Varanasi Tour

The Ganges

Mother Ganges, as the Indians call the much-revered river, is the center of life in Varanasi. From daily ablutions & mesmerizing boat rides to bedazzling river worship & compelling rituals of death ritual; the Ganges holds the center space. A walk along its many ghats is all you need to soak in the spirit of Varanasi.

Kashi Vishwanath Temple

This temple, one of the most sacred Shiva temple and a Jyotirlinga, has been in Kashi since times immemorial. Invaded-plundered-built-rebuilt; this gold-domed temple finds mention in ancient Hindu texts as the abode of Lord Shiva in Varanasi.

Assi Ghat

All Shiva devotees bathe in this ghat and pay homage to the huge Shiv Ling placed under a tree near the ghat. Located at the union of rivers Assi and Ganga, Assi Ghat gets very crowded during festive celebrations. At other times, it is a perfect place to hang around.

Dashashwamedh Ghat

The liveliest ghat of Varanasi, Dashashwamedh Ghat, is named after a ritual performed by Brahma, where he sacrificed (medh) ten (dash) horses (ashwa) in deference to Lord Shiva. This ghat is known for its ritualistic river worship every evening when the ghat is lit up with hundreds of oil lamps and reverberates with rhythmic chants of the saffron-robed priests. Be sure to reach the ghat before 6 pm for a good view of this awe-inspiring spectacle.

Manikarnika Ghat

The funeral pyres at Manikarnika Ghat present a harsh reality and a compelling sight. It is believed that final rites at this ghat promise freedom from the cycle of rebirth & death.

Other Attractions of Varanasi

• Durga temple
• Bharat Mata Temple
• New Vishwanath Temple
• Tulsi Manas Mandir
• Ramnagar Fort and Museum

Nearby Excursion

Sarnath (10kms) – This major Buddhist pilgrimage is located at the site of Buddha’s first sermon.

Fairs & Festivals of Varanasi

• Ganga Mahotsav- A cultural gala celebrating the River Ganges and the distinct culture of the city
• Sankat Mochan Sangeet Samaroh- A classical music festival
• Maha Shivratri- Dedicated to Lord Shiva
• Dev Deepawali- Dedicated to River Ganges
• Chhath Puja- Dedicated to Sun God
• Bharat Milap- Celebrating the union of Lord Rama & his brother Bharat after 14 years of exile

Shopping in Varanasi

Varanasi is famed for its gorgeous Benarasi Sarees in dazzling colors and gold-threaded patterns. Other crafts like Gulabi Minakari(pink enameled jewelry & artifacts), stone-carved images & curios, Rudrashaka Mala (rosary), and exquisite wooden toys.

Food in Varanasi

A paradise for the foodies, Varanasi is known for its mouthwatering street foods. Check out its narrow alleyways for hot jalebis & kachoris, super-soft Dahi vada, tangy tomato chat, aloo-tikkis, hot mawa milk, sweet lassi, and delicious poori-aloo.

Best Time to visit Varanasi

Varanasi is best visited in cool winter climes in from October to March.