Varanasi, nestled on the banks of India’s sacred Ganga river, is a city like no other. This mystical metropolis is known by many names – Varanasi, Kashi, and Banaras. Each reveals its ancient history intertwined with spirituality.
Also hailed as India’s cultural capital, Kashi has spellbound visitors for millennia. From the ghats with funeral pyres burning round the clock to the famed Ganga aartis, learn how you too can soak in Varanasi’s glorious chaos on your visit.
History and Significance of Varanasi
Mythology says Varanasi was founded by Lord Shiva 5,000 years ago, making it one of the oldest living cities in the world.
Known as the city of temples, it is believed those who die here attain moksha or freedom from the cycle of life and death. Many Hindus travel to Kashi to spend their final days here, making it a city intimately acquainted with mortality.
Over 2,000 temples scatter Kashi’s streets. Most prominent is the gold-topped Kashi Vishwanath temple, one of 12 revered Jyotirlingas shrines of Lord Shiva. The temple’s history traces back to the 2nd century BC.
How to Reach Varanasi
By air: Varanasi airport is connected to major metros like Delhi and Mumbai. Cabs to the city center cost ₹750-850.
By train: Varanasi Junction and Kashi station connect to all major Indian cities. The two stations are 5km apart.
By road: National highways link Varanasi to Kanpur, Lucknow, Patna and Guwahati among others. Luxury buses frequently shuttle between Varanasi and Delhi, Agra etc.
Best Time to Visit
October to March is ideal to visit Varanasi. Temperatures are enjoyable and you can attend colorful festivals like Dev Deepawali and Magh Mela. Summers can get unbearably hot. July brings pounding monsoon rains that flood the ghats.
Top Things to Do in Varanasi
Soak in history and spirituality by the cremation ghats
Start your Kashi sojourn by walking along the ghats early morning when the river comes alive with Hindu rituals of bathing, meditation, yoga and more. Of 84 ghats lining Varanasi’s crescent-shaped riverfront, Manikarnika and Harishchandra host round-the-clock cremations while Dashashwamedh ghat with its stunning Ganga aarti is most popular with tourists.
Behold the resplendent Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Varanasi’s most important and oldest living temple, the legendary Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirlinga stands as a towering example of Kashi’s timeless spiritual history. Marvel at the temple’s 60-feet high gold spires and intricate stone carvings from the outside before joining the queue leading up to the inner sanctum housing the main Jyotirlinga shrine.
Shop for silk Saris and ethnic accessories
A stroll through Vishwanath Gali lined with colorful sari shops is a must. Other popular buys are hand-knotted Benarasi silk carpets, gold-threaded brocades, brassware, wooden toys and stone sculptures of Hindu deities crafted by local artisans.
Revel in tranquility at Buddhist sites
Just 18 km from Kashi lies Sarnath where Buddha first preached his message of enlightenment. Atmospheric ruins here include the majestic Dhamek Stupa and the adorned Mulgandha Kuti. Don’t miss the striking Thai Buddha temple nearby.
Treat your sweet tooth with Kashi chaat
Indulge yourself at Varanasi’s chaat hotspots whipping up melt-in-the-mouth flavors. Try signature dishes like tamatar chaat, dahi chat made from curd, pani puri and the refreshing thandai cold beverage. Order hot samosas or kachoris paired best with sweet jalebis!
Watch traditional Ramleela performances
During the festival Navratri before Dussehra, the streets of Varanasi come alive with music and dance celebrating Lord Rama’s victory over demon king Ravana depicted in the epic Ramayana. Catch a local Ramleela performance recounting this legendary tale.
Where to Stay in Varanasi
With accommodation options galore, Kashi offers places to stay suiting all budgets and needs. Stay near the main Dashashwamedh Ghat for maximum convenience.
Luxury: Taj Gateway on the Ganges blends fine hospitality with awesome river views. Mid-range: Meraden Grand showcases contemporary decor while Hotel Surya is renowned for impeccable service. Budget: GoStops and Joey’s Hostel offer hip dorm rooms for backpackers and solo travelers on a shoestring budget.
Kashi allures with its magnificent ghats and timeless rituals guaranteed to awaken your senses. Let Varanasi’s devout vibe, ancient heritage, and holy Ganga slowly work their magic on you!
Safety Tips for Varanasi
- Avoid walking alone late night at deserted alleys or ghats. Stick to well lit, busy areas.
- Beware of touts at the main ghats who try to trick tourists into overpriced boat rides or shopping at certain stores.
- Only consume bottled water and get immunizations done before your trip.
- Keep valuables in hotel locker and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or expensive jewelry while sightseeing.
- Always check for administration rates before hiring autos/boats to avoid getting ripped off.
- In monsoons walk carefully at slippery ghat steps and avoid swimming in the Ganges due to undercurrents.
- Follow your hotel/guesthouse rules, local etiquette and dress appropriately at religious sites in Varanasi.
Where to Stay in Varanasi
Varanasi has a range of stay options – from luxury hotels to cheap guesthouses and hostels.
Near Ghats/Temples: Staying near the ghats like Dashashwamedh Ghat or Kedar Ghat allows you to experience the evening Ganga Aarti and also walk to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple easily. Some popular areas are Godaulia, Assi Ghat, Jalim Singh Ghat, Chowk area.
Cantonment Area: The New Cantt and Siddhgiri areas have more upscale hotels away from the crowded old city. The area near Banaras Hindu University (BHU) also has lots of accommodation options for all budgets.
Ashrams: You can also choose to stay in one of the ashrams in Varanasi which offer a peaceful ambiance alongside yoga and meditation programs. Some popular options are International Guest House (Sarnath), Phool Wala Ashram (near Assi Ghat), Durga Guest House (near Tulsi Ghat).
Ghats: Many ghats like Munshi, Raja, Scindia, Tulsi etc also offer accommodation right on the Ganges bank which provides a unique experience.
How Many Days to Spend in Varanasi
To properly experience Varanasi, I would recommend spending at least 2 full days here. The highlights can be covered in 2 days but if you have more time, extend your stay to 4-5 days. Here’s a suggested itinerary for Varanasi:
- Day 1: Visit Dashashwamedh Ghat, take a boat ride at sunrise, walk around old city streets, visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple and watch Ganga Aarti.
- Day 2: Visit ghats like Assi, Hanuman, Harishchandra, Manikarnika, explore Sarnath Day excursion.
- Day 3: Shop for Banarasi sarees/textiles, take weaving & cooking classes, watch Ram Leela or Bharat Milap plays in evenings.
- Day 4: Go on a day trip to nearby towns like Sarnath, Chunar, Ayodhya or Bodhgaya.
- Day 5: Relax at ashrams, enjoy yoga/meditation sessions, get spa therapies or watch a traditional dance performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do people cremate their dead in Varanasi?
It is believed cremating loved ones in Varanasi’s sacred waters guarantees them freedom from the cycle of rebirth. Many Hindus thus travel here to spend their final days and attain moksha or salvation.
How safe is Varanasi for solo female travelers?
While relatively safe, exercise caution like in any other Indian city. Avoid deserted areas at night, cover up appropriately and don’t indulge overly friendly strangers. Always inform hotel staff about your itinerary.
Can we swim in the Ganges River in Varanasi?
Swimming is not recommended due to the Ganga’s strong currents. However, during festivals like Makar Sankranti local priests offer holy dips from wooden platforms enabling a safe Ganga snan ritual bath.
Does Varanasi airport have ATMs and Currency Exchange?
Yes, both domestic and international airport terminals have ATMs, currency exchange counters and credit card machines. Carry some emergency cash though. The airport is 25km from the city center.
What should I pack for visiting Varanasi?
Dress modestly covering arms and legs. Carry hats, sunglasses and mosquito repellent for daytime. Shawls, light jackets and socks keep you warm during early morning boat rides. Bring sturdy shoes suitable for walking along weathered ghats. Keep wet wipes and hand sanitizer handy.