Nestled along the sacred banks of the Ganges River, Varanasi emerges as a city that transcends time and embraces the essence of the country’s cultural heritage. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited tourist destinations in India that holds immense spiritual significance in Hinduism and several other religions.
Often referred to as Kashi, Varanasi offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the rich cultural and religious fabric of the country. The city's ghats, temples, and narrow alleys provide an authentic experience of the country’s spiritual traditions, rituals, and customs.
Beyond its physical attractions, Varanasi is a place where mysticism and the practice of yoga have thrived for centuries. Visitors can find reputable yoga and meditation centers that offer a chance to explore these ancient practices in a serene and spiritually charged environment.
Not to forget about its culinary scene which is a feast to the senses. It is a delightful journey through traditional flavors, regional specialties, and an array of street food that tantalize your taste buds. Some of the must-try dishes are Banarasi Sweets, Kachori-Sabzi, Litti Chokha, Chena Dahi Vada, Makhan Malai, Bati Chokha, Chaats, Thandai, and Banarasi Paan.
Planning a getaway to Varanasi with our Varanasi Tour Packages is like embarking on a journey of self-discovery where the senses are awakened by the fragrance of incense, the mesmerizing chants along the ghats, and the vibrant hues of saris that line its narrow streets.
Varanasi's allure lies not only in its historic significance but in its ability to immerse travelers in an experience that goes beyond sightseeing – it's an immersion into the sacred, the profound, and the enchanting. Whether you seek spiritual solace, cultural immersion, or an encounter with the mystical, Varanasi's timeless charm offers an invitation to explore the soul of the country and leave with an indelible connection to its spiritual heart.
To enjoy your Varanasi tour to the fullest, we recommend you book a Varanasi Tour Package with us. We at Varanasi Tourism, specialize in creating curated travel experiences that suit everyone’s holiday style. Our team possesses extensive knowledge about Varanasi's attractions, culture, and local insights. This expertise ensures that you'll get the most out of your visit and discover hidden gems that might not be well-known to regular tourists.
What sets us apart from others is personalization. Depending on your preferences, interests, and trip duration, we help you tailor our Varanasi tour packages to your needs. Your happiness is what we care about the most and we leave no stone unturned to accomplish that. After all, a trip happens only once.
At Varanasi Tourism, we take care of all the details including accommodation, transportation, sightseeing, and more so that you can have the best time of your life. Our travel experts also assist you in creating an itinerary that optimizes your schedule, ensuring you get to experience all must-see places and activities without wasting time on confusion or getting lost. Don’t forget to leverage the benefits of exclusive deals and discount coupons with us. Not only does it help you save your hard-earned money but also allows you to add a unique dimension to your trip.
When you travel with us, you have the assurance of safety and support throughout your journey as our customer representatives are available round the clock to assist you with any issues or concerns that may arise during your trip. What else?
For your ease, we have also curated a list of top car rental companies in Varanasi. You can hire a private taxi with an experienced chauffeur from there to commute within the city in your utmost comfort. Not to worry about the extra charges as everything is already included in the package. Just pack your bags and get ready to go!
Coming to the popular sightseeing places in Varanasi, you can kick-start your exploration with a visit to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Located in the heart of the town, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Pilgrims and visitors gather here to seek blessings, witness powerful rituals, and experience the vibrant spirituality. The temple's presence is not just a physical structure; it embodies the essence of Varanasi's spiritual tapestry, inviting all to connect with the divine in a city that has beckoned seekers for centuries.
Next is the Sankat Mochan Temple which draws devotees’ attention from far and wide. As a place of worship, this temple blesses all who come to seek relief from all the troubles and difficulties they’re facing in their life. With daily aarti ceremonies and the echo of Hanuman Chalisa chants, it resonates with devotion and a sense of solace.
From there, you can head to the Tulsi Manas Temple to admire its beautiful architecture. Built at the spot where the saint-poet Tulsidas is believed to have composed the epic poem "Ramcharitmanas," the Tulsi Manas Temple boasts an unparalleled charm and aura that makes you feel connected to your inner soul for some time.
In addition to the above-mentioned places, many other religious sites in Varanasi are there that are worth including on the itinerary list. These include Durga Temple, Nepali Temple, Batuk Bhairav Mandir, Bharat Mata Mandir, Tibetan Temple, ISKCON Temple, and Chinese Temple.
All those interested in exploring something different with our Varanasi tour packages than the temples can plan a getaway to the Dashashwamedh Ghat. Lying only 1 km away from Kashi Vishwanath Temple, the Dashashwamedh Ghat is a vibrant ghat along the sacred Ganga River that is widely renowned for its daily Ganga aarti ceremonies. It’s a grand spectacle of lamps, chants, and incense that creates an enchanting experience that is no less than a treat to watch.
While Assi Ghat has a soul-stirring atmosphere, the Kedar Ghat features tranquil surroundings that are perfect for spiritual reflection. Shivala Ghat and Man Mandir Ghat are the two other ghats in Varanasi that invite people to participate in various rituals. Depending on your interest, you can choose to visit one or all. Each of these ghats carries its own unique story, traditions, and spiritual energy, contributing to the city's vibrant tapestry of devotion, history, and cultural richness.
For history buffs, Varanasi boasts Ramnagar Fort and Chunar Fort. Both the forts enrich the city's landscape with their unique narratives, architectural splendor, and the echoes of a time long gone. Exploring these forts unveils the layers of history that have shaped the region and provide a glimpse into the rich tapestry of India's heritage.
For museum lovers, the city has Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum. Situated within the Banaras Hindu University campus, the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum is a cultural treasure trove that chronicles the artistic heritage of Varanasi and India. This museum's extensive collection showcases a diverse range of artifacts, including sculptures, paintings, textiles, coins, and archaeological finds.
And for adventure seekers, there is a Varanasi Fun City Water Park that offers a fun-filled day out to families and friends. You can also take some time out for Aqua World to feel an adrenaline rush in your body and set your heart racing.
Don’t forget to shop; Otherwise, you’ll surely regret it! From bustling markets to age-old handicrafts, shopping in Varanasi is a journey of exploration through traditional craftsmanship and timeless beauty. You can purchase exquisite silk sarees, fabrics, jewelry, Banarasi carpets, wooden and stone carvings, and traditional souvenirs like glass bangles, brassware, clay pottery, etc., to bring home a piece of its vibrant essence. A few of the must-visit markets in Varanasi are Vishwanath Gali, Thatheri Bazaar, Godaulia Market, and Chowk.
Please note that the best time to plan a getaway to Varanasi is during the winter season i.e., from October to February. At this time, the weather is pleasant and comfortable with temperatures ranging from around 5°C to 20°C. The cool climate makes it easier to explore the city's temples, ghats, and markets without the discomfort of extreme heat. Festivals like Diwali and Dev Deepavali which involve lighting lamps and celebrating along the ghats also occur during this season, adding to the city's charm.
The summer months in Varanasi are quite hot with temperatures often exceeding 40°C in April and May. This is the off-season for tourism due to the extreme heat, and it's not the most comfortable time for sightseeing. However, if you're comfortable with the heat and want to experience Varanasi with fewer crowds, you might find good deals on accommodations and travel.
To reach Varanasi, you can opt to travel via airways, railways, or roadways. Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport serves Varanasi and is located around 18 km from the city center. It has regular flights connecting Varanasi to major cities in India including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bangalore. From the airport, you can take a taxi, pre-paid cab, or a rideshare service to get down to your desired location.
Varanasi Junction, also known as Varanasi Cantt Railway Station, is one of the busiest railway stations in India. It is well-connected to many metro cities across the country through various trains including long-distance and express trains. Some popular trains like Kashi Vishwanath Express and Shramjeevi Express connect Varanasi to Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and more.
Lastly, the city has a great network of well-maintained roads. National Highway 2 (NH-2) and National Highway 19 (NH-19) pass through the city, connecting it to tourist destinations like Kolkata, Delhi, Agra, and more. State and private buses operate on these routes, offering various options for road travel.
Once you're in Varanasi, you can look for local transportation options such as auto-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws. Varanasi's narrow lanes and traffic conditions make cycle rickshaws a convenient and popular mode of transportation for exploring the city's markets, ghats, and temples. Auto-rickshaws and taxis are also available for longer distances or when you need a more comfortable ride.
In essence, we can say that Varanasi is not just a place to visit; it's an opportunity to engage with spirituality, culture, and humanity on a deeper level. Its aura of mysticism, its celebration of life and death, and its rich heritage of knowledge and traditions make it a destination that touches the soul and invites introspection and growth.
Irrespective of when and for how long you’re traveling to Varanasi, we at Varanasi Tourism can help you make the most of your time. So, what are you waiting for? Please fill out the Contact Us form to get in touch with us.