Varanasi, India Travel Guide

Discover Varanasi, the spiritual heart of India, where ancient traditions, sacred rituals, and vibrant culture converge along the banks of the holy Ganges River.

Welcome to Varanasi, one of the oldest living cities in the world, where spirituality and history intertwine in a mesmerizing blend. Nestled along the sacred Ganges River, Varanasi is a city of temples, ghats, and vibrant festivals. It is a place where life and death walk hand in hand, offering a profound experience that touches the soul. Begin your journey at the ghats, the steps leading down to the river, where you can witness the timeless rituals of bathing, prayer, and cremation. The Dashashwamedh Ghat is the most famous, where the evening Ganga Aarti ceremony captivates both locals and visitors with its fervent chants and twinkling lamps. For an even more enchanting experience, take a boat ride at dawn and watch the city awaken in the soft golden light. Varanasi is also home to some of the most important temples in Hinduism. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a must-visit. Its golden spire and intricate carvings are a testament to the city's rich architectural heritage. Another significant site is the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, where you can feel the divine energy and hear the resonating chants of devotees. Beyond the spiritual allure, Varanasi is a hub of culture and learning. The Banaras Hindu University is one of the largest residential universities in Asia and a center of art, music, and dance. The city's narrow lanes are dotted with shops selling silk saris, wooden toys, and delicious street food. Don't miss trying the local delicacies like kachori sabzi and the famous Banarasi paan. Varanasi is a city that stays with you long after you've left. Its soulful atmosphere, rich traditions, and warm hospitality make it a unique and unforgettable destination.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Varanasi.

Attend the evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat for a captivating spiritual experience.
Take an early morning boat ride on the Ganges to see the city in its most serene and beautiful light.
Visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, but be prepared for security checks and long queues.
Explore the narrow lanes for local handicrafts and authentic street food; try the famous Banarasi paan.
Respect local customs and traditions, especially at the ghats and temples.
Wear comfortable footwear as you'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces and steps.
Carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated, especially during the hot summer months.
Hire a knowledgeable local guide to gain deeper insights into the city's history and culture.

Neighbourhoods in Varanasi

Dashashwamedh Ghat

Assi Ghat

Sarnath

Varanasi Cantt

Explore All Neighbourhoods in Varanasi

Explore Varanasi: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Varanasi

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Best Attractions

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Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Experience the divine essence of Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi, a stunning Hindu sanctuary steeped in rich history and cultural significance.

4.7

Assi Ghat, Varanasi

Discover the sacred serenity of Assi Ghat in Varanasi, where spirituality, culture, and the Ganges converge in a breathtaking riverside experience.

4.6

Ramnagar Fort Varanasi

Explore the majestic Ramnagar Fort, a historical gem in Varanasi showcasing royal heritage and breathtaking views of the Ganges.

4.1

Banaras Hindu University

Discover the rich history and vibrant culture of Banaras Hindu University in Varanasi, where education and heritage blend seamlessly.

4.5

Best landmarks in Varanasi

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Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Discover the spiritual heart of Varanasi at Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple, a magnificent Hindu shrine rich in history and devotion.

4.7

Assi Ghat Varanasi

Explore the spiritual heart of Varanasi at Assi Ghat, where culture, tradition, and the sacred Ganges intertwine in a mesmerizing experience.

4.6

Assi Ghat, Varanasi

Discover the spiritual heart of Varanasi at Assi Ghat, where culture, tradition, and the sacred Ganges come alive.

4.6

Dashashwamedh Ghat

Explore Dashashwamedh Ghat, a spiritual gem in Varanasi, where devotion meets vibrant culture along the sacred Ganges River.

4.6

Best restaurants in Varanasi

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Kashi Chat Bhandar

Experience the authentic taste of Indian street food at Kashi Chat Bhandar in Varanasi—where every bite tells a story.

4.2

Kerala Cafe

Experience authentic South Indian cuisine at Kerala Cafe in Varanasi - where flavor meets tradition in every bite.

4.1

Baati Chokha Restaurant

Discover authentic vegetarian Indian cuisine at Baati Chokha Restaurant in Varanasi - where tradition meets flavor.

4.2

Roma's Cafe Diner

Experience culinary diversity at Roma's Cafe Diner in Varanasi - where Asian meets European flavors in a vibrant setting.

4.3

Best bars in Varanasi

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VNS LIVE STUDIO

Experience the vibrant flavors and lively ambiance at VNS LIVE STUDIO in Varanasi, where culinary delights meet cultural encounters.

4.0

THE 3RD FLOOR BAR STOCK EXCHANGE

Experience vibrant nightlife and exquisite dining at The 3rd Floor Bar Stock Exchange in Varanasi, where drinks are a dynamic delight.

4.0

My Table

Discover My Table in Varanasi - a rooftop bar offering stunning views, delicious drinks, and a vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.

4.1

Captain Nova - Bar & Lounge

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Varanasi at Captain Nova, where delicious cuisine, signature cocktails, and live entertainment come together.

4.2

Best nightclubs in Varanasi

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Captain Nova - Bar & Lounge

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Captain Nova, Varanasi's top bar and lounge featuring exquisite drinks, delightful cuisine, and live DJ music.

4.2

Drinks On Board | Pub Bar Nightclub

Discover the lively nightlife at Drinks On Board, a must-visit pub bar nightclub in Varanasi offering delicious drinks and vibrant entertainment.

4.7

The Vibe

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious flavors at The Vibe, Varanasi's premier bar and restaurant, perfect for a lively night out.

4.3

My Dream

Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and entertainment at My Dream in Sarnath, Varanasi, featuring a pool, club atmosphere, and delicious cuisine.

4.0

Best shops in Varanasi

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Firstcry.com Store Varanasi Gulabbagh

Experience the ultimate shopping destination for babies and parents at Firstcry.com Store in Varanasi, where quality meets variety.

4.9

Kambal Ghar - Maldahiya Varanasi

Discover Kambal Ghar in Varanasi for a captivating blend of traditional and contemporary fashion that reflects India's rich textile heritage.

4.1

Kashi Homes Gift & Decor | Best Gift Shop in Varanasi | Best Home Decor & Event Decorator in Varanasi

Explore Kashi Homes Gift & Decor for unique gifts and exquisite home decor that embody the rich culture of Varanasi.

4.8

BIG SHOP

Explore BIG SHOP in Varanasi for unique clothing and accessories that blend tradition with modern fashion styles.

4.6

Explore Varanasi on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Varanasi, mapped for you.

Varanasi Essentials

Varanasi, also known as Kashi, is well-connected by air, rail, and road. The nearest airport is Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, located about 26 kilometers from the city center. It offers flights to major Indian cities and some international destinations. Varanasi Junction (BSB) is the main railway station, serving as a hub for trains coming from all parts of India. For road travelers, Varanasi is connected via National Highways 2, 7, and 29. Buses, taxis, and private cars are available for road travel.
In Varanasi, auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws, and taxis are the most common modes of local transport. For short distances, cycle-rickshaws are a convenient and eco-friendly option. Auto-rickshaws and taxis can be hired for longer distances or for a full day of sightseeing. Public buses are available but might not be very comfortable for tourists. For a unique experience, don't miss a boat ride on the Ganges River, especially during sunrise or sunset.
The official currency in India is the Indian Rupee (INR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops in Varanasi. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for small purchases, street food, and in areas where card payments are not accepted. ATMs are widely available throughout the city.
Varanasi is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone late at night in poorly lit areas. Be cautious of your belongings in crowded places, such as markets and during festivals. Areas like the old city near the ghats can be particularly crowded and chaotic; stay vigilant. Scams targeting tourists, such as overpriced boat rides or guided tours, are not uncommon. Always negotiate prices beforehand.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Varanasi has several hospitals and clinics for medical emergencies. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, you can find pharmacies throughout the city. The local police station can assist with any security concerns.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid revealing clothing. Religion: Do show respect to local customs and traditions. Remove your shoes before entering temples and cover your head if required. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a 'Namaste,' with hands folded in a prayer position. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Varanasi like a local, take a morning boat ride on the Ganges River to witness the daily rituals. Visit the local markets, such as the Vishwanath Gali, to buy traditional Banarasi silk sarees and handicrafts. Engage with locals to learn about the city's history and culture. Don’t miss the evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, a mesmerizing spiritual experience.

When is the best time to visit Varanasi?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Varanasi

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Varanasi. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- Helloनमस्ते
  [namaste]
- Goodbyeअलविदा
  [alvida]
- Yesहाँ
  [haan]
- Noनहीं
  [nahin]
- Please/You're welcomeकृपया
  [krupaya]
- Thank youधन्यवाद
  [dhanyavad]
- Excuse me/Sorryक्षमा कीजिए
  [kshama keejiye]
- How are you?आप कैसे हैं?
  [aap kaise hain?]
- Fine. And you?ठीक हूँ। और आप?
  [thik hoon. aur aap?]
- Do you speak English?क्या आप अंग्रेज़ी बोलते हैं?
  [kya aap angrezi bolte hain?]
- I don't understandमुझे समझ नहीं आया
  [mujhe samajh nahi aaya]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseकृपया मेन्यू दिखाएं
  [krupaya menu dikhaye]
- I don't eat meatमैं मांस नहीं खाता/खाती
  [main maans nahi khaata/khaati]
- Cheers!चियर्स!
  [cheers!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseकृपया मुझे भुगतान करने दे
  [krupaya mujhe bhugtan karne de]
- Help!बचाओ!
  [bachao!]
- Go away!चले जाओ!
  [chale jao!]
- Call the Police!पुलिस को बुलाओ!
  [police ko bulaao!]
- Call a doctor!डॉक्टर को बुलाओ!
  [doctor ko bulaao!]
- I'm lostमैं खो गया/गई हूँ
  [main kho gaya/gayi hoon]
- I'm illमुझे बीमारी है
  [mujhe bimari hai]
- I'd like to buy...मैं... खरीदना चाहूँ
  [main... khareedna chahta/chahti hoon]
- I'm just lookingमैं सिर्फ देख रहा/रही हूँ
  [main sirf dekh raha/rahi hoon]
- How much is it?यह कितने का है?
  [yah kitne ka hai?]
- That's too expensiveयह बहुत महंगा है
  [yah bahut mahnga hai]
- Can you lower the price?क्या आप कीमत कम कर सकते हैं?
  [kya aap keemat kam kar sakte hain?]
- What time is it?अब कितने बजे हैं?
  [ab kitne baje hain?]
- It's one o'clockएक बजे हैं
  [ek baje hain]
- Half past (10)दस बजे तक
  [das baje tak]
- Morningसुबह
  [subah]
- Afternoonदोपहर
  [dopahar]
- Eveningशाम
  [shaam]
- Yesterdayकल
  [kal]
- Todayआज
  [aaj]
- Tomorrowकल
  [kal]
- 1एक
  [ek]
- 2दो
  [do]
- 3तीन
  [teen]
- 4चार
  [chaar]
- 5पांच
  [paanch]
- 6छह
  [chhe]
- 7सात
  [saat]
- 8आठ
  [aath]
- 9नौ
  [nau]
- 10दस
  [das]
- Where's a/the...?... कहाँ है?
  [... kahan hai?]
- What's the address?पता क्या है?
  [pata kya hai?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?क्या आप मुझे दिखा सकते हैं (नक्शे पर)?
  [kya aap mujhe dikha sakte hain (naksha par)?]
- When's the next (bus)?अगली (बस) कब है?
  [agli (bas) kab hai?]
- A ticket (to ....)एक टिकट (किसके लिए...)
  [ek ticket (kiske liye...)]

History of Varanasi

Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Benares, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Its origins date back to around 2000 BCE. It is believed that the city was founded by the Hindu deity Lord Shiva, making it a pivotal site for Hinduism.
Varanasi is renowned for its numerous temples. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the most famous and sacred temples in the city. Originally constructed in 1780 by Ahilya Bai Holkar, the temple has been a spiritual center for millions of Hindu devotees.
The Ganges River, or Ganga, is considered sacred in Hinduism. Varanasi's ghats, or riverfront steps, are a focal point for pilgrims who come to bathe in the river's holy waters. Dasaswamedh Ghat, one of the most prominent ghats, is believed to be the site where Lord Brahma performed a ten-horse sacrifice.
Varanasi is also significant in Buddhism. Sarnath, located just 10 kilometers from Varanasi, is where Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. The Dhamek Stupa, constructed in 500 CE, marks the spot of this historic event.
During the medieval period, Varanasi was a thriving center of learning and culture, attracting scholars, philosophers, and artists. The city was an important trade hub, connecting North India with regions such as Bengal and Central Asia.
In the 16th century, Varanasi came under Mughal rule. Emperor Akbar was known to have visited the city and patronized its cultural institutions. The Mughal influence is evident in some of the city's architecture, including the Gyanvapi Mosque, built by Aurangzeb in the 17th century.
Varanasi became part of the British Raj in the 18th century. The British influence brought modern education and infrastructure to the city, including the establishment of Banaras Hindu University in 1916 by Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya, which remains one of the largest residential universities in Asia.
After India's independence in 1947, Varanasi underwent significant changes. The city has continued to be a hub of cultural, spiritual, and academic activities. Modernization efforts have aimed to preserve its historical heritage while accommodating contemporary needs.
Varanasi is famous for its vibrant festivals. Dev Deepawali, celebrated fifteen days after Diwali, sees the ghats illuminated with millions of diyas (oil lamps). The Ganga Mahotsav, a cultural festival, showcases the city's rich traditions, music, and dance.