https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/0/0e/Varanasi%2C_India%2C_Ghats%2C_Cremation_ceremony_in_progress.jpg/500px-Varanasi%2C_India%2C_Ghats%2C_Cremation_ceremony_in_progress.jpg
Destination

Varanasi

The Spiritual Capital of India

Overview Attractions Things to Do Nearby Weather FAQ

About Varanasi

Also known as Kashi or Banaras, it is one of the world's oldest living cities. Famous for its ghats, temples, and spiritual vibrancy, it is where life and death walk hand in hand.

Top Attractions

https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/ff/Kashi_Vishwanath.jpg

Kashi Vishwanath Temple

One of the 12 Jyotirlingas, the holiest of Shiva temples, recently renovated with a grand corridor.

Must Visit
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/a/ad/Dasaswamedh_ghat-varanasi_india-andres_larin.jpg/500px-Dasaswamedh_ghat-varanasi_india-andres_larin.jpg

Dashashwamedh Ghat

The main ghat known for its spectacular evening Ganga Aarti performed by priests.

Must Visit
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/c/c2/Assi_Ghat_Varanasi_morning_Aarti.jpg

Assi Ghat

The southernmost ghat, popular for long-term stays, yoga, and cafes.

Must Visit

History & Significance

Mark Twain once wrote: 'Benaras is older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend...' It has been a cultural centre of North India for thousands of years.

Things to Do in Varanasi

Morning Boat Ride

Watch the sunrise and rituals unfold on the Ganges. A must-do experience.

Sarnath Visit

Visit the site where Lord Buddha preached his first sermon (10km away).

Try Blue Lassi

Famous lassi shop in the narrow alleys serving hand-churned yogurt.

Ganga Aarti

Witness the choreographed fire ritual every evening.

Best Time & Info

November to February is the best time to explore the ghats and alleyways.

Winter (Nov–Feb)

5°C – 15°C

Cold but magical. Best for morning boat rides.

Summer (Mar–Jun)

30°C – 45°C

Extremely hot and humid. Not recommended for tourism.

Monsoon (Jul–Sep)

25°C – 35°C

River levels rise, boat rides may be suspended.

Festivals & Events

  • Dev Deepawali Celebrated 15 days after Diwali, all 84 ghats are lit with millions of oil lamps.
  • Maha Shivaratri A grand procession of Lord Shiva takes place in the city.

How to Reach

  • By Air Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport (VNS) has daily flights from major cities.
  • By Train Varanasi Junction (BSB) and Pt. Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Junction (DDU) are major hubs.
  • By Road Connected via NH19. 12-hour drive from Delhi.

Places Near Varanasi

Sarnath

10 km

Major Buddhist pilgrimage site with the Dhamek Stupa.

Plan Trip

Prayagraj

120 km

Meeting point of Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers.

Plan Trip

Vindhyachal

60 km

A Shakti Peeth pilgrimage destination.

Plan Trip

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Varanasi safe for solo travelers?
Yes, but navigating the labyrinthine alleys can be tricky; using maps or guides is recommended.
Can we take photos of cremation ghats?
No, photography is strictly prohibited at Manikarnika and Harishchandra burning ghats out of respect.

Plan your trip to Varanasi

Our experts will help you create the perfect itinerary.

Prefer to talk?

+91 98084 75750

Need a Car Rental?

Luxury fleets available for Agra tours at best prices.

View Fleet