Varanasi India

Ultimate Travel Guide to Varanasi, India

Overview

Varanasi (also known as Banaras or Kashi) is one of the oldest cities in the world, located on the banks of the holy Ganges River in Uttar Pradesh, India. This spiritual city attracts millions of tourists and pilgrims every year due to its rich history, cultural significance, and unique traditions.

Places to Visit

  1. Ghats: Varanasi is famous for its ghats (steps leading to the river). The most popular ones are Dashashwamedh Ghat, Assi Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, and Harishchandra Ghat. Don’t miss the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat in the evening.
  2. Vishwanath Temple: This is one of the holiest temples dedicated to Lord Shiva.
  3. Sarnath: Just 10 kilometers from Varanasi, Sarnath is where Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. Visit the Deer Park Museum and Dhamek Stupa.
  4. Ramnagar Fort: This 18th-century fort houses a museum with an impressive collection of old coins, weapons, and royal garments.
  5. Mithila Art Galleries: Explore the intricate Mithila paintings in various galleries around the city.

Activities

  1. Boat Ride: Early morning or evening boat ride on the Ganges is a must for witnessing the spiritual activities and breathtaking sunrise/sunset.
  2. Aarti Ceremony: Watch the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremonies at various ghats in the evening.
  3. Meditation Classes: Learn meditation from local gurus or visit the International Academy of Yoga.
  4. Explore Local Markets: Browse through Banaras Hindu University’s Bharat Kala Bhavan, Thatheri Bazaar for traditional silk sarees, and Chowk for local spices, silver jewelry, and lanterns.

Where to Eat

  1. Kachori Gali: Try Varanasi’s famous kachoris at this street food market.
  2. Blue Lasso: A trendy rooftop café offering international cuisine with a view of the Ganges.
  3. Brown Bread Bakery: Serves delicious pizzas, pastas, and sandwiches in a cozy ambiance.
  4. Shree Thulsi Restaurant: Offers vegetarian thalis showcasing local dishes.

Where to Stay

  1. Taj Ganges: Luxury hotel offering stunning views of the Ganges.
  2. Ahilya by the River: Boutique heritage property with personalized service.
  3. Banaras Khana Hotel: Affordable and centrally located budget hotel.
  4. Riverside guesthouses: Many small guest houses line the ghats, offering simple yet comfortable accommodation with river views.

Things to Know

  1. Dress modestly when visiting temples and respect local customs.
  2. Bargain at markets and beware of pickpockets in crowded areas.
  3. Always negotiate taxi fares before starting the journey.
  4. Carry enough cash as credit cards are not widely accepted everywhere.
  5. Stay aware of your surroundings, especially during nighttime.

Transportation

  1. Airport: Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport in Varanasi is well-connected to major Indian cities and some international destinations.
  2. Train: Varanasi Junction (BSB) is one of the busiest railway stations in India, connecting the city to all major cities across the country.
  3. Local Transport: Auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws are common for short distances within the city. For longer journeys, hire taxis or take local buses.

Tips

  1. Carry a water bottle as tap water is not safe to drink.
  2. Avoid eating street food immediately after arriving in Varanasi to avoid any stomach issues.
  3. Carry a good quality mosquito repellent, especially during the monsoon season.
  4. Try to visit during festivals like Diwali, Holi, or Mahashivratri for an even more enriching experience.
  5. Lastly, embrace the chaos and soak in the spiritual energy of Varanasi - it’s an experience like no other!