Looking for your next escape? Varanasi delivers: india's oldest living city on the Ganga. Here is everything you need to plan a trip.
- Best time
- October to March
- Budget
- ₹
- Nearest airport
- VNS
Why visit Varanasi
Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh) is known for its spiritual, heritage and culture experiences. Overall it is budget-friendly — hostels, homestays and local food keep costs low.
Best time to go
The best time to visit is October to March.
Top things to do
- Sunrise boat ride along the ghats
- Ganga aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat
- Walking the old city lanes
- Sarnath, where the Buddha gave his first sermon
Planning ahead? See Varanasi hotels for 20 Nov to 23 Nov.
What to eat
- Kachori sabzi for breakfast
- Banarasi paan
- Malaiyo in winter
How to get there
Fly into Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport or take one of many trains to Varanasi Junction.
Where to stay
- Assi Ghat for cafés and calm
- Dashashwamedh area for the aarti
- Cantonment for modern hotels
Insider tip
Hire a boat at dawn rather than evening — the light and the quiet are worth the early alarm.
What to pack
Questions travellers ask
When is the best time to visit Varanasi?
October to March.
How do I reach Varanasi?
Fly into Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport or take one of many trains to Varanasi Junction.
Where should I stay in Varanasi?
Popular choices: Assi Ghat for cafés and calm; Dashashwamedh area for the aarti; Cantonment for modern hotels.
This guide contains affiliate links. Timings, fees and entry rules change, so check official sources before you travel.
