to appease and take blessings from the River Goddess. Hindu people also fill a bottle with holy Ganges water which they use in any religious ceremony.
Attend Ganga Aarti
One of the top attractions and important things to do in Varanasi is watching the famous Ganga Aarti. You can watch Ganga Aarti at the main ghat—Dashshwamedh Ghat. People sit on the stairs or some watch the aarti from the boat. It is performed to pray to Lord Shiva and the Goddess Ganga. This takes around 45 mins and is performed after sunset. You can also seek blessings by releasing floating diyas onto the holy Ganges.
Take a Sunrise Boat Ride in the Ganges
Although there is an option for a sunset boat ride, the sunrise boat ride on the Ganges is something really magical. Your trip to this sacred place is incomplete without indulging yourself in this soul-stirring ride. Leave your hotel at the crack of dawn to witness the beauty of sunrise in the holy city of Banaras. You will reach the ghat during the preparations of Sunrise Aarti. Once the ceremony is completed, take the boat ride to watch Varanasi come alive. You will see locals bathing, praying, and meditating along the ghats. See the main temples from the boat and also watch the cremations taking place.
Explore the Ghats on Foot
Varanasi is world famous for its ghats. There are hundreds of temples and Ghats in the town. The best part about these ghats is that they are easily accessible on foot. The town is named after the two major ghats—Varun and Assi—Varanasi. Along with these two, the 82 other ghats possess a rich cultural heritage. Each ghat tells a different story. Hindus considered Varanasi the best place to perform religious rituals and puja. In fact, people come here to die and attain salvation. Even cremations are performed in some of these Ghats. Some of the famous ghats in Varanasi are:
- Dashashwamedh Ghat
- Darbhanga Ghat
- Assi Ghat
- Manikarnika Ghat
- Digpatia Ghat
- Chet Singh Ghat
- Man Mandir Ghat
- Scindia Ghat
Taste Street Food
Besides the thrilling and serene experience, Varanasi offers some delicious foods to try on. While passing through the narrow lanes, you will come across the street sellers selling delicious food. Some of the best street foods you must try in Varanasi are Kachori Sabzi, Tamatar Chaat, Golgappe, Malaiyyo, Chhena Dahi Vada, Launglata, and many others. Varanasi is replete with Lassi shops. Do not forget to try Lassi in Varanasi, especially when exploring the ghats in the summer season.
Enjoy Shopping
One of the fun things to do in Varanasi is shopping. Varanasi is famous for its Banarasi Silk Sarees that is a must-buy when you are there. Apart from this, you will find several other things you can buy as souvenirs. Apart from the silk sarees, the Chikankari kurtas and dresses are famous here. Some even buy religious items like Rudraksha mala, Shivalingas, glass beads, and idols for their houses. Some of the best places for shopping in Varanasi are: Godowlia Market, Rajan Silk Market, Vishwanath Lane, Thatheri Bazaar, and Gol Ghar.
Besides spiritual significance, Varanasi is a city known for its beauty in diversity. It has so many things to offer to its visitors. Whether you are a spiritual seeker or just a wanderlust, Varanasi is the best destination for all. If you are planning a trip to Varanasi with your family/friends or solo then do not forget to enjoy these soul-soothing activities in Varanasi and explore the places mentioned above.
How to Reach Varanasi
Varanasi is one of the prominent destinations in India. It is easily accessible from most major cities. Considering your boarding point from Delhi, you have got all the three options to reach Varanasi:
- By Train – India boasts one of the largest train networks in the world and has plenty of trains to Varanasi from all the Indian states. One of the best and cheapest options to travel to Varanasi is by train. It will take an overnight journey to reach Varanasi from Delhi. Do not worry if your boarding point is not Delhi, you will get frequent trains from any major town to Varanasi.
- By Plane – There are regular flights available from New Delhi to Varanasi. At the Airport, you will take a cab to reach the main town which is not so far in kilometers yet takes around 2 hours due to heavy traffic.
- By Road – Another good option for a group or family traveling to Varanasi is by road. You can either book a personal cab or taxi or you can take a bus from Delhi to Varanasi. The road journey takes around 12-13 hours.
Top Reasons Why People Visit Varanasi
With a rich spiritual history, Varanasi is one of the best travel destinations in India. Hindus believe if they die here, they will be liberated from the endless cycle of death and rebirth. And, if they don’t die here their beloved ones bring ashes to immerse in the Ganges water for salvation.
Varanasi is also known as Kashi the town of Lord Shiva. It is one of the most sacred Hindu pilgrimage sites where people come for Mahadev’s darshan. Apart from this, several other reasons attract travelers from all around the world.
- Ganga Aarti: One of the most fascinating that every tourist will experience here is the Ganges Aarti. Watching hundreds of diyas illuminating the Ganga River in the dusk is amazing. You will experience the magic and warmth of spiritualism in the air. People from all around the world visit Varanasi especially to attend Ganga Aarti. The popular ghats to watch Ganga Aarti are Dashashwamedh and Assi Ghat.
- Fairs and Festivals: Apart from the pilgrimage shrines, Varanasi is famous for its fairs and festivals. Shivaratri, Holi, Diwali, and Dev Deepawali are the most beloved festivals in the city that everyone must experience.
- The Ghats: Varanasi has over 80 ghats, each with its own story and importance. You can see saints or holy people praying or meditating at these ghats. Walking along the ghats and watching the sacred Ganga river is a special experience.
- Street Food: When it comes to street food, Varanasi offers a diverse selection of foods and beverages. People come here to taste these delicacies, especially Lassi, Malaiyyo, and Kachori Sabzi.
- A Visit to Sarnath: Approx. 10 km from Varanasi, a holy place Sarnath is located. This place is special for the Buddhist community as this is where Gautama Buddha preached for the first time.
Travel Tips to Get the Best Out of Varanasi Trip
You might have been warned about the scams that usually happen with tourists. People may try to sell you unworthy products at a high price or the guide may overcharge you. Well, this may happen to anyone hence, one should always be alert. But you cannot ignore the fact that you will need a guide to make the most out of your Varanasi trip. Either get a Varanasi tour package from a reliable tour agency or book a local guide in the city. In both cases, be mindful. With the right tour guide or tour package offers, you get great insight into the city. Also, get the opportunity to see some off-the-beaten-track places.
Similarly, we have some other tips for you all to get the best out of the Varanasi Trip:
- Visit during festivals: If possible, plan your trip with Varanasi with family/friends/family or a solo trip during festivals. You will have a completely different experience when you see the city being illuminated by golden lights that make it look royal. Visiting Varanasi during festivals will give you a wonderful experience and memories to cherish forever.
- Refrain from clicking pictures of the cremation ghats: One of the very rare sights a person during a trip can experience is watching cremation. Yes, Varanasi has a few ghats that are a cremation ground. You may want to click pictures but this can be considered disrespecting the emotions of the deceased family. People may start to stare at you and the locals even start to hurl at you if they see you taking pictures. So, if possible do not take out your cameras and click photos.
- Wake up early: One of the best ways to explore Varanasi is to go out in the early morning when half of the crowd is still sleeping. You will not get too much crowd at that time. And the sense of silence and peace at ghats and temples will rejuvenate your soul. Every time of the day In Varanasi is different and gives different vibes.
- Don’t take pictures of the Sadhus: A ghat walk is a must for any visitors to Varanasi. While doing so, you may see many Sadhus wearing saffron clothes which can be an interesting sight. However, you should not start clicking their pictures, you may disturb their Sadhana or Tapasya. Before clicking photos, you must ask for their permission, which they usually agree to.
Now that you know almost everything about Varanasi—which places to visit, what to do, what to eat, and what to shop, it’s time for you to plan your trip. Book accommodations or simply book a Varanasi tour package to experience the city’s culture, history, and spirituality.
We hope you find this Varanasi travel guide helpful and plan your visit soon!