Varanasi, the spiritual capital of India, is a must-visit destination. With its unique culture, vibrant traditions, ancient temples, and breathtaking ghats along the Ganges, Varanasi offers an unforgettable experience. Whether you are looking for spiritual enlightenment or simply looking to explore a unique destination, Varanasi should be on your list. Here are the best things to do in Varanasi!
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What is Varanasi
Also known as Benaras or Kashi, Varanasi is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and it is located in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh, India. It is sometimes referred to as the “City of Light” as it has been an important spiritual and cultural center for thousands of years. It is a major pilgrimage site for Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains, as well as being an important commercial and educational hub.
The city’s narrow lanes and alleys are lined with colorful Hindu temples, shrines, and palaces, and the city is also home to some of the most renowned spiritual and religious leaders in India.
Varanasi is known for its ghats (steps leading to the river) and temples, which draw pilgrims from all over the world. The sacred Ganges River runs through Varanasi and is a major part of the city’s spiritual life. Every day, thousands of people come to the river to bathe and perform religious rituals.
Varanasi is also famous for its spicy street food, which includes chaat (a savory snack) and lassi (a yogurt-based drink). It is a place where tradition and modernity meet, resulting in a vibrant and bustling city full of energy and life.
Moreover, many people go to Varanasi when they are near death in order to die there, as the city is considered to be a sacred destination for Hindus. It is believed that those who die in Varanasi will attain liberation from the cycle of rebirth. The city is well known for its cremation or burning ghats (areas where Hindu funeral rites are performed).
The Burning Ghats of Varanasi
There are two burning ghats in Varanasi: Manikarnika Ghat and Maharaja Harishchandra Ghat.
Assisting to a cremation ritual on the banks of the River Ganges is not for the faint of heart. It all happens out in the open and it is a raw, powerful experience. Some people may find it graphic, upsetting or disturbing, but it’s good to understand the tradition behind it.
Cremation gatherings in Varanasi, India, are a centuries-old tradition and a spiritual ritual for Hindus. Cremation takes place on two burning ghats on the banks of the River Ganges, which is considered holy by Hindus. Families come to Varanasi from all over India to cremate their departed loved ones.
The funeral ceremonies involve chanting of mantras and offering of flowers, incense and other items of veneration. The body is placed on a pyre and the soul is allowed to pass on to the next life. The ashes are then scattered in the holy waters of the Ganges, signifying the cycle of life and death.
Do’s and Don’ts at the Burning Ghats of Varanasi
The funeral rituals in Varanasi are a solemn moment, and it’s good to know how to behave when visiting a burning ghats. As visitors, you’re allowed to walk anywhere you like at the cremation ghats, but there are a few lines you shouldn’t cross. Here are some Do’s and Don’ts at the cremation ghats:
Do’s
- Wear modest and appropriate clothing.
- Follow the local customs and religious traditions of the Hindu community.
- Respect the grieving family members and offer your condolences.
- Participate in the rituals and ceremonies.
- Bring flowers or food items as a gesture of respect.
Don’ts
- Don’t take pictures or videos of the cremation.
- Don’t smoke or drink at the cremation ground.
- Don’t disrespect the traditions or religious customs.
- Don’t be loud or disruptive at the cremation.
- Don’t bring non-vegetarian food items as a gesture of respect.
The only photos you should take – if any – are from the distance. We’d recommend only taking pics from the boat ride if you don’t want to have problems. We’ve heard of local people being very aggressive towards tourists who don’t respect this rules.
On the other hand, it isn’t seen as disrespectful to assist and take photos while the corpses are transported towards the gaths. Here the bodies are fully covered in textiles and flowers, and it’s okay to take a few shots.
How to get to Varanasi
Getting to Varanasi won’t be too difficult. Being such a popular destination, you will find countless buses, trains and flights from all over India going to Varanasi. Depending on where you are, check the mean of transport that you prefer.
For trains, check IRCTC. For buses, opt for Redbus or Makemytrip. For flights, we recommend checking them on skyscanner and then book directly on the company that shows up.
Just to give you an idea, there are as many as 19 buses and 12 trains per day connecting Delhi and Varanasi. This route takes 12 to 15 hours, yet there are so many options connecting the capital city of India with Varanasi.
In our case, we were coming from Agra and we had booked a train ticket to reach Varanasi. The train got cancelled due to a thick fog, so we opted for a bus instead. The ride was quite long (15hours) and stressful due to the fog, but eventually we made it safely to Benaras. We then took a cab for the last mile.
Best things to do in Varanasi
From the ancient temples and ghats to the vibrant markets and festivals, it is easy to see why Varanasi is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. Whether you are looking for a spiritual experience, a cultural adventure, or just a chance to relax and take in the beauty of the city, Varanasi has something for everyone. Here are the best things to do in Varanasi:
1) Take a boat ride on the Ganges River
Taking a boat ride on the Ganges River is a unique and unforgettable experience. The river is lined with ancient temples, but you can also observe the locals who come to the river to bathe, perform religious rituals, wash clothes, and even fish. The atmosphere is one of spirituality, peace, and timelessness, and a boat ride is a must-do experience when visiting the city.
Finding a boat is extremely easy. As soon as you walk on the gaths, no matter where, you’ll be approached by locals who want to offer you a boat ride. There are either motor boats and rowing boats, with the first ones being the most common – but also slightly more expensive. Prices will vary a lot depending on the boat man, the type of boat and the number of people, but you shouldn’t end up paying more than 500 INR ($6 USD) per person for a 1-hour ride.
We had a private motor boat for just 2 people, and we only paid 1000 INR ($12 USD) for about 1 hour. Obviously you can pay much less by sharing a boat with more people.
2) Visit the Kashi Vishwanath Mandir
The Kashi Vishwanath Mandir in Varanasi is one of the most sacred Hindu temples in India. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva, the destroyer and regenerator of the universe. The temple is believed to have been established by the Hindu god, Lord Vishnu, in the 8th century. The temple is also known as the Golden Temple due to its gilded towers that dominate the skyline of Varanasi.
It is believed that a visit to the temple can help individuals to attain moksha, or liberation from the cycle of birth and death. The temple also houses a Jyotirlinga, which is one of the twelve revered Lingas of Lord Shiva. It is believed that these lingas possess magical powers, and visiting them can help to fulfill wishes. The temple also serves as an important pilgrimage site for Hindus and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
3) Attend a traditional Ganga Aarti ceremony
Every evening, thousands of devotees gather to witness the grand spectacle of the Ganga Aarti, an age-old ritual that has been conducted at the temple for centuries. The Ganga Aarti is a religious ceremony wherein devotees offer prayer and devotion to the sacred river Ganges.
The ceremony is conducted by priests, who chant prayers to the river, while devotees light diyas (lamps) and incense sticks. The aarti is accompanied by the melodious ringing of bells and the enchanting sounds of the devotional hymns. The Ganga Aarti is a beautiful ceremony that is a treat to watch, and is a reminder of the deep spiritual connection that the people of Varanasi have with the sacred river Ganges.
WHERE? The Ganga Aarti ceremony can be attended at the Dashashwamedh Ghat. It takes place in the evening around 6:30 PM.
4) Explore the markets of Varanasi
The street markets of Varanasi are interesting because they offer a unique blend of culture, tradition, and commerce. The bazaars are home to merchants from all across India who sell a variety of items from spices to cloths to jewelry.
The markets are also known for their vibrant atmosphere, as vendors often sing and dance to attract customers. Furthermore, the markets provide a glimpse into the traditional culture and lifestyle of the local people.
The best market in Varanasi is the Vishwanath Gali, located in the old city near the Vishwanath temple. It is a bustling marketplace filled with shops selling traditional clothing, spices, jewelry, handicrafts, and more.
5) Visit the Cremation Ghats of Varanasi
There are 2 main cremations gaths in Varanasi, Manikarnika Ghat and Maharaja Harishchandra Ghat. While it may be a powerful experience – possibly too strong to some – we recommend visiting at least one cremation ghat in order to fully experience the Hindu culture and the holiness of Varanasi.
Cerimonies happens all day long at the burning ghats, and there is no entrance fee. People are free to walk around the burning ghats just as in any other part of the city.
6) Explore the Sarnath Buddhist temple
The Sarnath Buddhist temple, also known as Dharmarajika Stupa, is a Buddhist temple located in Varanasi, India. It is believed to be the place where Gautama Buddha preached his first sermon after achieving enlightenment.
The temple is considered to be the birthplace of Buddhism, and is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists from all over the world. The temple complex is home to a number of monuments, including the Ashoka Pillar, Dhamek Stupa and the museum of Archaeological Survey of India.
7) Take a walk along the ghats
Walking the ghats of Varanasi is an incredible experience. The atmosphere is vibrant and alive, with the chanting of mantras, the sounds of bells ringing, and the smell of incense in the air. You can find both locals and visitors enjoying the peaceful atmosphere along the ghats, taking in the sights and sounds of the holy river Ganges. Walking along the gaths is often said to be one of the most spiritual and unique experiences in India.
At the same time, expect to be bothered by many people. While most Indians mind their own business and enjoy the holiness of the Ganges River, for many others tourists are the only source of income. Boat owners, masseurs, spiritual gurus and street vendors are everywhere and will constantly try to sell you something. They will often be insistent, so be clear about your intentions and don’t worry about being discourteous. Also, don’t shake hands, as this is a common “trap” in Varanasi amongst masseurs.
8) Visit Ramnagar Fort and Museum
The Ramnagar Fort is definitely worth visiting. It’s a beautiful historical fort located on the eastern bank of the Ganges River. It is an important tourist attraction in the city and is listed as a protected monument by the Archaeological Survey of India. The fort has a long and rich history and is home to a number of interesting attractions, including an ancient temple, a palace, and an armory.
9) Try Lassi at Blue Lassi
One of the most famous delicacies of Varanasi is Lassi. This creamy and refreshing drink is made with yogurt, cream, and saffron and is often served with chopped nuts and dried fruits. It is quite popular among locals and tourists alike, and can be found at many street stalls and cafes throughout the city.
The Blue Lassi shop in Varanasi is probably the most famous Lassi shop. It has been around since the 1950s and people love it for the unique flavor of the lassi and the traditional atmosphere of the shop. The shop is run by the same family for generations, and the owners take pride in providing a quality product. The shop serves up lassi with various flavors and ingredients, including rose syrup, mango pulp, cardamom and saffron.
Moreover, the shop is on the way to Manikarnika Ghat, and families carrying corpses of their relatives pass in front of the shop throughout the day.
10) Take a sunrise or sunset tour of the city
Don’t miss the chance to explore the city streets of Varanasi at sunrise. The city is illuminated by the warm morning light, and the holy Ganges River reflects the colors of the sun. The city is also full of life, with pilgrims and locals starting their day and offering prayers. Varanasi is a truly magical place at sunrise.
When the sun is about to set, the shows starts all over again and the warm colours make everything more beautiful.
11) Visit the Bharat Mata Temple
Bharat Mata Temple is a temple dedicated to the motherland India, located in the Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapith campus in Varanasi, India. The temple was built in 1936 by freedom fighter Babu Shiv Prasad Gupta. It is the only temple in India dedicated to the motherland and houses a marble relief map of India. The temple is a popular tourist destination and is visited by thousands of pilgrims every year.
12) Explore the Archaeological Buddhist Remains of Sarnath
The Archaeological Buddhist Remains of Sarnath in Varanasi is a world-famous archaeological site and one of the four major Buddhist pilgrimage sites in India. It is the place where Gautama Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. The site is marked by the Dhamekh Stupa, Ashoka Pillar, and several other ruins of the past. It is also home to the Sarnath Museum, where many ancient artifacts and sculptures related to Buddhism are preserved.
13) Visit the Tulsi Manas Mandir
The Tulsi Manas Mandir is a temple in Varanasi, India, dedicated to the Hindu god Rama. It is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Varanasi and is widely regarded as a place of spiritual significance. The temple is an important center of Rama worship and is considered to be one of the holiest places of pilgrimage in India.
It is said to have been built on the site where Tulsidas, the author of the epic Ramacharitmanas, composed the great spiritual work. The temple is said to have been constructed in the 16th century by a rich merchant and devotee of Rama, Raja Man Singh. The temple is renowned for its beautiful architecture and stunningly intricate carvings.
Where to stay in Varanasi
There are many accommodations in Varanasi, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses and hostels to mid-range hotels and luxury resorts. Many of them, however, aren’t conveniently located, so make sure to check the location before booking! Here are some of the ones we’d recommend.
- ON A BUDGET: Wander Station Varanasi is the place we stayed at, and it was a fine stay. The rooftop is beautiful, and a bunk bed costs about $9 USD per night. Alternatively, check out Madsquad Varanasi (from $6 USD per night) or Gypsy Diaries Varanasi (also from $6 USD per night).
- MID-RANGE: If you like the hostel vibes but you prefer a bit more comfort, check the private rooms of the places listed above. Alternatively, other nice options would be Foreigners’ Inn (from $32 USD/night for two people), Stay Banaras – A Boutique Hotel ($62 USD/night for two people) and Shiva Ganges View Guest House (from $75 USD/night).
- LUXURY: The best place to stay at in Varanasi is undoubtedly the Brijrama Palace, Varanasi, an historical palace by the Ganges. This unfortunately is also the most expensive stay in the city, with rooms starting from over $330 USD/night for two people. An alternative would be Cocasa boutique Hotel (from $60 USD/night)
How long should you stay in Varanasi
The length of time you should stay in Varanasi depends on what you want to experience and explore. If you want to explore the city fully, then you should plan to stay for at least 4-5 days. If you just want to visit the main attractions or you are on a tight schedule, then you can stay for just 2-3 days.
We only stayed in Varanasi for 2 full days, but many of the people we’ve met were staying longer and did not regret their choice.
Best time to visit Varanasi
The best time to visit Varanasi is during the winter season, which runs from November to February. The weather during this time is pleasant and cool, making it the ideal time to explore the city. The average temperature during the winter season ranges from 10°C to 25°C (50-77°F).
On the other hand, the climate in Varanasi during summer (April to June) is hot and humid. The temperatures range from 22-40°C (72-104°F), while rainfall is also common during this time of year.
Varanasi is also one of the best places to visit during the festival season, especially during Diwali.
Diwali in Varanasi: Diwali in Varanasi is celebrated in the month of October or November. The exact date of the festival varies every year, but it typically falls on the new moon day of the Hindu month of Karthik, which is usually in the month of October or November.