Varanasi
One of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities, Varanasi is the spiritual heart of Hinduism. The ghats along the Ganges, evening aarti ceremonies, and silk weaving tradition create an unforgettable experience.
Tours & Experiences
Browse bookable tours, activities, and day trips in Varanasi
📍 Points of Interest
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📋The Rundown
Varanasi (also called Kashi or Benares) is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with a history stretching back over 3,000 years
The city sits on the western bank of the sacred Ganges River with 84 ghats (stone stairways) leading down to the water, where Hindu pilgrims come to bathe, pray, and cremate their dead
Hindus believe that dying in Varanasi and being cremated on the banks of the Ganges grants moksha — liberation from the cycle of rebirth — making it the holiest city in Hinduism
Varanasi is the silk capital of India, famous for its handwoven Banarasi silk saris featuring intricate gold and silver brocade patterns passed down through generations of weavers
The city is a major center of classical music, philosophy, and Sanskrit learning — the Banaras Hindu University (BHU) founded in 1916 is one of Asia's largest residential universities
Mark Twain once described Varanasi as older than history, older than tradition, older than legend — and it looks twice as old as all of them put together
🏛️Must-See Spots
Dashashwamedh Ghat
🗼The main and most spectacular ghat in Varanasi, where the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony takes place every evening at sunset. Priests perform elaborate fire rituals with large brass lamps to the sound of chanting and bells.
Kashi Vishwanath Temple
📌One of the most famous Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, with a gold-plated spire weighing 800 kg. The recently completed Kashi Vishwanath Corridor has transformed the temple precinct into a grand pilgrimage complex.
Manikarnika Ghat
🗼The most sacred cremation ghat in Varanasi where funeral pyres burn around the clock. Hindus believe cremation here ensures liberation from the cycle of rebirth. Photography is strictly prohibited.
Assi Ghat
🗼The southernmost ghat and a popular gathering spot for locals and travelers alike. Morning yoga sessions, cultural performances, and the confluence of the Assi River with the Ganges make it a vibrant daily scene.
Sarnath
📌Just 10 km from Varanasi, this is where the Buddha delivered his first sermon after enlightenment. The Dhamek Stupa, archaeological museum with the Lion Capital of Ashoka, and monastery ruins are unmissable.
Ramnagar Fort
📌An 18th-century Mughal-style sandstone fort across the Ganges, still home to the former royal family of Varanasi. The museum houses vintage cars, ivory work, medieval weaponry, and astronomical clocks.
Banaras Hindu University (BHU)
🗼One of Asia's largest residential universities, set across a sprawling 1,300-acre campus. The Bharat Kala Bhavan museum inside houses an exceptional collection of miniature paintings, sculptures, and textiles.
Morning Boat Ride on the Ganges
📌A sunrise boat ride along the ghats offers the most iconic Varanasi experience — watching the city wake up as pilgrims descend to bathe, priests chant, and cremation smoke drifts across the water.
🗺️Where to Next
Delhi
India's capital city blending Mughal heritage, colonial architecture, and modern energy. The Red Fort, Jama Masjid, and bustling Chandni Chowk offer a sensory overload rivaling Varanasi.
Jaipur
The Pink City of Rajasthan, famed for its rose-hued old city, magnificent forts, and royal palaces. Part of India's Golden Triangle tourist circuit along with Delhi and Agra.
Agra
Home to the Taj Mahal, one of the seven wonders of the world. Agra Fort, Itimad-ud-Daulah, and the abandoned Mughal city of Fatehpur Sikri round out a rich Mughal heritage trail.
Bodhgaya
The place where Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree, making it the most sacred site in Buddhism. The Mahabodhi Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Kathmandu
Nepal's capital in the Himalayan foothills, packed with ancient temples, Buddhist stupas, and medieval palace squares. The gateway to Everest treks and Himalayan adventures.
Lucknow
The City of Nawabs, known for its refined Awadhi cuisine (birthplace of biryani and kebabs), grand Mughal-era architecture, and courtly Urdu literary traditions.
📍Hidden Gems
Silk Weaver Workshops in Sarai Mohana
Visit family-run workshops where master weavers create Banarasi silk saris on traditional handlooms. Watch the painstaking process of weaving gold zari thread into intricate patterns that take weeks to complete.
A chance to see one of India's most celebrated textile traditions up close, meet the artisans, and buy directly at a fraction of showroom prices.
Tulsi Ghat Morning Wrestling Akhara
Traditional Indian mud-pit wrestling (kushti) has been practiced at akharas near the ghats for centuries. Early morning sessions let you watch young wrestlers train in techniques unchanged for generations.
An ancient tradition hidden in plain sight that most tourists never discover, offering an authentic glimpse into old Varanasi culture.
Blue Lassi Shop
A tiny, legendary hole-in-the-wall shop in the old city lanes serving what many consider the best lassi in all of India. Thick curd yogurt blended with seasonal fruits and served in clay cups.
Run by the same family for generations, this no-frills shop draws devotees from across the world for its impossibly thick and creamy lassis.
Subah-e-Banaras at Assi Ghat
A free dawn cultural program held at Assi Ghat featuring classical music, devotional singing, and yoga as the sun rises over the Ganges. A deeply moving start to the day.
An intimate local tradition rather than a tourist performance, showcasing the living classical music heritage that makes Varanasi the cultural capital of North India.
☀️Weather
Varanasi has a humid subtropical climate with extreme summers, a heavy monsoon season, and cool dry winters. The best months to visit are October through March when temperatures are pleasant and rainfall is minimal.
Winter
November - February41 - 77
5 - 25
Cool, dry, and comfortable — the ideal time to visit. Mornings can be foggy and chilly (especially December-January), but afternoons are pleasant. Pack layers for early morning boat rides.
Summer
March - June77 - 113
25 - 45
Brutally hot and dry, especially May-June when temperatures regularly exceed 40°C. Hot, dusty winds (loo) make outdoor sightseeing very challenging. Not recommended for tourism.
Monsoon
July - September77 - 95
25 - 35
Heavy rainfall and high humidity. The Ganges rises dramatically, sometimes flooding the lower ghats. The city takes on a lush green appearance but navigating the lanes becomes difficult.
Post-Monsoon
October68 - 91
20 - 33
A transitional month as the rains recede and temperatures begin to cool. Humidity drops and the city starts its festival season. A good time to visit with fewer crowds than winter peak.
🛡️Safety
Exercise Caution
out of 100
Varanasi is generally safe for tourists but requires street smarts. Petty theft, aggressive touts, and scams (especially fake guides and overpriced boat rides) are the main concerns. The narrow old city lanes can be disorienting. Solo female travelers should exercise extra caution, especially at night.
Things to Know
- •Negotiate boat ride prices before boarding — agree on a fixed price rather than hourly. A sunrise ride should cost ₹200-400 for the whole boat.
- •Be wary of self-appointed guides at the ghats and temples who will demand large payments. Hire official guides through your hotel or the tourism office.
- •Keep valuables secure in the crowded old city lanes (galis) where pickpocketing can occur.
- •Avoid swimming in the Ganges — despite its spiritual significance, pollution levels are very high.
- •Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples. Cover shoulders and knees.
- •Be cautious of "touts" near Manikarnika Ghat who demand money for photography that is actually prohibited.
- •Stick to bottled water and be cautious with street food until your stomach adjusts.
Natural Hazards
Emergency Numbers
Police
100
Ambulance
102
Fire
101
Tourist Helpline
1363
Women Helpline
1091
🚕Transit & Transport
Varanasi's old city is a labyrinth of narrow lanes (galis) where no vehicles can enter — walking is the only option near the ghats. For longer distances, auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws, and ride-hailing apps are available. Traffic is chaotic and roads are congested.
Auto-Rickshaw
₹30-150 per tripThree-wheeled motorized vehicles that are the most common way to get around. Negotiate the fare before getting in as meters are rarely used.
Best for: Short to medium distances outside the old city
Cycle Rickshaw
₹20-80 per tripPedal-powered rickshaws ideal for short hops through congested streets. A traditional and eco-friendly option.
Best for: Short distances and navigating narrow streets near the old city
Ola / Uber
₹80-300 per tripApp-based ride-hailing services with transparent pricing. Availability can be limited in the old city area but useful for airport transfers and longer trips.
Best for: Airport transfers, trips to Sarnath, and avoiding fare negotiation
Rowing Boats
₹200-500 per boat (shared or private)Traditional wooden boats for traveling along the ghats on the Ganges. Essential for the sunrise experience and for reaching ghats that are difficult to access by land.
Best for: Ghat-hopping, sunrise/sunset experiences, and Ganga Aarti viewing
E-Rickshaw (Toto)
₹10-30 per person (shared)Battery-powered three-wheelers that operate on shared routes across the city. Cheap and increasingly popular.
Best for: Budget travel on fixed routes
🚶 Walkability
The old city ghats and lanes are exclusively pedestrian and best explored on foot. Be prepared for steep ghat steps, cow dung on paths, and disorienting alleyways. Outside the old city, walking is less practical due to traffic and distances.
✈️Getting In & Out
✈️ Airports
Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport(VNS)
26 km northwest of the old cityPrepaid taxi (₹600-800, 45-60 min), Ola/Uber (₹400-600), or airport shuttle. Traffic can add significant time.
✈️ Search flights to VNS🚆 Rail Stations
Varanasi Junction (BSB)
2 km from the ghatsThe main railway station with trains to Delhi (8-12 hrs), Mumbai (18-24 hrs), Kolkata (10-14 hrs), Agra (10-12 hrs), and Lucknow (4-5 hrs). Well-connected to all major Indian cities.
Manduadih (MUV)
4 km from the ghatsA smaller, less crowded station used by some express trains. Easier to navigate than Varanasi Junction.
Varanasi Cantt (BCY)
5 km from the ghatsCantonment station used by select trains, including some services to Delhi and Lucknow.
🚌 Bus Terminals
Varanasi Bus Terminal (Cantt)
State-run and private buses to Lucknow (6-7 hrs), Allahabad/Prayagraj (3 hrs), Gorakhpur (5-6 hrs), and Bodhgaya (6 hrs). Private Volvo sleeper buses also run to Delhi (12-14 hrs).
🛍️Shopping
Varanasi is a shopper's paradise for silk textiles, religious artifacts, and traditional crafts. The old city lanes are packed with tiny shops selling everything from handwoven saris to wooden toys. Bargaining is expected everywhere except fixed-price government emporiums.
Vishwanath Gali
market_streetThe narrow lane leading to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, lined with shops selling silk saris, religious items, brass ware, and traditional sweets.
Known for: Banarasi silk saris, religious offerings, and temple souvenirs
Thatheri Bazaar
traditional_marketA UNESCO-recognized heritage marketplace specializing in brass and copper utensils. Artisans still work in traditional workshops lining the narrow lane.
Known for: Handcrafted brass and copper vessels, lamps, and decorative items
Chowk Market
market_areaA sprawling old city market area that is the commercial heart of Varanasi, selling everything from spices and sweets to textiles and jewelry.
Known for: Spices, sweets (especially Kachori Gali street food), everyday goods
Mehmoorganj / IP Mall Area
modern_shoppingThe newer commercial area with modern shops, brand stores, and malls for those seeking air-conditioned retail therapy.
Known for: Modern retail, branded goods, and cafes
🎁 Unique Souvenirs to Look For
- •Banarasi silk saris and stoles with gold/silver zari work
- •Rudraksha bead malas (prayer necklaces)
- •Brass and copper utensils from Thatheri Bazaar
- •Wooden lacquerware toys and decorative items
- •Gulabi Minakari (pink enamel) jewelry
- •Thandai masala powder (traditional spiced milk mix)
- •Handmade sandalwood and incense products
💵Money & Tipping
Indian Rupee
Code: INR
ATMs are widely available in the main city areas but scarce in the old city lanes near the ghats. Carry cash for the old city, boat rides, and small shops. Money changers are found near Godowlia Crossing and the main ghats.
Payment Methods
Cash is king in Varanasi, especially in the old city. UPI (Google Pay, PhonePay, Paytm) is widely accepted even at small shops and street vendors. Credit cards are accepted at hotels, larger restaurants, and modern shops but rarely in the old city. Always carry small denomination notes.
Tipping Guide
5-10% at sit-down restaurants if service charge is not included. Rounding up is common at casual eateries.
₹50-100 for a good sunrise or evening boat ride, on top of the agreed fare.
₹200-500 per half-day for a licensed guide, depending on group size and duration.
₹50-100 per bag for porters; ₹100-200 per day for housekeeping at mid-range and above hotels.
Not expected, but rounding up small amounts is appreciated.
A small offering (₹10-50) at temples is customary and appreciated.
💰Budget
budget
$15-25
Guesthouse dorms or basic rooms near the ghats, street food and cheap thali meals, shared boats, and walking. Varanasi is one of India's most affordable tourist cities.
mid-range
$40-80
Heritage hotel or boutique guesthouse, private boat rides, restaurant meals, auto-rickshaws, and a guided tour of the old city and Sarnath.
luxury
$150-300
Five-star hotel (Taj Nadesar Palace, BrijRama Palace on the ghats), private guided experiences, fine dining, spa treatments, and chauffeured car.
Typical Costs
| Item | Local | USD |
|---|---|---|
| AccommodationDorm bed near ghats | ₹300-600 | $4-7 |
| AccommodationMid-range hotel | ₹2,000-5,000 | $24-60 |
| AccommodationHeritage/luxury hotel | ₹10,000-30,000 | $120-360 |
| FoodStreet food meal (kachori, chaat) | ₹30-80 | $0.40-1 |
| FoodThali meal at local restaurant | ₹100-200 | $1.20-2.40 |
| FoodRestaurant dinner | ₹400-1,000 | $5-12 |
| TransportAuto-rickshaw ride | ₹30-150 | $0.40-1.80 |
| TransportSunrise boat ride (private) | ₹300-500 | $4-6 |
| ActivitySarnath entry + museum | ₹40 (Indian) / ₹300 (foreigner) | $0.50 / $3.60 |
| ShoppingBanarasi silk stole | ₹500-3,000 | $6-36 |
💡 Money-Saving Tips
- •Stay in guesthouses along the ghats in the old city — they offer the best location at budget prices.
- •Eat at local thali restaurants and street food stalls rather than tourist-oriented cafes.
- •Share boat rides with other travelers to split costs — approach groups at Dashashwamedh Ghat.
- •The Ganga Aarti is free to watch from the ghats — arrive early for a good spot rather than paying for a boat view.
- •Walk the ghats instead of taking boats between them — the experience is equally rewarding.
- •Visit Sarnath by shared auto or e-rickshaw rather than private taxi.
- •Buy silk directly from weaver workshops in areas like Sarai Mohana rather than showrooms near the ghats.
🗓️When to Visit
Best Time to Visit
October to March — cool, dry weather ideal for exploring the ghats, old city lanes, and attending festivals. November (Dev Deepawali) and March (Holi) are particularly magical times.
October - March (Winter/Cool Season)
Crowds: High — peak tourist and pilgrimage season, especially around Dev Deepawali (November) and Maha Shivaratri (February/March).Pleasant temperatures, clear skies, and the peak festival season. December and January mornings can be quite cold and foggy, but afternoons are comfortable.
Pros
- + Comfortable temperatures for walking the ghats
- + Major festivals and cultural events
- + Clear skies for photography
- + Best time for boat rides
Cons
- − Peak season prices at hotels
- − Dense morning fog in December-January can delay flights/trains
- − Early mornings are cold (5-8°C)
April - June (Summer)
Crowds: Low — very few tourists, making it the cheapest time to visit.Extremely hot with temperatures often exceeding 40°C. Dry, dusty winds make outdoor exploration very uncomfortable. Not recommended unless you have a high heat tolerance.
Pros
- + Lowest prices and thinnest crowds
- + Hotels offer significant discounts
- + No rain to disrupt plans
Cons
- − Dangerously hot temperatures (40-47°C)
- − Hot dusty winds (loo)
- − Many tourist services reduced
- − Exhausting to walk the ghats
July - September (Monsoon)
Crowds: Low to moderate — few tourists but domestic pilgrims continue to visit.Heavy rainfall and high humidity. The Ganges swells and can flood the lower ghats. The city turns green and lush, and there is a unique atmospheric beauty, but logistics become difficult.
Pros
- + Dramatic monsoon atmosphere and green landscapes
- + Low prices and few foreign tourists
- + Cooler temperatures than summer
Cons
- − Heavy rains and flooding of lower ghats
- − Slippery ghat steps and muddy lanes
- − High humidity and mosquitoes
- − Train and flight delays common
🎉 Festivals & Events
Dev Deepawali
NovemberThe Festival of Lights of the Gods, celebrated 15 days after Diwali. Over a million earthen lamps (diyas) illuminate the ghats, creating a spectacular sight reflected in the Ganges.
Maha Shivaratri
February/MarchThe Great Night of Shiva draws millions of devotees to Kashi Vishwanath Temple. All-night prayers, processions, and celebrations fill the city with spiritual energy.
Holi
MarchThe festival of colors is celebrated with particular intensity in Varanasi. Expect colored powder, water balloons, bhang (cannabis) lassis, and riotous street celebrations.
Ganga Mahotsav
NovemberA five-day cultural festival featuring classical music, dance performances, and handicraft exhibitions along the ghats, showcasing Varanasi's artistic heritage.
Chhath Puja
October/NovemberA major Bihari and eastern UP festival where devotees stand waist-deep in the Ganges offering prayers to the sun god at sunrise and sunset. The ghats are packed with worshippers.
Nag Nathaiya
NovemberA unique Varanasi festival enacting Lord Krishna's victory over the serpent Kalia, performed on boats in the Ganges near Tulsi Ghat.
💬Speak the Language
Hindi is written in Devanagari script. In Varanasi, the local dialect Bhojpuri is also widely spoken. English is understood at hotels and tourist-facing businesses but rarely in the old city lanes.
| English | Translation | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello / Greetings | नमस्ते | Na-ma-stay |
| Thank you | धन्यवाद / शुक्रिया | Dhan-ya-vaad / Shoo-kree-ya |
| Yes | हाँ | Haan |
| No | नहीं | Na-heen |
| How much does this cost? | यह कितने का है? | Yeh kit-nay ka hai? |
| Too expensive | बहुत महँगा है | Ba-hut me-hen-ga hai |
| Where is the ghat? | घाट कहाँ है? | Ghaat ka-haan hai? |
| I don't need a guide | मुझे गाइड नहीं चाहिए | Mu-jhay guide na-heen cha-hi-yay |
| Water | पानी | Paa-nee |
| Delicious | बहुत स्वादिष्ट | Ba-hut swa-disht |
| Please help me | कृपया मेरी मदद करें | Kri-pa-ya may-ree ma-dad ka-ren |
| Goodbye | अलविदा / फिर मिलेंगे | Al-vi-da / Phir mi-len-gay |
🛂Visa & Entry
Most foreign nationals require a visa to enter India. The e-Visa system makes it relatively straightforward for citizens of 160+ countries to apply online. Varanasi's Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS) is an approved e-Visa port of entry.
Entry Requirements by Nationality
| Nationality | Visa Required | Max Stay | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| US | Yes | 180 days (e-Tourist Visa) or 10 years (regular multiple-entry) | Apply for e-Visa online at least 4 days before travel. 30-day, 1-year, and 5-year e-Visa options available. |
| UK | Yes | 180 days per visit (e-Tourist Visa) | e-Visa available. Standard tourist visa allows multiple entries over 6 months to 10 years. |
| EU | Yes | 90 days (30-day e-Visa) or 180 days (1-year / 5-year e-Visa) | e-Visa available for all EU nationalities. Apply online 4+ days before departure. |
| Canada | Yes | 180 days per visit | e-Visa available. Regular tourist visa also available through Indian consulates. |
| Australia | Yes | 90 days (30-day e-Visa) or 180 days (1-year / 5-year e-Visa) | e-Visa is the easiest option. Apply at indianvisaonline.gov.in. |
Visa-Free Entry
Visa on Arrival
Tips
- •Apply for your e-Visa at least 4-7 days before your intended arrival. Processing typically takes 3-5 business days.
- •Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of arrival and have at least 2 blank pages.
- •The e-Visa requires a recent passport-size photo and a scan of your passport bio page.
- •Print your e-Visa approval before traveling — you will need to show it at immigration.
- •Keep a photocopy of your passport and visa separate from the originals while in India.
- •Register with the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) if staying longer than 180 days.