Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Banaras, is a city that pulsates with spiritual energy along the banks of the sacred Ganges River. As one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, Varanasi holds profound cultural and religious significance. This travel guide will lead you through the narrow winding streets, ghats, and temples of Varanasi, providing valuable information on prices for accommodation, dining, transportation, and activities.

General Information

• Languages: Hindi is the official language, but many locals also speak English, especially in tourist areas.
• Currency: Indian Rupee (INR)
• History: Varanasi is steeped in history, dating back thousands of years. Explore the ancient ghats, temples, and the narrow lanes of the old city.
• Religious Significance: Varanasi is a major pilgrimage site for Hindus and is considered the spiritual capital of India.
  

Main Attractions

1. Ghats: Begin your exploration by wandering along the ghats lining the Ganges River. Dashashwamedh Ghat and Manikarnika Ghat are particularly significant.
2. Temples: Visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, and the iconic Golden Temple (not to be confused with the one in Amritsar).
3. Ganga Aarti: Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat, a daily ritual that captivates visitors with its spiritual ambiance.
   

Transportation Examples

• Auto-rickshaws: A popular mode of transportation within the city, with prices starting from 50 INR for short distances.
• Cycle-rickshaws: An eco-friendly option for navigating narrow lanes, with fares starting at 20 INR.
• Boat Rides: Explore the Ganges by boat, with prices ranging from 200 INR to 1,000 INR, depending on the duration and type of boat.
  

Itinerary

Day 1-3: Ghats Exploration

• Explore Dashashwamedh Ghat and attend the Ganga Aarti
• Wander through the narrow lanes of the old city
• Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple and Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple
  

Day 4-6: Spiritual Retreat

• Participate in a morning boat ride on the Ganges
• Experience a yoga and meditation session at one of the ashrams
• Visit the Golden Temple and other prominent ghats like Manikarnika and Assi Ghat
  

Day 7-9: Cultural Immersion

• Explore the Banaras Hindu University and its Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum
• Visit the Ramnagar Fort and Museum
• Discover the traditional silk weaving industry in Varanasi
  
  

Prices

Accommodation:

• Budget Accommodation: Guesthouses and budget hotels start from approximately 500 INR to 2,000 INR per night.
• Mid-Range Hotels: Comfortable mid-range hotels may cost between 2,000 INR and 5,000 INR per night.
• Heritage Hotels: Varanasi has heritage accommodations with prices ranging from 5,000 INR to 15,000 INR per night.
  

Dining:

• Street Food and Local Eateries: Budget-friendly options for street food and local eateries can range from 50 INR to 200 INR per meal.
• Mid-Range Restaurants: Dining in mid-range restaurants may cost between 200 INR and 500 INR per person.
• Fine Dining:* Upscale dining experiences can start from 1,000 INR per person and go higher.
  

Transportation:

• Auto-rickshaws and Cycle-rickshaws: Local transportation within the city may cost between 20 INR and 100 INR, depending on the distance.
• Boat Rides: Boat ride prices on the Ganges can vary, ranging from 200 INR for a shared boat to 1,000 INR for a private boat.
  

Activities:

• Entrance Fees: Many temples have nominal entrance fees ranging from 10 INR to 100 INR.
• Boat Rides: Prices for boat rides on the Ganges start from 200 INR for a shared boat.
  

Miscellaneous:

• SIM Cards: Prepaid SIM cards with data can be purchased for around 100 INR to 500 INR.
• Bottled Water: A bottle of water is typically around 20 INR.
• Traditional Clothing: Consider purchasing traditional clothing like sarees or dhotis, with prices starting from 500 INR.
  

Varanasi, with its spiritual aura and rich cultural tapestry, invites you to embark on a soul-stirring journey along the sacred Ganges. Use this guide to plan your itinerary and budget, keeping in mind the cultural nuances and the unique experiences that Varanasi offers. The city awaits, ready to immerse you in its timeless traditions and spiritual vibrancy.

What else can you do…

• Experience Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat:
  • Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat, where priests perform rituals and prayers to the sacred Ganges River.
    
• Take a Boat Ride on the Ganges:
  • Explore the spiritual essence of Varanasi by taking a boat ride along the Ganges River, witnessing the ghats and rituals.
    
• Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple:
  • Pay homage to Lord Shiva at Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu temples, known for its golden spire.
    
• Explore Sarnath:
  • Visit Sarnath, the place where Buddha gave his first sermon, and explore the Dhamek Stupa and the Archaeological Museum.
    
• Stroll Through the Ghats:
  • Take a leisurely walk along the ghats of Varanasi, each with its unique charm and significance.
    
• Discover Manikarnika Ghat:
  • Visit Manikarnika Ghat, the main cremation ghat in Varanasi, and witness the rituals associated with the final rites.
    
• Explore Assi Ghat:
  • Experience the tranquility of Assi Ghat, known for its peaceful surroundings and as a popular spot for meditation.
    
• Visit Tulsi Manas Temple:
  • Explore Tulsi Manas Temple, dedicated to Lord Rama, and admire the intricate carvings depicting the Ramayana.
    
• Participate in Ganga Saptami:
  • If visiting during Ganga Saptami, join the celebrations along the ghats, marking the descent of the Ganges to Earth.
    
• Witness Aarti at Tulsi Ghat:
  • Experience the serene Aarti ceremony at Tulsi Ghat, offering a more intimate atmosphere compared to Dashashwamedh Ghat.
    
• Explore Banaras Hindu University (BHU):
  • Visit Banaras Hindu University, one of the largest residential universities in Asia, and explore the campus and the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum.
    
• Enjoy Banarasi Silk Shopping:
  • Indulge in shopping for exquisite Banarasi silk sarees, a traditional craft of Varanasi.
    
• Visit Bharat Mata Temple:
  • Explore Bharat Mata Temple, dedicated to Mother India, with a unique map of undivided India carved in marble.
    
• Experience Dev Deepawali:
  • If visiting in November, experience Dev Deepawali, a grand festival with illuminated ghats and cultural performances.
    
• Discover Kedar Ghat:
  • Visit Kedar Ghat, known for its ancient Shiva temple and serene ambiance, away from the bustling crowds.
    
• Attend Ramlila Performance:
  • If visiting during Navaratri, attend a Ramlila performance depicting the story of Lord Rama.
    
• Explore Durga Temple:
  • Visit Durga Temple, known for its red-colored facade and the divine presence of Goddess Durga.
    
• Take a Dip in the Ganges:
  • Participate in the sacred act of taking a dip in the Ganges, believed to purify the soul.
    
• Visit Nepali Temple:
  • Explore the unique Nepali Temple, also known as the Kathwala Temple, with its pagoda-style architecture.
    
• Experience Kumbh Mela (during designated years):
  • If your visit coincides with the Kumbh Mela, immerse yourself in the grandeur of this massive religious gathering.
    
• Discover Alamgir Mosque:
  • Explore Alamgir Mosque, situated on the Panchganga Ghat, showcasing a blend of Hindu and Mughal architecture.
    
• Participate in Ganga Dussehra:
  • If visiting during Ganga Dussehra, witness the celebration of the Ganges River and the special rituals.
    
• Visit St. Mary’s Church:
  • Explore St. Mary’s Church, built during the British era, showcasing colonial architecture.
    
• Discover Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple:
  • Visit Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple, located near the Manikarnika Ghat, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
    
• Explore Kachori Gali:
  • Savor the local flavors at Kachori Gali, known for its variety of kachoris and other street food delicacies.
    

Varanasi, with its spiritual aura and cultural richness, offers a profound experience for those seeking a connection with tradition and divinity.