Varanasi Travel Guide: Unveiling India's Spiritual Heart

Varanasi is located in the northern part of India, in the state of Uttar Pradesh. It lies on the banks of the Ganges River, which is one of the holiest rivers in Hinduism. Varanasi is a must-visit on any India tour because it offers a profound spiritual experience, deeply rooted in ancient Hindu traditions. Read this travel guide and find everything you need for visiting Varanasi, such as transportation, best travel time, top attractions, and cultural etiquette & practical tips.

Why Varanasi Is a Must-Visit

Mark Twain once described Varanasi as "older than history itself," and it is believed to be the oldest continuously inhabited city in the world. Known as the "Spiritual Heart" of India, Varanasi boasts over 1,500 temples and numerous landmarks. The ghats along the Ganges River, where life and death converge in daily ceremonies and ancient practices, offer a profound cultural experience.

For yoga lovers, Varanasi offers a unique meditation and yoga experience that is deeply intertwined with the city's spiritual atmosphere. Practicing yoga on the ghats at sunrise or visiting the city's ashrams provides a peaceful escape rooted in the city's ancient traditions.

Varanasi embodies India's spiritual depth, yet it also starkly contrasts with the chaotic and messy environment, highlighting the country's extreme duality.

Varanasi

Getting to Varanasi

Varanasi is approximately 800 kilometers east of India's capital Delhi, and is well-connected to other major cities in India by air, rail, and road, make it relatively easy to reach for travelers.

By Air

The main airport Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS) serving Varanasi is located about 26 kms northwest of the city center. It offers both domestic and international flights. There are direct flights from major cities in India like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bangalore. International flights are available from main Asian cities such as Bangkok, Kathmandu and Dubai.

By Road

Varanasi is connected to various parts of India via National Highways 19, 28, 31 and 44. Buses to Varanasi are not recommended since they are slow and uncomfortable. If you are traveling to Varanasi from nearby cities like Lucknow or Patna, private cars are good choices.

By Train

Varanasi Junction railway station (BSB) is the main train station serving the city, others are Banaras, Varanasi City, and Kashi railway stations. The city is well linked with major cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Lucknow. However, it takes a long to travel by train, for example, the train journey from Delhi to Varanasi takes about 12 to 14 hours.

India Train

Best Time to Visit Varanasi

The best time to visit Varanasi is from October to March, during the cool season when the weather is pleasant, and there are many festivals. This is also when most locals hold weddings. From April to June, it is the hot season, and it is strongly recommended to avoid visiting during this time, as daytime temperatures can soar to 104-122°F, and the power supply can be unreliable.

From July to September, it is the rainy season, with heavy flooding on the roads, causing severe traffic jams, and making travel difficult.

Top Attractions in Varanasi

Ganges River

The lifeblood of Varanasi, the Ganges River is considered the holiest river in Hinduism. The riverbanks, lined with ghats, are central to the city's spiritual and cultural life. There are over 80 ghats along the Ganges, each with its own name and purpose. From the small docks, you can take a boat to explore the Ganges, with the sunset views being especially breathtaking.

Dashashwamedh Ghat

The main and most vibrant ghat in Varanasi, famous for the evening Ganga Aarti ceremony. Here, devotees and tourists gather to witness the mesmerizing ritual of fire, chants, and prayers, performed daily along the sacred Ganges River. The steps of the ghat are lined with vendors selling flowers, tika, prayer beads, and other religious items.

Ganga Aarti Ceremony

Kashi Vishwanath Temple

One of the most revered Hindu temples, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is known for its gold-plated spire and is a major pilgrimage site, attracting millions of devotees who come to seek blessings and experience its spiritual energy.

Banaras Hindu University (BHU)

One of the largest residential universities in Asia, BHU's sprawling campus includes the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, showcasing an impressive collection of art and artifacts. The university is also home to the New Vishwanath Temple, a modern counterpart to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple.

Sarnath

Located just 10 kms outside the Varanasi, Sarnath is a significant Buddhist site where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. Today, Sarnath's Buddhist ruins include the Dhamek Stupa, the remnants of the Ashoka Pillar, Chaukhandi Mound, Mulgandha Kuti Vihar, the Archaeological Museum, as well as various temples built by different countries later on.

Cultural Etiquette and Practical Travel Tips

• Skip the Dip & Sip: While the Ganges is considered sacred, the water is quite murky. It is not recommended to take a traditional dip.
• Left Hand: In India, the left hand is considered unclean, so avoid using it for handshakes.
• Head Touching: Do not touch someone's head, as it is seen as disrespectful.
• Remove Shoes: Shoes are considered unclean. Always remove them before entering homes, religious sites, some shops, and hospitals. Never touch anyone with your feet.
• Dress Code for Religious Sites: Dress modestly when visiting religious places - avoid wearing short skirts, shorts, or sleeveless clothing. It's also best to avoid clothes with images of deities. In some Sikh temples and mosques, you'll need to cover your head.
• Photography: Never take photos of cremation ceremonies in Varanasi, it is considered highly disrespectful. Always ask for permission before photographing people bathing in the Ganges.

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If you are enchanted by this unique blend of chaos and sanctity, drop us an email at [email protected], and let it become one of the unforgettable highlights of your incredible journey through India.