There are cities you visit, and then there’s Varanasi a place that meets your soul before it meets your eyes. Known as Kashi or Banaras, this city by the sacred Ganges is believed to be older than history, as said by Mark Twain. Varanasi isn’t just a destination it’s a journey through spirituality, time, tradition, and transformation.
Whether you’re a pilgrim seeking moksha, a photographer chasing light and emotion, or a traveler searching for depth, Varanasi welcomes everyone with folded hands and a million stories. Here’s a complete guide on what to do, when to visit, why it matters, and how to explore the Spiritual Capital of India.
Why Visit Varanasi?
Varanasi is unlike any other place in India.
It’s spiritual yet chaotic, ancient yet vibrant, intense yet peaceful. This city is not just a religious hub it’s an emotional experience.
- Witnessing the Ganga Aarti at sunset is not just a ritual, it’s a spectacle of devotion.
- Taking a boat ride at dawn along the ghats shows your life unfolding in its purest form—from morning prayers to cremations.
- Walking through its narrow gullies introduces you to centuries of culture, art, music, and street food.
- And above all, Varanasi reminds you that life and death coexist here, side by side, with grace and acceptance.
Best Time to Visit Varanasi
Varanasi has a humid subtropical climate, and choosing the right season makes a big difference in your experience.
- October to March (Winter): The most pleasant time to visit. Clear skies, breezy mornings, and ideal weather for boat rides and temple visits. The Dev Deepawali festival in November is a magical time when the ghats are lit with thousands of diyas.
- July to September (Monsoon): The city gets lush and the river rises. Spiritual charm remains, but expect occasional travel delays due to rain.
- April to June (Summer): Hot and humid. If you don’t mind the heat, you’ll find fewer tourists and a slower pace of life.
How to Reach Varanasi
By Air:
Varanasi Airport (Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport) connects well with Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and other major cities. It’s around 25 km from the city center.
By Train:
Varanasi Junction is one of the busiest and well-connected railway stations in India. Trains run from almost every region, making it budget-friendly and accessible.
By Road:
You can also drive or take a bus from nearby cities like Allahabad, Lucknow, or Patna. National highways are fairly smooth.
Getting Around:
Auto-rickshaws, cycle rickshaws, and e-rickshaws are common. Walking is often the best way to explore the inner parts of the old city and Ghats.
Top Things to Do in Varanasi
1. Early Morning Boat Ride on the Ganges
Start your day before sunrise with a peaceful boat ride along the river. Watch as the city awakens priests performing rituals, locals bathing, and the sun rising behind the temples. It’s magical and meditative.
2. Witness the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat
Held every evening around 6:30 PM, this grand spiritual ceremony features chanting, conch shells, fire lamps, and rhythmic movements. It’s both sacred and cinematic.
3. Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple
One of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, this temple is deeply revered. Expect security checks and queues, but the energy inside is worth the wait.
4. Explore the Ghats (Steps to the River)
Each ghat has its story Manikarnika Ghats is where cremations take place, symbolizing liberation, while Assi Ghat is a favorite among locals and students. Walk along the ghats to feel the city’s pulse.
5. Stroll Through the Old City
Lose yourself in the labyrinthine alleys lined with street vendors, cows, temples, and old homes. Don’t miss trying Banarasi paan, blue lassi, and picking up Banarasi silk sarees.
6. Experience Live Classical Music or Sitar Performances
Varanasi is the birthplace of legends like Pandit Ravi Shankar. Attend an evening classical recital or a rooftop session near the ghats for a soulful evening.
7. Visit Sarnath – The Place Where Buddha Gave His First Sermon
Located just 10 km from Varanasi, Sarnath is peaceful, historic, and home to ruins of Buddhist stupas, a museum, and the famous Ashoka Pillar.
8. Savor Local Food
- Kachori-sabzi for breakfast
- Tamatar chaat at Kashi Chaat Bhandar
- Rabri, Malaiyo (in winter), and Jalebi for your sweet tooth
- And of course, Banarasi Paan to complete every meal
Tips to Make the Most of Your Varanasi Trip
- Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples and ghats.
- Respect the rituals and photography rules during cremations.
- Wake up early the city is most alive at dawn.
- Hire a local guide if you’re interested in the deeper myths and history.
- Avoid non-licensed boatmen go with verified services for safety.
In Conclusion
Varanasi isn’t about sightseeing it’s about soul-seeing.
It’s a city that doesn’t entertain you it awakens something within you. It may overwhelm you at first, but as the days pass, you’ll find peace in its chaos, rhythm in its rituals, and stories in its silences.
If there’s one city in India that teaches you how to live, and equally, how to let go it’s Varanasi.
So the next time you plan a trip not just for adventure but for depth and meaning, put Varanasi at the top of your list.