About Varanasi Travel Guide
Destination Overview – Varanasi
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Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Banaras, is one of the oldest living cities in the world and the spiritual heart of India. Nestled on the banks of the sacred River Ganga, this city is a melting pot of religion, culture, rituals, and eternal spirituality. Pilgrims come here to attain moksha (liberation) and experience the divine energy of the ghats, temples, and rituals.
Top Attractions & Places to Visit
Spiritual & Cultural Sites:
Kashi Vishwanath Temple – One of the 12 Jyotirlingas, dedicated to Lord Shiva
Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple – Revered shrine of Lord Hanuman
Tulsi Manas Mandir – Site where Ramcharitmanas was composed
Bharat Mata Mandir – Temple dedicated to Mother India
Ghats & Ganga Views:
Dashashwamedh Ghat – Famous for evening Ganga Aarti
Manikarnika Ghat – Sacred cremation ghat symbolizing life and death
Assi Ghat – Cultural and peaceful, popular among youth and spiritual seekers
Panchganga & Harishchandra Ghat – Historical and religiously significant
Museums & Culture:
Ramnagar Fort – Royal museum with vintage artifacts and costumes
Bharat Kala Bhavan – Art and sculpture museum at BHU
Banaras Hindu University (BHU) – One of India’s oldest and largest universities
Kabir Math – Dedicated to saint-poet Kabir Das
Best Time to Visit
October to March – Pleasant winter ideal for sightseeing
April to June – Very hot, but fewer crowds
July to September – Monsoon makes ghats picturesque but slippery
How to Reach
By Air: Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport (20 km from city)
By Train: Varanasi Junction and Kashi Railway Station
By Road: Well-connected via NH2, NH7 from nearby cities
Accessibility for Differently-Abled Travelers
Wheelchair access is limited at ghats due to stairs
Major temples and newer hotels offer better accessibility
E-rickshaws available near ghats for closer drop-off points
Things to Do & Experiences
Attend the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat
Take a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges
Explore the narrow alleys of the old city
Visit the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor
Try a yoga or spiritual retreat along the ghats
Witness cremation rituals at Manikarnika Ghat (respectfully)
Take a heritage walk or food tour in the chowk area
Accommodation Options
Luxury:
BrijRama Palace – Heritage hotel on Darbhanga Ghat
Taj Ganges – Premium comfort with lush surroundings
Radisson Hotel Varanasi – Trusted upscale chain
Mid-Range:
Ganpati Guest House – Ghat view with local flavor
Palace on Ganges – Boutique hotel near Assi Ghat
Hotel Surya Kaiser Palace – Heritage style stay
Budget:
Zostel Varanasi – Backpacker-friendly, social vibe
Wander Station – Modern amenities near ghats
Shiva Guest House – Budget stay with rooftop views
Local Cuisine & Dining
Must Try:
Kachori Sabzi, Tamatar Chaat, Baati Chokha, Thandai, Malaiyyo (in winter)
Banarasi Paan – Cultural icon
Top Food Spots:
Kashi Chaat Bhandar – Iconic for spicy and tangy chaat
Blue Lassi Shop – Famous for fruit-laced lassis
Baati Chokha Restaurant – Traditional Eastern UP cuisine
Deena Chat Bhandar & Pizzeria Vaatika Café (Assi Ghat) – Indian & Italian fusion
Travel Tips & Safety
Wear modest clothing, especially near temples and ghats
Don’t photograph cremation ghats – it’s sacred and must be respected
Use government-approved guides or trusted apps for heritage walks
Carry cash – many small shops don’t accept cards
Beware of pickpockets in crowded areas
Weather & Packing Suggestions
Winter (Oct–Feb): Light woolens, shawl, comfortable shoes
Summer (Apr–Jun): Cotton clothes, sunscreen, cap
Monsoon (Jul–Sep): Umbrella, waterproof shoes, avoid slippery ghats
Currency & Connectivity
ATMs available across the city
Digital payments and UPI accepted in most cafes, hotels
Internet cafés & mobile 4G services (Jio, Airtel) are reliable
Suggested Itinerary
3N/4D Sample Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival → Visit Kashi Vishwanath → Boat ride & evening Aarti
Day 2: Sarnath excursion → Museum → Buddhist Stupa → Return for Assi Ghat sunset
Day 3: Explore ghats & temples → Ramnagar Fort → BHU campus
Day 4: Shopping for Banarasi silk → Local food tour → Depart
Shopping & Souvenirs
Banarasi Sarees & Silk Fabrics
Wooden toys, Rudraksha malas, Brass idols
Handwoven carpets, Mango pickles, Musical instruments (tabla, sitar)
Best Markets: Godowlia, Chowk, Vishwanath Lane, Thatheri Bazaar
Cultural & Historical Background
Varanasi is said to be founded by Lord Shiva himself, making it the holiest of the seven sacred cities (Sapta Puri). It has been a center of learning, spirituality, music, and philosophy for over 3000 years. Saints like Kabir, Tulsi Das, and Gautam Buddha have deep connections with the city. It is believed that dying here grants moksha (liberation from rebirth).
Local Transport Options
E-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws for short distances
Taxis & cabs (Ola available) for longer commutes
Boats (manual or motor) for Ganga rides
Walking is the best way to explore inner alleys and ghats
Nearest Railway Station
Varanasi Junction (BSB) – Major hub for all India trains
Kashi Station & Manduadih – Alternate nearby options
Sarnath Station – For travelers heading to/from the Buddhist site
FAQs About Varanasi Tour
Is Varanasi only for religious travelers?
No, it attracts spiritual seekers, history lovers, photographers, and foodies too.
Can I take a dip in the Ganga?
Yes, at designated ghats like Assi and Dashashwamedh. Do check water conditions.
Are non-Hindus allowed in temples?
Some temples allow all, but Kashi Vishwanath is for Hindus only inside sanctum.
Is Varanasi safe for solo female travelers?
Yes, mostly safe. Stick to known areas and avoid late-night walks in isolated lanes.
Sustainability & Responsible Tourism
Respect ghats and avoid littering – especially plastics
Support local artisans (Banarasi weavers, wooden toy makers)
Avoid loud behavior at cremation ghats
Choose eco-certified accommodations
Join community cleanups or heritage walks
