Varanasi, often called the “Spiritual Capital of India,” is a city unlike any other. Known as Kashi in ancient texts and Benares during the colonial era, this sacred city on the banks of the Ganges is one of the oldest living cities in the world. While many come to witness the Ganga Aarti and the grand Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Varanasi offers much more – authentic food, vibrant festivals, hidden alleys, and a unique atmosphere where life and death coexist.
This in-depth guide is tailored for international travelers and explores all aspects of Varanasi – from how to get there to what to wear, where to eat, and how to stay safe.
Understanding Varanasi
Located in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, Varanasi is one of Hinduism’s seven holy cities. Its cultural and spiritual legacy dates back over 3,000 years. The city is built along the western bank of the Ganges and is known for its ghats (stone steps along the river), where religious rituals, bathing, and cremations take place.
The city’s history is steeped in mythology, learning, music, and spirituality. Saints, poets, and scholars such as Kabir, Tulsidas, and Ravidas walked these very streets.
Getting to Varanasi
By Air
- Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS): Located about 25 km from the city center, with flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and international connections via major Indian cities.
By Train
- Varanasi Junction (BSB) and Manduadih (MUV): Well-connected to Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and other key cities.
By Road
- NH19 and NH31: Link Varanasi to nearby cities such as Prayagraj, Patna, and Gorakhpur.
- Private cabs and buses: Easily available from neighboring cities and airports.
Navigating Around Varanasi
- Cycle rickshaws and auto-rickshaws: Best for short distances in the old city.
- E-rickshaws: Eco-friendly and common.
- Boat rides: Ideal for viewing the ghats—available for sunrise, sunset, and evening Aarti sessions.
- Walking: Many parts of the old city are pedestrian-only or too narrow for vehicles.
Must-Visit Attractions
Kashi Vishwanath Temple
- Timings: 4:00 AM to 11:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free (donation-based for special darshans)
- Note: Security is tight. Bags, cameras, and electronics are not allowed inside.
Dashashwamedh Ghat & Ganga Aarti
- Timings: Aarti begins at 7:00 PM daily
- Highlights: A mesmerizing ritual with fire, chants, and lamps by the Ganges
Sarnath
- Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹50 (Indians), ₹200 (Foreigners)
- Highlights: Where Buddha gave his first sermon
Manikarnika Ghat
- One of the main cremation sites; a powerful glimpse into the Hindu cycle of life and death.
Ramnagar Fort
- Timings: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹20 (Indians), ₹150 (Foreigners)
- Highlights: Museum with vintage artifacts; residence of the royal family
Nepali Temple (Kathwala Temple)
- A wooden temple built in traditional Nepali style near Lalita Ghat
Offbeat Experiences
- Bharat Kala Bhavan (BHU Campus): An excellent museum of art and history
- Assi Ghat Morning Subah-e-Banaras Program: Music, yoga, and prayers at sunrise
- Walk through Vishwanath Gali and Thatheri Bazaar: Experience local life and shop for souvenirs
Best Places to Eat
- Ram Bhandar (Thatheri Bazaar): For local breakfast—kachori sabzi and jalebi
- Blue Lassi Shop (Near Manikarnika Ghat): Over 80 lassi flavors served in clay cups
- Deena Chaat Bhandar: For tangy street food like tamatar chaat
- Baati Chokha (Teliyabagh): Authentic regional thali in a rustic setting
- Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe (Assi Ghat): Italian food with a Ganges view
Snacks to try: Malaiyo (winter delicacy), Banarasi paan, rabri, and peda
Nightlife and Evening Experiences
- Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat: The spiritual highlight of your visit
- Evening boat rides: View the city lights and hear the distant chants from temples
- Live classical music: Often held at cultural centers or by the ghats
- Rooftop cafes: Relax with a view and soft music – try Brown Bread Bakery and Open Hand Cafe
Shopping in Varanasi
- Banarasi Silk Sarees: Found in Vishwanath Gali and Chowk area
- Brassware and puja items: Thatheri Bazaar
- Meenakari jewelry: Lahurabir and Chowk
- Wooden toys, lac bangles, essential oils: Godowlia Market
Tip: Bargaining is expected in local markets.
Festivals & Celebrations
- Dev Deepawali (November): The ghats are lit with thousands of lamps
- Maha Shivratri: A massive event at Kashi Vishwanath Temple
- Ganga Mahotsav: Five-day cultural event with performances and crafts
- Holi: Celebrated with intense colors and music
- Ramleela at Ramnagar: A traditional enactment of the Ramayana
Government Safety Measures for Foreign Tourists
Tourist Police & Helplines
- Tourist Police are present at major sites
- 24/7 Helpline: 1363 (multi-language support)
- Women’s safety helpline: 1091
CCTV Surveillance & Security Checks
- Ghats, temples, and public spaces are monitored
- Bag checks at temples and railway stations
Prepaid Taxis & Government-Approved Guides
- Use prepaid services at airport/rail stations
- Insist on identity-verified tour guides
Tourist Assistance Centers
- Located at Dashashwamedh Ghat and the railway stations
- Provide help in case of emergency, loss, or confusion
Women-Centric Services
- Women-only autos available
- Pink Patrol (female police teams) around tourist areas
What to Wear in Varanasi
Varanasi is a conservative city. Dressing modestly not only shows respect but also ensures comfort.
For Men & Women:
- Loose cotton clothes (shirts, tunics, trousers, or full-length skirts)
- Sandals or walking shoes
- Hat, scarf, and sunglasses for sun protection
For Women:
- Long skirts, dresses, or salwar-kameez
- Avoid tank tops, short skirts, or tight clothing
- Carry a scarf to cover your head when entering temples
Best Time to Visit
- October to March: Pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing and festivals
- April to June: Very hot; less crowded
- July to September: Rainy season; lush but with occasional flooding
Conclusion
Varanasi is a journey into India’s spiritual, cultural, and philosophical depths. Whether you’re gazing at the sunrise over the Ganges, sipping lassi in a 100-year-old shop, or standing at Manikarnika Ghat absorbing life’s fragility, the city moves you in ways few places can.
This detailed guide helps you explore Varanasi beyond the clichés-authentically and safely. With the right mindset and a bit of planning, your visit to Varanasi can be one of the most enriching travel experiences of your life.
Inspired to see it for yourself? Plan your trip to Varanasi with Experencia India and discover the soul of India, one ghat at a time.
