Varanasi is a holy city which is found on the Ganges River’s bank. It is rich in spiritual, historical, and cultural significance. Known as one of the world’s oldest living cities, it presents an enthralling mix of ancient customs and new-generation existence. Its renowned ghats, temples, lively markets, and tasty food take guests on a voyage of deep self-discoveries and adventure. To experience the most out of this holy city, visit the city during festivals like Dussehra and Diwali. Book a cab in Varanasi on a full-day package and enjoy the spiritual vibes that this ancient city has to offer.
Things to Do
Varanasi is your gateway to the sacred and divine. Boost your journey by discovering the city using our trustworthy car hire service in Varanasi.
Early Morning Boat Ride
If you’re in Varanasi, the top pick is to row a boat in the Ganga River. It is ideal in the early daybreak. You can witness an all-encompassing look at the river and nearby spots. The best time to ride is from 5:30 to 8 in the morning.
A Dip Into the Ganges
Varanasi is known for its spiritual sparkle. It’s important to take a dip into the river. Globally, devout visitors come to bathe and attain moksha, breaking free from the cycles of life and death.
Taste popular street food
Absorb the city market’s lively and local treats like chaat, an enticing blend of crunchy fried bread, tangy dips, and fragrant spices, bursting with taste. Cool down with a luscious glass of lassi, a traditional yogurt drink splashed with flavours such as saffron, rose, or mango.
Offbeat Experiences
These unique adventures show a fresh side of Varanasi. They let you dive into its rich culture and find hidden gems not found in regular tourist hotspots.
Check Out Festivals and Carnivals
Varanasi is busy with many exhibitions and gatherings throughout the year. These events are the highlights of Varanasi. Some well-liked ones include Bharat Milap Mela, Mahashivtratri, Budhha Purnima, and Dhrupad Mela.
Yoga on the Rooftop
Check out the view overlooking Varanasi’s ghats. Learn yoga from skilled teachers helping you nail the peaceful poses and meditation methods amidst the serene beauty of the city.
Bike Ride
Discover Varanasi’s secret treasures with a bicycle trip. Plunge into unseen streets, captivating lanes, and uncommon temples often overlooked by regular tours.
Unique Nightlife
Varanasi, famous for its cultural and spiritual vitality, provides a one-of-a-kind nightlife. It cleverly mixes historic customs with a sprinkle of the contemporary touch.
Ganga Aarti
Witness the captivating Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat. It’s where priests sing praises to the river goddess using fire-lit lamps and incense. This evening landscape is a mix of spirituality and magic.
Enjoy Evening Twilights at the Ghats
A walk in the Ghats during twilight is a memory to cherish. The Ghats that are must-sees include Assi Ghat, Dashashwamedh Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, and Scindia Ghat.
Dinner on the shore of Assi Ghat
Take a relaxing moment and eat at genuine Indian eateries there. Treat yourself to mithai and laddoos, traditional lassi from fruit, and paan, there will be no letup for your dessert cravings.
Shopping at Varanasi
- Banarasi Silk Sarees are a specialty of Varanasi. They’re known for complex designs, vibrant embroidery, and a rich colour palette, making them special occasion favourites.
- Items like jewellery, boxes, and decorative pieces featuring Gulabi Meenakari are unique to Varanasi.
Places to Explore
Being one of the world’s oldest cities, it has a lot to offer. It’s full of spiritual and historical places.
Temples
- Kashi Vishwanath: A significant spot dedicated to Shiva, stands out with golden towers.
- Annapurna Temple: A space centered around the goddess of nourishment, is where followers hope for prosperity and food blessings.
- Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple: It is a home to Hanuman, where people go in search of solutions to life’s challenges.
Markets
- Vishwanath Gali: You’ll find Banarasi sarees, religious items, and keepsakes in this vibrant area.
- Thatheri Bazaar: A place teeming with brassware and metal handiworks, a trove of traditional goods.
- Godowlia Market: It buzzes with activity, cloth stalls, jewelry vendors, handicrafts, and mouth-watering street food.
Historical Sites
- Sarnath: This nearby Varanasi attraction holds great historical and cultural significance. Here, the famous Dhamek Stupa and Ashoka Pillar are situated. It’s where Buddha delivered his very first sermon.
- Ramnagar Fort: It is a haven of heritage situated at the Ganges’ eastern brink. Built in the 18th century, its museum showcases antique armaments, vintage vehicles, and relics.
Cultural Adventures
- Banaras Hindu University (BHU): This well-known learning institution boasts a wide-reaching campus. You’ll find Bharat Kala Bhavan museum on-site, where an impressive collection of Indian art and artefacts awaits your exploration.
- Dussehra festival: It’s when the Ramnagar Ramlila happens. Over the course of several nights, performers bring the Hindu epic Ramayana to life in this dramatic play.
Dining options
Varanasi offers a special treat with its tasty local street food. This food is a perfect mix of Indian tradition and flavour. The following are some of the best options:
- The Street Food
- Brown Bread Cafe
- Vishnu Tea Emporium
- The Blue Lassi Shop
Varanasi Travel Guide
By Flight
The nearest airport to Varanasi is Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport. You’ll find it 26 km away in a place called Babatpur. From here, Book an airport taxi in Varanasi to reach your destination comfortably.
By Train
Two key train stations in Varanasi are Kashi Junction and Varanasi Junction which provide rail links. They connect with major Indian cities.
By Road
From neighboring cities like Allahabad or Noida, book a private taxi to reach Varanasi from Allahabad or other nearby cities. From distant cities, you can reach by bus.
Best Time To Visit
Varanasi should be explored in pleasant weather from October to March.
Experience the magic of Varanasi with proper planning. Book a car rental and local driver to explore its wonders seamlessly. Install the cab booking app for exclusive offers and discounts on outstation rentals!