The city of Varanasi also known as "The City of Lights". One of the oldest cities known to mankind, dating back over 3000 years and a spiritual array for millions of people all around the world. Known to be founded by the God of Gods "Lord Shiva", making it most well-known Hindu pilgrimage harbor in India. One of the 12 Jyotirlingas "The Kashi Vishwanath" also resides in Varanasi.
With witnessing astonishing Ganga Aarti and Pilgrims performing sacred rituals right Infront of your very eyes is a blessing. Varanasi is also known to be a home to various quintessential temples, bustling bazaars, vibrant traditions and rich culture. It is also said one who dies in Varanasi is freed from the cycle of birth and death.
Varanasi offers timeless charm and spirituality to the lost souls, a treasure of unforgettable experiences. Beautiful landmarks ranging from Vibrant Ghats to Sacred Temples, every part every corner of this city sparks a new light in you, offers you a story that guides you. Let's explore Varanasi in its divine charm and culture.
Varanasi-Tourism.in offers the best personalized tour packages for Varanasi tourism. Explore detailed itineraries of the following tours and book your religious trip to Varanasi at the best prices.
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Discover the top things to do and must-try activities for travelers in Varanasi.
The Holy River Ganges that is flowing from the matted locks of Lord Shiva's hair and having dip in that very river and also in Lord Shiva's own city Varanasi is a blessing that can't be measured in all of the human existence. With the echoes of the temple bells and chanting of various rituals around you makes that very experience a spiritual bliss. The Ghats of Dashashwamedh and Assi are well known as devotees are seen offering prayers and seeking blessing there. Devotees offer flowers, diyas and prayers while wading into the river cleaning their sins and attaining spiritual peace. Devotees also take the holy water back home with them.
The Ganga Aarti is one of the most beautiful and iconic spectacles to witness on planet Earth. Performed on the banks of the River Ganges, The Aarti is performed by various Pandits with full devotion, enthusiasm and spiritually uplifting rituals which even experienced 100 times can make your body shiver. The whole area gets covered the spiritual energy and this is done to thank Maa Ganga for being a precious source of life. The main venue where Ganga Aarti takes places is the Dashashwamedh Ghats. The Aarti often starts at 6:00 PM and last till 7:00 PM. Being 30-45 mins early ensures you a good secure spot.
Experience a beautiful and spiritual journey by experiencing Boating activities in Varanasi. The most popular thing to be done by tourist as Boating through the Ganges River, floating through the ghats and experiencing rituals being performed around you while you relaxing in the boat is timeless experience. The best time to experience a boat ride is at dawn when the sun sets and the river glistens with golden hues over the water. Although Morning Boat Ride, Sunset Boat Ride and a Ganga Aarti Boat View Ride is also offered in Varanasi. You can experience spiritual practices, take beautiful pictures of yourself or your surroundings or just relax and enjoy the views.
Hiring a cruise is the thing if you want to experience something more luxury than the usual traditional boat rides. Having the options of 'Luxury River Cruises' offering fine dining, comfortable seating and panoramic views, 'Private Boat Cruises' where you can travel at your own convenience, 'Sunset Cruises' offering rides when the sun is about to set to offer devotees the view Golden Ganga in its glory. The cruises usually pass through the most famous ghats of Varanasi i.e. Dashashwamedh, Manikarnika, Assi and Harishchandra So, whenever you want a more comfortable, luxury and a more intimate experience of Varanasi, of Ganges River, you choose Cruise.
Varanasi or Banaras with locals or Kashi in the ancient texts is one of the 7 sacred Hindu cities in India as was the home is still the home to the originator of the city i.e. "Lord Shiva". Varanasi is among the oldest inhabited cities all around the world, said to be founded over 3000 years in the past. The name of the city has been mentioned in various ancient texts like Mahabharata, Puranas and Rigveda. During the Mughal Era, Akbar led the demolition of many Hindu Temples and Kashi Vishwanath was one of them. Later, starting from the British Period, Varanasi regained recognition and flourished with modernization leading to what you experience today.
Varanasi has a very deep-rooted history and culture, Varanasi constitutes to spiritual excellence, artistic brilliance and cultural depth. Varanasi being the home to major Hindu temples such as Kashi Vishwanath and SankatMochan Temple gives out the spiritual significance of the city. Also known for its history in Music and Dance, The Banaras Gharana is popular classical musical style there. Pt. Ravi Shankar and Ustad Bismillah Khan, the Legendary Musicians hail from Varanasi. Goswami Tulsidas, author of Ramcharitmanas is deeply connected with Varanasi. Famous for its Banarasi Silk Sarees and BanarasiPaan is a cultural significance and hit among locals and tourists. Varanasi offers its devotees sacred ghats, music, crafts and a legacy for ages.
Varanasi is home to many Hindu Temples and these temples are not just a place to worship Gods but these temples also hold very deep historic background and cultural significance not only to the people of Varanasi but all the Indians. Roots of these temples expanding from the Mughal Era to the Information Age (i.e. 2025...). Each temple having its different history, a different story to tell like The Durga Mandir or The SankatMochan Temple, each temple not only shares spiritual significance but an architectural heritage as well. Visiting and exploring the temples and their history is a must.
Settled in the north side of the Varanasi district is Sarnath, although the place is 10 kms away from the main city center of Varanasi but is still considered part of Varanasi. Sarnath is known as the “Land of the Buddhists” because this is where Lord Buddha shared his first sermon to his first 5 disciples and many famous Buddhist Temples or Monasteries reside here. Dhamekh Stupa is one of the top landmarks to visit when in Sarnath. UNESCO has also declared Sarnath as a World Heritage Site. Anyone who wants to experience Buddhism culture and experience serenity complimenting Varanasi should visit here.
After exploring the tranquility, spirituality, architecture of the temples, culture-heritage and have taken blessings from the Gods, it is time to experience some well known places around Varanasi. From the Buddhist landmark Sarnath to incredibly beautiful Chunar Fort. Let's dive into more destinations that will increase your travel calendar.
Embark on an extraordinary exploration of the world’s oldest city, spiritual heart of India, Varanasi. Whether it’s taking a dip at the sacred ghats, being part of the Ganga Aarti or seeking blessings at the temples, this spiritual retreat in Uttar Pradesh secures an immensely beautiful holiday experience. Witness the beauty of Varanasi with meticulously curated tour packages by Varanasi-Tourism.org. From soul purifying Ganga Aarti to exploring ancient temples to narrow winding the streets, our Varanasi tour packages will ensure that each experience feels unique to you. We won't let you settle for anything less; we will make you part of the very essence present there. Get in touch with us for personalized guidance and expert assistance for your Varanasi holiday tour packages.
Visiting Varanasi is already a blissful and a spiritual experience for tourists and the devotees but along with visiting Varanasi, one can experience many other cities of Uttar Pradesh along the way. From seeing One of the 7 Wonders of The World to experiencing a once in a 144-year event 'The Mahakumbh' right now.
Home to The Taj Mahal 'One of the 7 Wonders of The World', built by The Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1631. Along with Taj Mahal, Agra has the famous Agra Fort, Akbar's Tomb and many other landmarks to visit. Lying on the western part of UP and the bank of Yamuna River. Agra isn't famous for their standalone attraction like Taj Mahal only but to unique like Pietra Dura (Marble Inlay), rugs, leather goods and those delicious pethas. Petha, Dalmoth and Mughlai Food is famous in Agra among the locals as well as tourists.
Seventh largest city and the capital of Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow is a renowned city known for its royal heritage also known as 'The City of Nawabs'. Believed to be founded by Lakshman (younger brother of Lord Rama). Started flourishing in the 18th and 19th Century on its own without the rule of Mughals and Sultans. Lucknow is a hub for textile, perfume and handicraft products with tourist coming from far away places just to shop here. Kabab, Nihari, Kormas, etc. are few of the many tasty staples found and enjoyed in Lucknow. Clock Tower, Chota Imambara, Lucknow Zoo are some of the famous places to visit when in Lucknow.
Birth place of Lord Shri Ram also known as Ram Janmabhoomi and one of the most revered Hindu cities in India with rich culture, historical brilliance and religious heritage. Was known as Saket in the ancient times. The history of Ayodhya is intertwined with the famous Ramayana where Lord Rama defeated Ravana and came back to Ayodhya after 14 years with Maa Sita. Since the construction of Ram Mandir on January 22, 2024... Ayodhya became a major pilgrimage place for Hindus with thousands of devotees visiting every month just to get a glimpse Ram Lalla in his full glory.
A UNESCO recognized heritage site Fatehpur Sikri, built in the late 16th Century by Mughal Emperor Akbar, Fatehpur Sikri served as his empire's capital for about 10 years because of the inadequate water supply. The famous Buland Darwaza is the Colossal Gateway to enter the Jama Masjid that was also built under the direction of Emperor Akbar in 1571. Fatehpur Sikri contains many old Mughal structures, constituting both Hindu and Muslim architectural styles. Just 37 kms away from Agra this ghost city with a mere population of 30000 welcomes tourists to explore ancient and splendid Mughal architectures. Birbal's Palace, Hawa Mahal and Tomb of Salim Chishti are some of the many famous attractions here.
Formerly known as Allahabad, now Prayagraj, city is staple for its history and spiritual conducts. Prayagraj has been passed down too many hands before falling in the hands of the Britishers. A major massacre on Indians by Britishers was also witnessed here in mid 1857s. Now under the Leadership Yogi Adityanath Ji, Prayagraj has been experiencing tremendous growth in its economy. Where the 3 Holy River Ganges, Yamuna and Saraswati meet, where the largest pilgrim gathering happens i.e. the famous Mahakumbh Mela, Prayagraj has been attracting millions of devotees every year.With iconic landmarks, local cuisines and house to prestigious Allahabad University, the city has a lot to offer.
Haridwar constitutes of two words 'Hari meaning God' and 'Dwar meaning Gate' altogether meaning Gateway to the God. A city based in the state of Uttarakhand, being one of the holiest and spiritually driven is known for its Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri attracting devotees from all around the globe. Haridwar also acts as astarting point to the famous Chardham Yatra. Host to the religious gathering called Kumbh Mela. One can take a dip in the Holy River Ganges, explore famous temples like Mansa Devi, Bharat Mata, etc. and shop for Rudraksh, stones, idols, etc. in this pilgrim city.
The Yoga Capital of India also known as Rishikesh is a gorgeous city nested in the northern part of Uttarakhand. River Ganges flowing from the highlands of the Himalayas, historic temples to seek blessings from and yoga retreats Rishikesh fulfills all the pilgrims and yoga enthusiasts wishes with a single visit. Rishikesh also acts as a gateway to the Chardham Yatra along with Haridwar. Rishikesh has 2 suspension bridges named Ram Jhula and Lakshman Jhula for the people to carry out their day-to-day activities. Various fun activities such as trekking, rafting and bungee jumping is also enjoyed in Rishikesh.
As Varanasi welcomes millions of devotees and tourists each year, the city also provides wide variety of accommodation facilities for them. Hotels, Guest Houses, Hostels and Dharmshalas can be found all over the city. Depending on the time you visit, the prices of the available accommodations can vary from cheap to expensive. Usually during the winter season, Varanasi expects a lot of tourism so prices of the accommodations increase drastically, so it is recommended to pre-book your stay to attain an effective price. All the basic amenities like breakfast, Wi-Fi, 24-hour front desk remains available over any accommodation present. Whether its budget friendly stays or luxury hotels, Varanasi has so many options to offer.
When to Visit Varanasi? Discover the best time to visit, along with insights on summer, monsoon, and winter weather and climate.
With temperatures ranging from 5° to 16° Celsius is the best time to plan a visit to Varanasi. With calm breeze blowing through out the day time makes it a very pleasant experience. Stays are expensive but if booked prior can acquire them at a good price.
Although monsoon is not an ideal time to visit Varanasi but the rain can help bring down the scorching heat and the tourist can enjoy some leisurely time. Tourism this time is at the lowest in Varanasi.
Temperatures touching a scorching 45° Celsius, traveling at this time of the year in Varanasi is difficult but because of budget stays and less crowd, Varanasi sees a good no. of tourists.
Varanasi offers great transport connectivity with all 3 means of transport available and connecting it with all the cities around it.
The Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport just 26 kms away from the city is Varanasi's own airport. The flights offered here are offered to major Indian cities as well as some international destinations.
The Varanasi and Kashi Railway Junctions are the 2 main stations of Varanasi. Both these stations are linked with almost every city of the country. With many devotees visiting Varanasi and for locals, train is the best available option.
With the connectivity of national highways to Varanasi, many bus and taxi services are offered from various cities of Uttar Pradesh as well as neighboring cities. Delhi, Lucknow, Agra, Prayagraj are some of the cities that offers them. One can also choose to drive his/her car.
Here are some important and frequently asked questions about Varanasi tourism.
One of the oldest Hindu pilgrimage sites with cultural and spiritual significance, rich history, home to Kashi Vishwanath (Jyotirlinga) and many other famous temples, 88 Ghats and world-renowned Ganga Aarti, is what makes Varanasi famous.
The best time to visit Varanasi is during the winter season that lasts from October to March. The weather is pleasant and great for sightseeing and exploring.
If you are first time visitor, spending at least 3-4 days is appropriate as you'll be able to explore lot of the major temples, ghats, witness Ganga Aarti, experience boat rides, etc. But if planning to visit nearby places along with Varanasi, then 10-12 days are required.
Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Dashashwamedh and Assi Ghat, Ramnagar Fort, Sarnath, Banaras Hindu University are few of the most popular places along with many other that are a must visit in Varanasi. Don't forget to experience the Ganga Aarti.
One of the 12 Jyotirlingas, Kashi Vishwanath Temple holds immense faith for the Hindus. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is said to grant liberation (moksha) to its worshippers. People from all over the world come here to seek divine blessings from Lord Shiva.
Kachori Sabzi, Tamaatar Chaat, Malaiyyo, Baati Chokha and world famous Banarasi Paan& Blue Lassi should one try when in Varanasi along with many other delicious staples.
Photography is generally allowed at the ghats with no restriction whatsoever but if a cremation ceremony is ongoing, it is prohibitedand like at every other temple in India, photography inside the temple is prohibited. So, always be updated with guidelines present.
Banarasi Silk Sarees, Glass Beads, Indic Literature, Wooden Toys, Gulabi Minakari and Hand Knotted Carpets are exclusive souvenirs to Varanasi that you can buy.
There are no restrictions for foreign tourists at the temples as long as they respect all the Hindu customs and practices.
Don't hang around too late or wander far from the city centre. Keep children close as Varanasi can be very crowded at times. If a foreign tourist, do follow the appropriate dress code. Overall, travelling in Varanasi is safe.
Staying near the Dashashwamedh Ghats for easy access to the river and Ganga Aarti or Cantonment if looking for an away from the city buzz area with luxury stays.
Boat rides start from 5:00 AM in the morning to 10:30 AM and 4:00 PM in the evening to 8:00 PM.
Aarti timings start from 3:00 AM to 4:00 AM in the morning (Mangla Aarti), 11:15 AM to 12:20 PM for Bhog Aarti, 7:00 PM to 8:15 PM for Saptirishi Aarti, 9:00 PM to 10:15 PM for Shringar Aarti and 10:30 PM to 11:00 PM for Shayan Aarti.
7:00 PM in summers and 6:00 PM in winters at Dashashwamedh Ghats and 5:00 AM in summers and 5:30 AM in winters along with 6:30 PM in summers and 6:00 PM in winters at Assi Ghat are the following timings for Aarti.
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