Varanasi
Varanasi, also known as Banaras or Kashi, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and holds immense cultural and spiritual significance in India. Situated on the banks of the sacred River Ganges in the state of Uttar Pradesh, Varanasi is regarded as the spiritual capital of India.
Spirituality and Religious Significance: Varanasi is considered one of the holiest cities in Hinduism, attracting pilgrims and seekers from all over the world. It is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva, and Hindus consider dying in Varanasi and being cremated on the ghats (steps leading to the river) as a path to salvation. The city is home to numerous temples, including the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, which is highly revered by devotees.
Ghats and the River Ganges: Varanasi is famous for its ghats, a series of steps leading to the banks of the River Ganges. The ghats are central to the spiritual and cultural fabric of the city. The Dashashwamedh Ghat is the most prominent and witnesses the famous Ganga Aarti (river worship ceremony) every evening. Taking a boat ride along the Ganges during sunrise or sunset is a popular activity, offering a glimpse into the daily rituals and ceremonies along the river.
Rituals and Ceremonies: Varanasi is known for its elaborate rituals and ceremonies performed along the ghats. Pilgrims come to the river to perform rituals like bathing in the holy water, offering prayers, and performing cremation ceremonies. The Ganga Aarti, mentioned earlier, is a mesmerizing spectacle where priests perform synchronized rituals with fire lamps and chant hymns, creating a divine atmosphere.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Varanasi depends on what you want to experience and your tolerance for various weather conditions.
Generally, the best time to visit Varanasi is during the cooler months from October to March. Here's a breakdown of the seasons and what to expect:
Winter (October to March): Winters are considered the best time to visit Varanasi. The weather is pleasant and ranges between 5°C to 20°C, making sightseeing and outdoor activities enjoyable. This period is also suitable for attending various religious ceremonies and festivals. The world-famous Ganga Aarti at the Dashashwamedh Ghat is a must-see. Two significant festivals during this period are Dev Deepavali (held on Kartik Purnima, usually in November) when all the Ghats of Varanasi are lit with lamps, and Maha Shivaratri (usually in February or March), a major festival in Varanasi dedicated to Lord Shiva. Remember that this is also the peak tourist season, so it can be crowded and hotel prices may be higher.
Summer (April to June): Summers in Varanasi are extremely hot, with temperatures reaching up to 45°C. If you don't mind the heat, you could consider visiting during this time as the city is less crowded. In the evening, you can enjoy a boat ride along the Ganges River when it's cooler. The important festival of Buddha Purnima, marking the birth of Gautama Buddha, usually falls in April or May and can be an interesting time to visit.
Monsoon (July to September): Varanasi receives moderate to heavy rainfall during the monsoon season. While the city's landscape turns lush and beautiful, the Ghats can get slippery and the Ganges often swells and can be dangerous. Sightseeing could be challenging due to the unpredictable showers. However, the month of August/September witnesses the celebration of Krishna Janmashtami (Lord Krishna's birthday), which is enthusiastically celebrated in the city.
How to Get There
Varanasi is well-connected to the rest of India and even to some international destinations, making it easily accessible by air, train, and road.
By Air: Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, located about 25 kilometers from the main city center, serves Varanasi. It is well-connected to major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata by regular flights. Some international flights also operate from this airport connecting to destinations like Kathmandu, Bangkok, and Colombo. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the city.
By Train: Varanasi is a major rail hub with two railway stations - Varanasi Junction (also known as Varanasi Cantt or BSB) and Manduadih Railway Station. These stations are well-connected to major cities across India. Some of the key trains include the Kashi Vishwanath Express (New Delhi to Varanasi), Shiv Ganga Express (New Delhi to Varanasi), and Vibhuti Express (Kolkata to Varanasi). Auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws, and taxis are readily available from the railway stations to different parts of the city.
By Road: Varanasi has a good network of roads and is connected to major cities of Uttar Pradesh and neighboring states. State-run and private buses operate regularly between Varanasi and other cities like Lucknow, Allahabad, and Gorakhpur. You can choose from ordinary, deluxe, or luxury buses depending on your preference.
Please note that if you're traveling to Varanasi from a country outside of India, you'll most likely need to travel by air, either directly to Varanasi's international airport or to a major gateway city in India like Delhi or Mumbai, and then take a domestic flight or train to Varanasi.
How to get Around
Getting around Varanasi can be quite an adventure due to its bustling streets and narrow lanes. Here are some of the most common ways to navigate the city:
Walking: Walking is the best way to explore the ancient city, particularly the labyrinthine alleys of the old city and the Ghats along the Ganges. It allows you to fully absorb the atmosphere, discover hidden temples, and experience local life.
Cycle Rickshaws and Auto Rickshaws: These are the most common modes of transportation in Varanasi for short to medium distances. Rickshaws are great for navigating through narrow lanes and for short rides within the city. Be sure to negotiate the fare before starting the journey.
Taxis/Cabs: Taxis are available but they can't access the narrow alleys of the old city. They are a good option if you want to visit the places located on the city outskirts or for airport transfers.
Boats: A boat ride in the Ganges is a quintessential Varanasi experience. Boats are a great way to see the Ghats, especially at sunrise or sunset. You can either hire a private boat or share one with others.
Public Buses: Varanasi has a public bus network that connects various parts of the city, but it can be crowded and routes might be confusing for tourists.
Bike Rentals: If you are comfortable riding in Indian traffic, you can rent a motorcycle or a bicycle to explore the city at your own pace.
E-Rickshaws: Recently, e-rickshaws have become quite popular in Varanasi. They are an economical and eco-friendly way to travel short distances.
App-based Cab Services: Ola and Uber operate in Varanasi and can be a convenient way to get around.
Most Popular Attractions and Activities to See and Do in Varanasi, India
Top 20 Attractions in Varanasi
Varanasi is an ancient city with a rich cultural and spiritual heritage. Here are some of the top attractions to explore when you visit:
Kashi Vishwanath Temple: This is one of the most important and oldest Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. It's considered a part of the twelve Jyotirlingas, making it a very sacred site.
Dasaswamedh Ghat: This is one of the most important and busiest Ghats in Varanasi. It's known for the grand evening Ganga Aarti ceremony which attracts a large number of devotees and tourists.
Manikarnika Ghat: This is the main cremation Ghat in Varanasi. It is a powerful place where you can witness Hindu funeral rites and understand the Hindu beliefs about life and death.
Assi Ghat: This Ghat is particularly important as the River Assi meets the River Ganges near it. It's a lively place filled with cultural activities and is also famous for the morning and evening Aartis.
Banaras Hindu University (BHU): It's one of the largest residential universities in Asia and is home to the Bharat Kala Bhavan museum where you can find a collection of Indian art.
Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple: This temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and is especially popular among devotees on Tuesdays and Saturdays, the traditional worship days of Lord Hanuman.
Ramnagar Fort: Located on the opposite bank of the Ganges, this fort offers a panoramic view of Varanasi. It houses a museum displaying the Royal collection which includes vintage cars, royal palkies, an armory of swords and old guns, ivory work and antique clocks.
Dhamek Stupa: Although it's actually located in nearby Sarnath, a visit to this important Buddhist site where Buddha gave his first sermon is usually included in a trip to Varanasi.
Tulsi Manas Temple: This modern temple is dedicated to Lord Rama. It is built at the place where Tulsidas, the author of the epic Ramcharitmanas, is believed to have written the epic.
Gyan Vapi Well: Located within the Gyanvapi Mosque, this well is believed to contain the original Shivalingam of the Kashi Vishwanath temple.
Chunar Fort: About 23 kilometers from Varanasi, this ancient fort provides an impressive view of the Ganges River and the surrounding countryside. It has a deep-rooted historical significance dating back to the time of the Mahabharata.
Alamgir Mosque: Overlooking Panchganga Ghat, this mosque, also known as Beni Madhav Ka Darera, is a blend of Hindu-Muslim architecture, and offers a panoramic view of the city and the river Ganges.
Jantar Mantar: An observatory built by Maharaja Jai Singh of Jaipur in 1737, it houses several masonry instruments to record the motion, speed and properties of stars and planets and study astronomy that are accurate and can still be used today.
Bharat Mata Temple: This is a unique temple dedicated to Mother India. Instead of a deity, it houses a relief map of India carved in marble.
Godowlia Market: This is the main market in Varanasi and a great place to explore, shop, and experience the hustle and bustle of the city.
New Vishwanath Temple/Birla Temple: Located within the premises of BHU, this modern temple, built by the Birla family, is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It's a replica of the original Kashi Vishwanath temple.
Nepali Temple: Also known as the 'Kathwala Temple', this unique temple is a replica of the Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu, Nepal. Its intricate wooden carvings are quite impressive.
Sarnath Archaeological Site: Located around 10 kilometers from Varanasi, Sarnath is where Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. The Archaeological Museum in Sarnath is home to several important Buddhist artifacts.
Man Mandir Observatory: Located near Dashashwamedh Ghat, this observatory was built by Maharaja Jai Singh II and houses ancient astronomical instruments.
Rana Mahal Ghat: This Ghat was built by a royal from Rajasthan in the late 18th century, and is among the most beautiful and elaborate Ghats of Varanasi. It's known for its splendid architecture that includes intricately carved windows and painted walls with murals that depict life in the royal era. Rana Mahal Ghat is particularly stunning during sunrise and sunset. Being a quieter Ghat, it's a perfect place to sit, relax, and take in the beauty of the River Ganges.
*A ghat is a flight of steps leading down to a river in India. Ghats are often used for bathing, religious ceremonies, and cremations. They are an important part of the Hindu culture and are found all over India, but they are especially concentrated in Varanasi.
Top 12 Activities in Varanasi
Varanasi is a city that teems with culture and spirituality. Here are some activities that you can indulge in when you visit:
Ganga Aarti: The evening Ganga Aarti at Dasaswamedh Ghat is a sight to behold. It is a grand ritual involving multiple priests performing an offering to River Ganges with fire and music. You can also attend the morning Aarti at Assi Ghat.
Boat Ride on the Ganges: Take a boat ride on the Ganges, preferably at sunrise, to see the Ghats, witness the city waking up, people bathing and performing rituals in the river. It is a serene experience.
Explore the Ghats: There are nearly 100 Ghats in Varanasi, each with a story. Walk along these Ghats, observe the activities, interact with locals, and absorb the culture.
Temple Visit: Visit some of the ancient temples, such as the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, and others to witness Hindu rituals and practices.
Visit Sarnath: Take a day trip to Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon after enlightenment. The Archaeological Museum here houses some significant Buddhist artifacts.
Try Local Cuisine: Varanasi's street food is famous. Don't miss out on local delights like Banarasi paan, chaat, lassi, and sweets like jalebi and rabri.
Explore Local Markets: Visit the bustling markets of Varanasi for shopping. Godowlia Market and Thatheri Bazaar are popular for silk sarees, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
Attend a Music Concert: Varanasi is a cultural hub, known for its music and dance. Attend a classical music or dance concert, often held in various venues around the city.
Explore the Old City: The winding narrow alleys of the old city hide many secrets. Explore these lanes to find ancient temples, ashrams, shops, and food joints.
Visit a Weaving Center: Varanasi is famous for its silk weaving, particularly Banarasi sarees. Visit a weaving center or a loom to see the weavers in action.
Learn Yoga or Meditation: With its spiritual ambiance, Varanasi is an ideal place to learn yoga or meditation. There are several ashrams and centers that offer courses or sessions for beginners and advanced practitioners.
Participate in a Workshop: Attend workshops or classes on Indian classical music, cooking, or even Hindi language offered by various institutions in the city.
Best Shopping
Varanasi is a shopper's paradise, especially for those interested in traditional Indian crafts, textiles, and religious items. Here's a list of some of the best shopping experiences the city has to offer:
Banarasi Sarees: Varanasi is world-renowned for its silk sarees, popularly known as Banarasi sarees. Intricately designed with gold or silver brocade (zari), these sarees are a must-buy. Visit the local markets or the weaving centers directly in the areas of Chowk, Vishwanath Gali, Thatheri Bazaar, and Gyan Vapi.
Hand-Knotted Carpets: Varanasi is known for its beautiful hand-knotted carpets. You can find these in various shops around the city.
Wooden Toys and Crafts: The city is also famous for its lacquerware and wooden toys. You can find a variety of these in the markets around Godowlia and Chowk.
Religious Items: As a spiritual center, Varanasi offers a range of religious items including Rudraksha beads, shawls, idols of Hindu deities, prayer accessories, and books on religion and spirituality.
Brassware: Brassware is another specialty of Varanasi. Beautifully crafted utensils, vases, statues, and other decorative items are widely available in the local markets.
Music Instruments: Being a hub for classical Indian music, Varanasi is a great place to buy traditional Indian musical instruments like the sitar, tabla, and harmonium.
Perfumes and Essential Oils: Varanasi is also known for its 'attars' or traditional Indian perfumes, and essential oils. You can buy these from perfume shops in Golghar and Godowlia Market.
Stone Carving and Beads: The nearby town of Chunar is famous for its sandstone carving. You can find beautifully carved items, from tiny trinkets to large statues. Bead necklaces made from semi-precious stones are also popular.
Spices and Tea: Varanasi also offers a variety of local spices and a wide range of tea. Visit local spice markets or shops to pick up some for your kitchen.
Street Shopping: The bustling street markets such as Godowlia Market, Thatheri Bazaar, Vishwanath Gali, and Dalmandi are perfect for exploring and shopping a variety of items including clothes, jewelry, handicrafts, leather products, and more.
Remember, bargaining is quite common in local markets, so don't hesitate to negotiate the price. Also, for expensive purchases like silk or brassware, be sure to shop from a reputable seller to ensure you're getting genuine goods.
Entertainment & Nightlife
Varanasi, being one of the oldest living cities in the world and a spiritual center, does not have a nightlife in the conventional sense with nightclubs or late-night party spots. However, it has its own unique offerings that make for enjoyable evening experiences:
Ganga Aarti: One of the most popular evening activities is the Ganga Aarti at Dasaswamedh Ghat. This grand ritual involves multiple priests performing an offering to River Ganges with large fire lamps, accompanied by rhythmic chants and ringing bells. The atmosphere is truly electric and is a must-see event.
Evening Boat Ride: An evening boat ride on the Ganges offers a different perspective of the city. You can see the Ghats lit up, witness religious ceremonies, and if the timing is right, you might also see the mesmerizing spectacle of the Ganga Aarti from the river.
Music and Dance Performances: Varanasi is a hub of Indian classical music and dance. You can often find concerts and performances happening in various locations around the city, especially at music schools, cultural centers, or even on some Ghats.
Stroll Along the Ghats: Simply taking a walk along the Ghats in the evening can be a wonderful experience. The Ghats are bustling with activities, with people performing rituals, vendors selling tea and snacks, and sometimes impromptu music performances.
Street Food: Trying out the local street food is another great evening activity. The streets are filled with vendors selling local delicacies like chaat, samosa, kachori, lassi, and sweets. Godowlia Market and Chowk are two popular areas to explore street food.
Local Shopping: Many local markets in Varanasi stay open till late in the evening. These markets are lively and vibrant, offering a range of products from clothing and jewelry to handicrafts and religious items.
Ashram Activities: If you're staying in or near an ashram, they often have evening activities that could include yoga or meditation sessions, spiritual discourses, or group prayers.
Rooftop Cafes and Restaurants: There are several cafes and restaurants, especially around the Assi Ghat area, which stay open till late. These places often offer a great view of the river and the city, and are a perfect place to relax, dine, and soak in the ambiance of Varanasi.
Varanasi is not a city that stays awake late into the night like metropolitan cities. It is a place that starts early with sunrise rituals on the Ghats, so it's common for people to retire relatively early.
Local Cuisine
Varanasi, also known as Banaras, is famous for its scrumptious street food and local delicacies. Here are some of the must-try items from the local cuisine:
Banarasi Paan: This iconic mouth-freshener, made of betel leaf filled with areca nut, fennel seeds, lime paste, and often sweetened with gulkand (rose petal jam) is an integral part of Varanasi’s culture. It is often consumed after meals.
Kachori Sabzi: This is a popular breakfast dish in Varanasi. It consists of crispy, fried dough balls (kachori) served with a spicy potato curry (sabzi).
Samosa: While samosas are found all over India, the ones in Varanasi are particularly famous. They're usually served with a side of sweet and sour tamarind chutney and spicy chickpea curry.
Chaat: Varanasi offers a wide variety of chaat, a type of street food that includes dishes like pani puri, aloo tikki, and papdi chaat. All these dishes are a mix of flavors and textures, and are a must-try.
Lassi: A creamy, yoghurt-based drink, lassi in Varanasi is usually served in clay pots and is a perfect refreshment for hot days. You can find it in various flavors, from sweet to savory, and even with fruit toppings.
Malaiyo: This is a winter delicacy of Varanasi. Malaiyo is made of milk froth flavored with cardamom and garnished with pistachios. It has a light, fluffy texture, almost like eating a cloud.
Rabri Jalebi: A popular dessert combination, it consists of Jalebi (a sweet made by deep-frying a wheat flour batter in pretzel or circular shapes, which are then soaked in sugar syrup) served with Rabri (a creamy, condensed milk-based dish).
Baati Chokha: A traditional dish of Varanasi, Baati Chokha includes baked dough balls served with a mix of spiced mashed potatoes and brinjal.
Thandai: A popular, refreshing drink made with a mix of nuts, spices, milk, and sugar. You can also get a version that includes bhang (cannabis), especially around the festival of Holi.
Banarasi Kalakand: A popular sweet dish, it's made from sweetened, solidified milk and cottage cheese.
The streets of Varanasi, especially around Godowlia Market and Chowk, are teeming with vendors selling these and many other delicacies.
Accommodations
Choosing where to stay in Varanasi can depend on what you want out of your visit. The city has different areas, each with its own vibe and attractions. Here are some popular areas to stay in Varanasi:
Assi Ghat: This area is very popular among tourists for its cultural vibrancy and proximity to the Ganges River. There are many guesthouses and hotels catering to all budgets. The area is full of restaurants, cafes, and shops. It is also a place where a lot of the city's cultural events, like music concerts, happen. Morning and evening aartis at Assi Ghat are particularly famous.
Dashashwamedh Ghat: This is the main ghat in Varanasi and is in the heart of the city. It is near the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple and the area is bustling with activity. Staying here means you'll be at the center of things, with easy access to boat rides, the famous Ganga Aarti, temples, and the labyrinth of shopping streets.
Godowlia: Located near Dashashwamedh Ghat, this is one of the busiest areas in Varanasi. Godowlia Market is one of the biggest markets in the city, and you can find almost anything you want here. There are plenty of hotels and restaurants in the area.
Cantonment Area/Mall Road: If you're looking for a more modern and less crowded part of the city, consider staying in the Cantonment area. This is where most of the city's high-end hotels are located. It's a bit further from the ghats and temples, but it's also less chaotic and more organized.
Bhelupur: This area is known for its silk weaving industry and is a great place to stay if you're interested in shopping for silk products. It's also home to the famous Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple.
Sigra: This is a more residential and modern part of the city, with a number of mid-range to luxury hotels, shopping malls, and restaurants. It's not far from the city center, making it a convenient place to stay.
