How to plan your trip to Varanasi: Your Essential Guide to Planning a Soul-Stirring Journey

 

How to plan your trip to Varanasi

The very name Varanasi (or Kashi, Benares) evokes powerful imagery: saffron-robed sadhus, flickering diyas on the Ganges at dawn, the resonant chants of ancient rituals. It's not just a city; it's an experience that seeps into your soul. Planning a trip here isn't about ticking boxes; it's about preparing for a profound encounter. Feeling overwhelmed? Don't be! This guide is your compass for how to plan your trip to Varanasi, transforming anticipation into an unforgettable adventure.

Why Varanasi Captivates:

Imagine standing on the ghats as the first rays of sun paint the Ganges gold, watching centuries-old rituals unfold before your eyes. Varanasi is Hinduism's spiritual heart, one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities. It's intense, chaotic, deeply moving, and utterly unique. Ready to dive in?

 When, How Long & Budget

• Best Time to Visit: October to March is prime time. Pleasant days (15-25°C) and cool nights make exploring comfortable, especially for the pre-dawn boat rides. Avoid the scorching heat (April-June) and heavy monsoon rains (July-September), though the latter has its own dramatic charm.
• How Long Should You Stay? At least 3 full days is ideal. This allows time for key rituals, temple visits, exploration beyond the main ghats, and soaking in the atmosphere without rushing. Two days can work but will feel intense. Add more days for deeper immersion or day trips.
• Budgeting Basics: Varanasi caters to all. Budget travelers can thrive (hostels, street food), mid-range offers great value (comfortable guesthouses/hotels near ghats), and luxury options (heritage properties) provide serenity. Factor in boat rides, entrance fees, shopping.

How to plan your trip to Varanasi  Pre-Trip Planning Checklist

1. Accommodation: Book Early! Especially during peak season Location Matters.

o    Ghat-Front: Immersive but can be noisy. Great for views and easy ritual access. (e.g., Assi, Dashashwamedh areas).

o    Lanes Behind Ghats: Quieter, atmospheric, often heritage stays. Short walk to the river. (Godowlia area is popular).

o    Cantonment/Varanasi City: More modern, quieter, further from the main ghats. Requires auto-rickshaws.

2. Getting There & Around:

o    By Air: Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS) connects to major Indian cities. Pre-book a taxi/auto to your hotel.

o    By Train: Varanasi Junction (BSB) and Mughal Sarai Junction (MGS) are major hubs. Book trains well in advance via IRCTC.

o    Getting Around: Walking is best in the old city lanes. Auto-rickshaws for longer distances (agree on fare first!). Cycle-rickshaws offer a slow but scenic option. Forget cars in the old city!

3. What to Pack:

o    Modest Clothing: Cover shoulders and knees, especially for temples. Light, breathable fabrics (cotton, linen).

o    Comfortable Walking Shoes: Essential for navigating uneven ghats and lanes.

o    Scarf/Stole: Versatile for modesty, sun, or cool evenings.

o    Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated; use filtered/bottled water.

o    Respectful Attitude: An open mind and heart are your most important luggage.

Image Credit @ Pixabay
Varanasi Ghat

    Experiencing the Soul of Varanasi - Must-Do Activities

Now, the heart of how to plan your trip to Varanasi: curating your experience!

1. Sunrise Boat Ride on the Ganges: Non-negotiable. Glide past the ghats as the city awakens. Witness pilgrims bathing, priests performing rituals, and the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti from the water. Hire a boat at Assi or Dashashwamedh Ghat before dawn. (Pro-tip: Negotiate price clearly beforehand).
2. Witness the Ganga Aarti: The Dashashwamedh Ganga Aarti is a spectacular sensory overload of fire, chanting, bells, and devotion. Arrive early (around 5 PM) to secure a good spot on the ghat or watch from a boat. The quieter Assi Ghat Aarti at sunrise offers a different, more intimate vibe.
3. Explore the Maze of Ghats: Each ghat has a story.
• Dashashwamedh Ghat: The main hub for the Aarti.
• Assi Ghat: Southernmost, confluence with Assi river, popular with pilgrims and students.
• Manikarnika Ghat: The primary cremation ghat. Observe respectfully from a distance or a boat – photography is strictly prohibited and disrespectful here.
• Harishchandra Ghat: Another cremation ghat.
• Panchganga Ghat: Where five rivers are said to meet.
• Man Mandir Ghat: Features a historic observatory.
• Scindia Ghat: Picturesque, with a partially submerged Shiva temple.
4. Wander the Ancient Lanes (Gallis): Get gloriously lost! The narrow alleys behind the ghats are Varanasi's lifeline. Discover hidden temples, vibrant bazaars (silk, brassware, religious items), chai stalls, and the raw, unfiltered energy of the city. Embrace the chaos.
5. Seek Blessings at Sacred Temples:
• Kashi Vishwanath Temple (Golden Temple): Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the most revered. Expect long queues; security is tight (lockers for phones/bags available).
• Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple: Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, known for its peaceful atmosphere and evening prayers. Famous for its monkeys!
• Durga Temple: Vibrant red structure, home to many resident monkeys.
• Bharat Mata Temple: Unique temple featuring a marble relief map of undivided India.
6. Savor the Flavors: Varanasi is a foodie paradise, especially for vegetarians.
• Street Food: Try kachori sabzi, chaat (tamarind & yogurt treats), litti chokha, malaiyo (seasonal frothy dessert), and piping hot jalebis. Choose clean, busy stalls.
• Thandai & Lassi: Refreshing yoghurt-based drinks.
• Sweet Shops: Sample pedas, rabri, and lal peda.
7. Discover Silk & Crafts: Varanasi is legendary for its Banarasi silk sarees. Explore shops in Vishwanath Gali and Godowlia. Also look for intricate brassware, wooden toys, and rudraksha beads. Bargaining is expected in smaller shops.
8. Venture Beyond: Day Trips:
• Sarnath (10 km): Where Buddha gave his first sermon. Visit the Dhamek Stupa, Ashoka Pillar, ruins, and museums. A serene contrast to Varanasi.
• Ramnagar Fort (14 km): Across the Ganges, a crumbling 18th-century fort with a museum showcasing vintage cars and royal artifacts.

Essential Tips for a Smooth Journey:

• Respect is Paramount: This is a deeply sacred city. Dress modestly, ask permission before photographing people (especially sadhus), remove shoes at temples/homes, and be mindful at cremation ghats.
• Stay Hydrated & Eat Smart: Drink bottled/filtered water. Be cautious with street food; opt for freshly cooked, piping-hot items.
• Beware of Touts: Politely but firmly decline unwanted "guides," boat offers, or directions. Stick to your plan.
• Embrace the Pace: Varanasi operates on its own rhythm. Slow down, observe, absorb. Don't try to cram too much in.
• Cash is King: While cards are accepted in larger hotels/stores, carry sufficient cash (especially smaller denominations) for ghats, small shops, rickshaws, and donations.

Your Varanasi Awaits

Planning your trip to Varanasi is the first step on a journey that promises to be unlike any other. It’s a city that challenges, inspires, and ultimately transforms. By preparing thoughtfully – knowing the best times, booking wisely, packing appropriately, and approaching with respect and openness – you unlock the door to an experience steeped in spirituality, history, and raw human energy.

So, take a deep breath, embrace the vibrant chaos, and let the eternal rhythm of the Ganges guide you. Varanasi isn't just a destination; it's a pilgrimage for the senses and the soul. Start planning your unforgettable encounter today!