Plan Your Trip to Varanasi

Welcome to Varanasi

Planning a trip to Varanasi means preparing for an experience that is both spiritual and sensory. From arrival logistics to cultural etiquette, this guide offers international visitors everything they need to know for a smooth journey. Whether it’s your first trip to India or a return visit, Varanasi offers sights, sounds, and rituals that stay with you forever.

1. How to Reach Varanasi

By Air: Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS), about 20 km from the city center, connects Varanasi with Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and international hubs like Bangkok, Kathmandu, and Colombo.

By Train: Varanasi Junction and Manduadih Railway Station are major railheads with excellent connectivity to all parts of India.

By Road: Highways link Varanasi to Lucknow (5 hrs), Allahabad/Prayagraj (3 hrs), Bodh Gaya (5 hrs), and other cities.

2. Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit is October to March, when the weather is cool and festivals like Dev Deepawali, Mahashivratri, and Holi take place. Summer (April–June) can be extremely hot, while monsoons (July–September) bring heavy rains and swollen rivers.

3. Where to Stay

Accommodation in Varanasi ranges from luxury hotels overlooking the Ganga to budget hostels near the ghats:

BrijRama Palace – A heritage hotel right on the ghats.
Hotel Surya – Colonial-style property with modern comfort.
Zostel & Moustache Hostels – Great for backpackers.
Homestays in Assi – Offer cultural immersion with local families.

4. Getting Around the City

Varanasi is best explored on foot and by boat. The lanes of the old city are narrow, often navigable only by walking. Auto-rickshaws, cycle rickshaws, and taxis are widely available for longer distances. Sunrise boat rides along the ghats are essential for visitors.

5. Safety & Travel Tips

Wear modest clothing when visiting temples and ghats.
Respect local customs, especially around cremation ghats like Manikarnika.
Drink bottled water and try street food from popular, busy vendors.
Always agree on rickshaw/taxi fares in advance or use ride-hailing apps.
Be cautious with monkeys near temples – they may grab food or belongings.

6. Cultural Etiquette

Varanasi is deeply spiritual. Respectful behavior ensures positive interactions:

Remove footwear before entering temples.
Photography at cremation ghats is discouraged.
Always ask before photographing locals.
Public displays of affection are frowned upon in sacred areas.

7. Suggested Itinerary

Day 1: Morning boat ride, Kashi Vishwanath Temple, explore old city lanes.
Day 2: Sarnath excursion, evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh.
Day 3: Ramnagar Fort, BHU campus, shopping for Banarasi silk.
Day 4: Yoga at Assi Ghat, cultural performances, hidden gems exploration.

8. Map of Varanasi

Use this interactive map to locate major attractions, ghats, hotels, and transport hubs around Varanasi.

Plan with Ease, Travel with Heart

With this guide, you can plan your Varanasi journey with confidence. From the moment you arrive to your last walk along the ghats, the city will offer a blend of serenity, devotion, and discovery that is unlike anywhere else on earth.