Varanasi Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting
One of the oldest surviving cities in the world is Varanasi, sometimes referred to as Kashi or Banaras. This historic spiritual capital of India, which is situated in Uttar Pradesh on the banks of the holy Ganga River, provides a comprehensive sense of heavenly energy, cultural diversity, and timeless traditions. Life and death coexist in Varanasi. It is an exceptional Hindu pilgrimage site where saints meditate on the banks of the Ganga, and funeral pyres burn next to it. Varanasi is not just a sacred city; it holds immense stories in itself. Every moment spent in this city provides a window into India’s soul, from boat rides at sunrise to busy marketplaces and religious rituals.
This is the reason people from all across the world visit here to experience its majestic beauty, cultural importance, and tales related to life and death. If you are also planning your trip to Varanasi, then this guide is for you. Let’s have a complete overview of Varanasi attractions, markets, food places, best time to visit, and much more to make your experience unforgettable. So, let’s dive straight into the blog.
Why Visit Varanasi?
Varanasi is a must-visit destination if you want to delve into the cultural significance of India. It is one of the oldest cities in the world and is said to offer some of the most surprising experiences that you might not have expected. Here are the key reasons that drive you closer to Varanasi:
- Spiritual Community: Varanasi is the spiritual epicenter of India. Every day, there is talking, chanting, and praying, as well as rituals and ceremonies in this wonderful city. The energy of the city connects one to the historical past, relating to the ancient traditions and divine play of the life process and death.
- Cultural Revival: Every alley, ghat, and temple in this city provides the varied readings of music, art/culture, language, and spiritual life that have been existing for centuries. This is the reason why history enthusiasts must visit here.
- Historical Background: Over 3000 years old, Varanasi is one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world and has profound significance to India’s religious and cultural background. This makes it a special place to visit in India.
- Historical Architecture: Powerful temples and tall forts tell a deep story about dynasties, religious devotion, and an enormous history of ancient life and times for centuries.
- Authentic India: Varanasi is India in its raw, unpolished, truest form, which is chaotic yet peaceful, old but ageless. Therefore, visiting here is an authentic experience where every street corner provides a moment for spiritual awakening.
Best Time to Visit Varanasi
October to March are the best months to visit Varanasi because of the pleasant weather that makes exploration comfortable. The 5°C to 20°C temperatures during these months make them apt for long walks along the ghats, boat rides, and temple visits. Traveling during the summer (April to June) is uncomfortable due to temperatures that soar above 40°C. Although it brings heavy rains, the monsoon season (July to September) provides a more peaceful view of the city. You can also try visiting Varanasi during festivals like Dev Deepawali, Diwali, or Makar Sankranti, when the city is adorned with exceptional spiritual energy, for a truly immersive cultural experience.
How to Reach Varanasi
You can visit Varanasi through various means of transport. Here is a complete overview:
- By Air: Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport, approximately 25 km away from downtown Varanasi, provides regular connectivity to major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata, as well as limited international flights. Traveling by air is very quick, convenient, and time-saving.
- By Train: Varanasi Junction (BSB) is among the busiest stations in India and is well-connected to major metros, such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata, with frequent train services. This station serves as the central station for Varanasi. Manduadih Station (now Banaras Station) is a quiet and relatively efficient alternative.
- By Road: Varanasi is well-connected by highways to major cities (e.g., Allahabad, Patna, and Lucknow). Plenty of buses operated by state or private businesses run throughout the day. It is also possible to hire a taxi or simply to drive there yourself. Driving will provide good views of the countryside and flexibility in visiting other places along our trip.
Top 5 Must-Visit Places in Varanasi
Varanasi is home to some of the major attractions in India. The city offers a range of spiritual sites, cultural experiences, and surprising tales. Here are the top five places in Varanasi that you should definitely not miss during your trip:
1. Kashi Vishwanath Temple
This historic temple, devoted to Lord Shiva, is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas in India. The golden domes and divine atmosphere of this temple make it a significant religious place of worship. It is often said that just visiting this temple will help in providing moksha from rebirth in this cycle of life. This is why people from all walks of life across the world visit this divine temple to seek blessings.
2. Dashashwamedh Ghat
Dashashwamedh Ghat is the most famous ghat in Varanasi, and is well-known for its evening Ganga Aarti. This Ganga Arti is special because priests hold large lamps of fire and, while chanting, wave to the Ganges. It is a stunning experience and sight that inspires all who see it. The ghat also serves as the center for rituals and boat rides.
3. Assi Ghat
Assi Ghat is a favorite for locals and visitors alike and offers peacefulness and significant views of the Ganges. In the early mornings, people gather for Subah-e-Banaras to hear live music, yoga classes, and listen to spiritual talks. It is one of the best places for relaxing boat rides and pictures.
4. Ramnagar Fort
Across the river from the Ganges, this 18th-century fort has elements of Mughal and Indian architecture influence. It is home to a museum with vintage cars, weaponry, and memorabilia of the royal family. The fort provides a magnificent view of the river and opportunities to learn about the royal family of Varanasi. Therefore, such characteristics make it one of the must-visit destinations in Varanasi.
5. Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum
Located inside the Banaras Hindu University campus, this museum showcases over 100,000 artefacts, including sculptures, rare manuscripts, Mughal paintings, and textiles from Banaras. It is a must-visit for art and history lovers who want to explore India’s deep cultural and artistic heritage.
Best Markets To Visit in Varanasi
For shopping lovers, here is a complete list of some of the most prominent markets to visit in the beautiful city of Varanasi:
- Godowlia Market: Located close to Dashashwamedh Ghat, it is one of the oldest& busiest markets in Varanasi. It offers a wide range of local handicrafts, brass idols, and souvenirs, as well as daily-use items at affordable prices. The buzzing energy of Godowlia Market provides the mix of Bangali street life.
- Rajan Silk Market: Rajan Silk Market is located a short walk from Kashi Vishwanath Temple. It’s known for genuine Banarasi sarees at wholesale prices, where you may witness hand-woven, immaculate silk sarees being woven right in front of you inside family-run shops. This is one of the best markets to visit for women who love to explore sarees.
- Vishwanath Lane: This narrow shopping lane close to the temple is full of shops selling bangles, dupattas, wood toys, and spiritual souvenirs. Vishwanath Lane is an excellent place for small, inexpensive souvenirs. You will find that bargaining and a chaotic atmosphere add to its appeal.
- Thatheri Bazaar: Thatheri Bazaar is well-known for traditional copperware and religious artefacts, which reflect the old-world craftsmanship of the city. Moreover, there are silk textiles, antique decor items, and spiritual souvenirs. This is the best market for unique and handcrafted import items tied to Varanasi’s artisan culture.
Overview of Food and Restaurants in Varanasi, India
If you are searching for amazing food spots in Varanasi to try authentic dishes at affordable prices, here are some of the top options that you can consider:
1. VSR Caffe
This cozy cafe is a hidden gem for authentic South Indian cultural cuisine in Varanasi. Their budget-friendly thali has perfectly cooked rice, flavorful sambar, vegetable curries, and chutneys. It is a wholesome and satisfactory meal. Thus, it is an ideal spot for vegetarians.
2. Maa Laxmi Dosa Corner
This small eatery, very close to VSR Caffe, has become famous for serving crispy dosas and fluffy idlis with spicy sambar and coconut chutney. This is also a good spot for a quick, delicious snack or light meal while exploring the nearby ghats.
3. Madhur Milan Cafe
Located on the crowded street (Dashashwamedh Road), this street-side café has become famous for its golden-fried samosas, kachoris, and jalebis. The lively ambiance, quick service, and authentic flavors have made this place popular with both locals and tourists.
4. Kashi Chaat Center
Kashi Chaat Center is a must-visit for street food lovers in India. Patrons should make sure to try the iconic dahi puri, crispy palak chaat, and sweet gulab jamuns. Each dish offers amazing flavor and stays true to the spicy and tangy local ethnic flavor of the varied food culture in Varanasi.
How Much Time Should I Spend in Varanasi?
You need to spend at least two days in Varanasi to enjoy its vibe. You can watch the evening aarti, walk the ghats, and visit divine temples. If you have time, stay 4-5 days. You can also make the most of relaxing boat rides and visit Sarnath and enjoy a short workshop or class about some aspect of yogic tradition, Indian music, or food. The magic of Varanasi usually inspires travelers to stay longer than they planned, and it is good at surprising people, as the city naturally influences you.
Conclusion
Varanasi is a cultural experience that changes you. With every chant, flame, and dip in the Ganges, you find that this holy city has something special. Varanasi impacts the soul. It is an experience where you tick off each place on a list, and it allows you to take time to honor an experience that combines the sacred and the ordinary. Give yourself time to experience the atmosphere, engage with its people, and the rhythmic environment that exists within the experience.
For those thinking of planning a trip to the spiritual capital of India, let Luxury Trails of India take care of your experience. We have done all the hard work, so you can relax and enjoy the journey. We have customized Varanasi tour packages, temple tour packages, guided boat tours, heritage walks, cultural experiences, and more. Even if you are a solo traveler, a family, or a group of spiritual seekers, we have the right package of Varanasi experiences customized just for you. So, book your Varanasi journey today with us and make the most of your journey.
Also Read – Bhararisain – Exploring the Summer Capital of Uttarakhand
