Varanasi, a city situated on the banks of the holy river Ganges, is known for its rich history, culture, and spirituality. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world with a legacy that dates back to over 3000 years. Varanasi is a vibrant city, offering a plethora of attractions and things to do that are sure to captivate any traveler. From exploring the narrow lanes of the old city to experiencing the grandeur of ancient temples and spiritual centers, Varanasi has something for everyone. In this post, we will explore some of the best attractions and things to do in Varanasi so that you can make the most of your time in this magical city.

The 5 Best Crazy Things to Do in Varanasi

1. 3 Day Varanasi Exclusive Tour
2. 3 Day Varanasi Exclusive Pilgrimage Tour
3. Banaras Tour
4. 08 Hours Private Full Day City Tour of Jaipur
5. Agra Local Sightseeing

The 5 Best Crazy Things to Do in Varanasi

1. 3 Day Varanasi Exclusive Tour

This three-day Varanasi Exclusive Tour is perfect for those who want to see the city like a local. Discover the top attractions of this holy city including the Ganga Ghats, Hindu temples, Buddhist landmarks, and much more. You’ll travel like a local with a professional English-speaking private guide who will take care of everything.

The tour includes two nights’ accommodation at Hotel Ramada Plaza JHV Madin Rivatas by Ideal Radisson or similar on a double occupancy basis, buffet breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Tips are also included.

The tour starts with pickup at Varanasi Airport and includes pickup at Varanasi Railway Station, DDU Railway Station, and Maduadih Railway Station. Start time is at 12:00 PM.

Explore Varanasi’s best attractions and things to do with this three-day exclusive tour.

2. 3 Day Varanasi Exclusive Pilgrimage Tour

This 3 Day Varanasi Exclusive Pilgrimage Tour provides an intimate and personalized experience for those looking to discover Varanasi’s spiritual side. Accommodation for two nights is included at Hotel Ramada Plaza JHV Madin Rivatas by Ideal Radisson or similar on a double occupancy basis. A private English-speaking guide will lead you through the city’s holy sites and provide context on the area’s deep-rooted religious history. The tour also includes a priest or personal ritual, as well as lunch and dinner. Pickup can be arranged at Varanasi Airport or Varanasi/Banaras/DDU Railway Station. This tour requires a minimum of two people per booking and is wheelchair accessible. Please note that this experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason.

3. Banaras Tour

The ancient and sacred city of Banaras, also known as Varanasi, is a must-visit destination in India. During this action-packed tour, you’ll explore the top attractions of the city hassle-free, with everything taken care of for you. You’ll start by cruising on the Ganges River at sunrise, followed by visits to fascinating archaeological sites and stunning temple interiors. The highlight of the tour is the famous fire prayer, an aarti, which you’ll experience from the front row. All entrance fees, drinks, and hotel transfers are included, so you can enjoy your day in Banaras without any worries. Book now and discover the beauty and spirituality of this vibrant city.

4. 08 Hours Private Full Day City Tour of Jaipur

This private full-day city tour of Jaipur is perfect for those who want to see the best of the city in just eight hours. With a professional English-speaking guide and private transport provided for the whole day, you’ll be able to sit back and relax as you explore Jaipur’s top attractions.

The tour includes a thrilling elephant ride at Amber fort and admission to all the monuments visited. Starting with a visit to the City Palace of Jaipur, you’ll have two hours to explore the palace and its beautiful architecture.

Please note that admission tickets are not included in the tour price.

Pick up and drop off is provided to your hotel or the airport in Jaipur. Infant seats are not available so this tour is not suitable for young children. Unfortunately, it’s also not wheelchair accessible.

If you need to cancel, you can do so up to 24 hours before the experience’s start time for a full refund. However, if you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour starts, you won’t be refunded.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to experience the best of Jaipur in just one day!

5. Agra Local Sightseeing

Explore the famous landmarks of Agra on this full-day sightseeing tour, starting at 7:00 AM. You will be picked up from Varanasi Airport/Railway Stations and driven to the meeting point at Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport in Babatpur, Uttar Pradesh. A professional guide will accompany you throughout the tour.

Visit the iconic Banaras Ghats and Dasaswamedh Ghat and explore their vivid colors and vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy a full day of exploring Agra’s popular tourist spots as you learn about the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Transportation is provided by a private vehicle, and lunch and dinner meals are included in the tour package. Gratuities are also included.

Please note that this tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers or people with heart problems or other serious medical conditions. The tour is also not wheelchair accessible. Passports are required for all participants at the time of booking.

Cancellation is possible up to 24 hours before the scheduled tour. Book your Agra Local Sightseeing tour today and experience the best of what this magnificent city has to offer!

Frequently Asked Questions About Varanasi

Varanasi, also known as Banaras or Kashi, is one of the oldest and sacred cities in India. Located on the banks of the Ganges River, Varanasi is famous for its temples, cultural heritage, and ancient traditions. Every year, millions of tourists from around the world visit Varanasi to experience its unique charm and spirituality. However, before planning your trip to Varanasi, it is essential to have certain information to make the most of your time there. In this blog post, we have answered some of the most frequently asked questions about Varanasi.

1. What is the best time to visit Varanasi?

The best time to visit Varanasi is during the winter season, which falls between November to February. The temperature ranges between 15°C to 25°C during these months, making it an ideal climate for tourists to explore the city. Moreover, winter is the time when the city celebrates some of its most popular festivals, such as the Dev Deepawali and Ganga Mahotsav.

2. How to reach Varanasi?

Varanasi is well-connected by road, rail, and air. The Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport is located about 26 km from the city. It is connected to most major cities in India, such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata. Varanasi Junction Railway Station is one of the busiest railway stations in India and is well-connected to major cities in India. Regular buses also operate from neighboring cities to Varanasi.

3. What are the must-visit places in Varanasi?

Varanasi has a lot to offer to tourists in terms of attractions. The following are some of the must-visit places in Varanasi:

a. Kashi Vishwanath Temple:

Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most revered shrines for Hindus. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is believed to be one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India.

b. Dashashwamedh Ghat:

Dashashwamedh Ghat is one of the oldest and most popular ghats in Varanasi. It is known for its evening Aarti, which is a spiritual ceremony that takes place every day.

c. Sarnath:

Sarnath is a very famous Buddhist pilgrimage site located about 10 km from Varanasi. It is believed to be the place where Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment.

d. Assi Ghat:

Assi Ghat is located at the confluence of the Ganges and Assi rivers. It is known for its beautiful sunrise and is a popular spot for tourists to take a dip in the river.

4. What are the famous festivals celebrated in Varanasi?

Varanasi is known for its vibrant festivals and celebrations. The following are some of the popular festivals celebrated in Varanasi:

a. Dev Deepawali:

Dev Deepawali is one of the most beautiful festivals celebrated in Varanasi. It falls on the full moon day in the month of Kartik and is a celebration of the homecoming of Lord Shiva after a long exile.

b. Ganga Mahotsav:

Ganga Mahotsav is a festival that celebrates the glory of River Ganges. It is held for five days from the Prabodhini Ekadashi to Kartik Poornima.

c. Mahashivratri:

Mahashivratri is a festival dedicated to Lord Shiva and is celebrated in the month of Phalguna. Devotees fast on this day and visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple to offer prayers.

5. What is the dress code for visiting Varanasi?

Varanasi is a conservative city, and it is recommended to dress modestly while visiting the city. It is advisable to avoid short skirts, shorts, and sleeveless tops. Women are recommended to wear Indian attire such as salwar kameez or sarees.

6. What are the popular street foods in Varanasi?

Varanasi is famous for its street food, and foodies can try out some of the local delicacies such as chaat, lassi, kachori, and samosas. The vendors at the famous Kachori Gali offer some of the best kachoris in Varanasi.

7. Can tourists take a boat ride in Varanasi?

Varanasi is known for its boat rides along the Ganges river. The boat rides are available both during the day and at night. Tourists can also take a guided tour of the river, which provides more insight into the city’s culture.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Varanasi

Varanasi, also known as Banaras or Kashi, is the spiritual capital of India. It is renowned for its ghats, temples, and the River Ganges. The city is steeped deep in Hinduism and has a unique charm that attracts travelers from all over the world. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Varanasi.

Arriving in Varanasi

The best way to reach Varanasi is by air, train or road. If you are coming from Delhi, there are several trains that run to Varanasi on a daily basis. The nearest airport is the Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, which is located in Babatpur, about 18 km from the city center. Once you reach the city, it is best to hire a local guide who can help navigate the narrow streets and provide you with valuable insight into the city’s culture and tradition.

Exploring the Ghats

Varanasi is best explored on foot, and there is no better place to start than the ghats. There are a total of 87 ghats in Varanasi, each with its own unique story and significance. The most famous of these is the Dashashwamedh Ghat, which is the place where Lord Brahma is said to have sacrificed ten horses in a yajna. Other notable ghats include the Manikarnika Ghat, where Hindu cremations take place, and the Assi Ghat, which is at the confluence of the River Ganges and Assi.

Activities at the Ghats

There are several activities that you can indulge in at the ghats, such as taking a boat ride, watching the daily rituals, and offering prayers to the River Ganges. Early morning boat rides are particularly popular as they offer a unique perspective of the ghats and the city. You can also participate in the evening aarti, which is a devotional song and ritual that takes place every evening on the ghats. The aarti is a captivating experience that involves fire, water, and music.

Visiting the Temples

Varanasi is home to several ancient temples, each with its own unique architecture and history. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is the most famous of these, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is located in the heart of the city and is visited by thousands of devotees every day. Other notable temples include the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, the Durga Temple, and the Tulsi Manas Temple.

Temple Customs and Practices

Visitors to the temples are expected to dress modestly and remove their shoes before entering. Photography is generally not allowed inside the temple, and visitors are expected to maintain silence and decorum. It is also customary to offer prayer and make a donation at the temple.

Tasting Varanasi Cuisine

Varanasi has a rich culinary tradition that is unique to the region. Local delicacies include the famous Banarasi Paan, which is a betel leaf filled with various ingredients such as coconut and rose petals. Other must-try dishes include the Kachori Sabzi, Baati Chokha, and Lassi.

Where to Eat

There are several restaurants and street food joints in Varanasi that offer local cuisine. Some of the most popular ones include the Kachori Gali in Godowlia, the Blue Lassi Shop in Chowk, and the Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe in Assi Ghat.

Shopping in Varanasi

Varanasi is famous for its silks and handicrafts, which are made using traditional methods. You can shop for a variety of items such as silk sarees, carpets, brassware, and wooden toys. The best places to shop are the Vishwanath Gali, Godowlia Market, and Lahurabir Market.

Tips for Shopping

Bargaining is expected when shopping in Varanasi, so be sure to negotiate before making a purchase. It is also advisable to purchase items from government-approved shops to ensure authenticity and quality.

Book Your Tour Now

Varanasi is a city that is steeped in tradition and culture. From the ghats to the temples, there is something for everyone in this fascinating city. By following this guide, you can make the most of your time in Varanasi and experience the best that the city has to offer.