Varanasi Travel Guide
Varanasi, also known as Banaras or Kashi, is one of the oldest and most culturally significant cities in India. Located in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh, Varanasi is often referred to as the “Spiritual Capital of India” and holds a special place in the hearts of millions of Hindus.
How To Reach Varanasi –
Varanasi boasts excellent connectivity with major cities across the country through all three primary modes of transportation. However, the most recommended way to reach Varanasi is by railway.
By Air: Varanasi is served by its own airport, Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport, formerly known as Varanasi Airport. This airport facilitates connections to various major Indian cities and even operates international flights. Upon arrival, travelers can easily hire taxis for their onward journey. For international tourists, the airport is the preferred gateway to Varanasi.
By Rail: Varanasi is equipped with its bustling railway station, Varanasi Junction, which stands as one of the busiest railway hubs in Uttar Pradesh. Daily trains link the city to virtually every corner of the country. To reach your final destination within Varanasi, you can opt for local buses or hire a taxi. With the extensive reach of the Indian Rail Network, Varanasi becomes easily accessible from all parts of the country, making it the most convenient mode of reaching the city.
By Road: Both private and government-run bus services operate routes to Varanasi from major cities in Uttar Pradesh and neighboring regions. Cities like Allahabad, Patna, Ranchi, Lucknow, and Gorakhpur offer bus connections to Varanasi. The well-maintained roads and national highways also provide an option for those who prefer to drive to Varanasi themselves.
Best Time To Visit In Varanasi –
Varanasi, the historic city, attracts a significant number of tourists throughout the year. However, the winter season is widely regarded as the ideal time to explore Varanasi due to its delightful weather conditions.
Summer: Starting in April, Varanasi experiences a hot and humid summer season, with temperatures ranging from 32°C to 46°C. Despite the challenging weather, many tourists still visit the city during this period. The summer season comes to an end in June.
Monsoon: As June gives way to July, Varanasi welcomes the monsoon season, which lasts until September. The rainfall during this period brings relief from the heat, leading to a slight drop in temperatures. However, this is when tourism in the city reaches its lowest point.
Winter: The peak season for visiting Varanasi is winter, spanning from November to March. During this time, the city enjoys cool and pleasant weather, making it ideal for tourists to explore the region. In winter, the temperature in Varanasi can drop as low as 5°C.
Best Places To Visit In Varanasi –
Let’s embark on a journey of the holy city of Varanasi and show you some of the best places to see.
Best Religious Places to Visit in Varanasi –
- New Vishwanath Temple
- Kathwala Temple
- Kashi Vishwanath/ Golden Temple
- Tulsi Manas Temple
- Monkey Temple
- Bharat Mata Temple
- Alamgir Mosque
- Parshvanath Jain Temple
- Kalbhairav Temple
Popular Ghats to Visit in Varanasi
- Dasaswamedh Ghat
- Assi Ghat
- Manikarnika Ghat
- Manmandir Ghat
- Shivala Ghat
- Harishchandra Ghat
- Tulsi Ghat
- Dharbhanga Ghat
- Scindia Ghat
- Ahilyabai Ghat
- Lalita Ghat
- Rana Mahal Ghat
- Chausatthi Ghat
- Panchganga Ghat
Must Visit Historical Sites in Varanasi
- Gyan Vapi Well
- Bharat Kala Bhawan Museum
- Ramnagar Fort
Top Destinations to Visit Nearby Varanasi
- Sarnath
- Prayagraj
- Kaushambi
- Ayodhya
- Betla National Park
- Bodhgaya
- Nalanda
Quick Information and Facts on Varanasi Tourism
Famous Landmark Destination of Varanasi | Kashi Vishwanath Temple |
Best Time to Visit Varanasi | January to March and October to December |
Major Festivals of Varanasi | Dhrupad Music Festival and Ganga Mahotsav (November) and Nag Nathaiya Festival |
Best Thing to Shop in Varanasi | Banarasi Silk- It is a worldwide famous product of Varanasi. |
Famous Shopping Places | Thatheri Bazaar, Vishwanath Lane, Godowlia Market, Golghar, Dal Mandi Market, Rajan Silk Market |
Best Cuisines and Street Foods of Varanasi | Kachori Sabzi, Safed Makhan Toast, Thandai, Laaiya Chana, Chooda Matar,Baati Chokha, Malaiyyo, Tamatar Chaat, Banarasi Paan |
Popular Ghats of Varanasi | Dasaswamedh Ghat, Panchganga Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, Assi Ghat, Chet Singh Ghat, Tulsi Ghat, Manmandir Ghat, Scindia Ghat, Lalita Ghat |