+91-8094253150 M-F 8-7, Sat 9-1 CT or
speak to your travel professional

Varanasi

"The National Capital of India"

“Divine House for Pilgrims”

The spiritual capital of India, Varanasi is an ancient living city also known as Kashi (City of Life) and Benaras. Lies on the western bank of the Ganges, it is highly revered by Hindu pilgrims for its age-old colossal temples that spread spirituality all around. Earlier, the City of Lights is renowned for the fine silk traded all across the country. The holy city is dated back to 3000 years back and is subsequently become a home of people of almost every religion. With so many religious shrines, rituals, and spiritual beliefs, Varanasi is one of the most frequently visited tourist destinations in India that fascinates the international tourists with its mesmerizing divine charm, warm hospitality, and cultural rituals.

Things to do:

Evening Aarti and its rituals - Attending an evening aarti ceremony in Varanasi is certainly the once-in-a-lifetime moment. During the spectacular events, the ghats turn lively with beautiful rituals and customs. Brass lamps of large sizes are used during the aarti to worship gods and goddesses, which is accompanied by chants and crowds of devotees.

A Holy bath in the Ganges - The River Ganges is considered to be the Holiest Hindu River taking a dip is believed to be the purification of soul and salvation of sins. When passing through the Ghats, you’ll find pilgrims taking bath in the holy river with all the rituals and customs.

A boat ride during sunrise - Sailing on boats during the dawn is perhaps a memorable moment after all. The ride offers breathtaking views of the Holy River when the color and serenity of the place will leave you to enthrall. While riding you’ll find Sadhus and pilgrims bathing and performing prayers in the temples.

Shopping in Varanasi - The best thing to do in leisure time is shopping for its famous silk saris and ornate jewels. Strolling around the local markets to shop for souvenirs like elaborate zari or silk saris, shawls, carpets, stone inlay work, bangles, and idols.

Best time to visit:

October to March is considered the ideal time to visit the city. Also, a five-day-long festival of Ganga Mahotsav is celebrated in the month of November every year with zeal and enthusiasm that makes the city lively. Summers experiences hot and dry temperatures, while monsoon brings a pleasant change with rainfall. Thus the winter season is the best time to enjoy holidays in Varanasi.

Recommended Tours

Major tourist spots in Varanasi

Ganges Ghats

The River Ganges in Varanasi has more than 100 ghats alongside the river where pilgrims and inhabitants flocks around for offering prayers and meditate for inner peace. Some of the most revered ghats in Varanasi include Assi Ghat, Dashashwamedh Ghat, and Manikarnika Ghat. It gets lively, during the evening aarti ceremony with lights of little lamps, sandalwood fragrance, and pilgrims.

Kashi Vishwanath Temple

One of the 12 Jyotirlingas, Kashi Vishwanath Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is highly revered by the pilgrim. The holiest temple is believed to have been the site where Lord Shiva appeared in the form of lights. Thousands and Millions of devotees thronged every year to this temple during the celebration of Diwali and Shivratri.

Ramnagar Fort & Museum

The former residence of the king of Varanasi, Ramnagar Fort was established during the 1750 AD. Constructed entirely with red stones, the fort gains the major attention of tourists for its astronomical wonder. Its premises comprises of a big clock in the palace that depicts the day, week, month, year, and details of the astronomy of the space objects. Inside the museum, it has a great collection of swords, costumes, artifacts, palanquins, and more.

Sarnath

Located 10 kilometers away from the heart of Varanasi, Sarnath is the most prominent Buddhist pilgrimage spot in India. It is a place where Lord Budhha’s first sermon after attaining enlightenment at Bodh Gaya was delivered. The tallest statue of Buddha in the country is located in Sarnath which is a major highlight of this hotspot.

Chunar Fort

Settled on the banks of the river Ganges, Chunar Fort is almost 40 km away from the city. The massive fortress of 34000 square feet is famous for its rich antiquity. It was under the control of various rulers and their artifacts are well-displayed inside its premises.

Book Online