Varanasi – Discovering the Spiritual Capital of India

Varanasi, also known as Benares, is a city unlike any other. The energy and chaos that surround this ancient city may be overwhelming, but it is captivating and deeply spiritual. Most of Varanasi’s activities center around the river Ganges. Here’s our guide to the top things to do in Varanasi.

How to get to Varanasi

Arrival by train

Varanasi Junction is one of India’s busiest railway stations, offering numerous train connections to cities all over the country. Many hotels and hostels offer pick-up services for a hassle-free arrival. Expect to pay INR 50-200 (€0.60-€2.40) for a trip from the train station. Our recommended platform to book train tickets is 12GO.

Arrival by plane

Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport offers both domestic and limited international flights to destinations such as Thailand, Sri Lanka, UAE, and Nepal. The airport is approximately 25 minutes from the city center.

🚖 Pre-paid Taxi: Available at the airport, these taxis are safe and convenient, with a fixed fare of approximately INR 500-800 (€6-€10) one way.
🚗 Uber/Ola: These ride-sharing apps offer affordable and convenient rides to the city center, costing around INR 500-600 (€5-€6) one way.

What to do in Varanasi

Morning and Evening Aarti

Experiencing the morning and evening aarti ceremonies in Varanasi is absolutely essential. The evening aarti, known as the Ganga aarti, is a breathtaking and spiritual event held daily at Dashashwamedh Ghat. Thousands of people, including many pilgrims, gather to offer prayers and light to the Ganges River. The ghat is illuminated with lights, and the air is filled with the sounds of prayers and music—it’s truly a sight to behold.

For the best view of the Ganga aarti, we recommend heading down to the boats on the river. Although there are many tourists, finding a spot on a non-tourist boat with locals can give you a more authentic experience. The ceremony lasts around 30-45 minutes and is something you won’t forget.

Besides the evening Ganga aarti, there’s also a morning aarti ceremony at Assi Ghat. This ritual takes place early in the morning, starting between 5 and 5:30 a.m. It may not be as crowded as the evening ceremony, but the morning aarti is equally beautiful and spiritual, offering a different perspective on the Ganges River and its significance in Hindu culture.

Exploring the Ghats of Varanasi

Varanasi, one of the oldest living cities in the world, is renowned for its ghats—steps leading down to the banks of the Ganges River. Each ghat has its own unique history, significance, and activities. Here are some of the most noteworthy ghats you should explore during your visit:

• Dashashwamedh Ghat: Dashashwamedh Ghat is the most prominent and busiest ghat in Varanasi. It is famous for the evening Ganga aarti, a mesmerizing ritual where priests perform prayers with fire lamps accompanied by chanting, music, and the ringing of bells. Thousands of people, including pilgrims and tourists, gather here to witness this spiritual spectacle. The atmosphere is electric, with the ghat illuminated by lights and filled with the sound of prayers. For the best view, consider watching the aarti from a boat on the river, ideally sharing the experience with locals for a more authentic feel.

• Assi Ghat: Assi Ghat is located at the southern end of Varanasi and is a bit quieter compared to Dashashwamedh Ghat. It is known for its morning aarti, which starts between 5 and 5:30 a.m. This ceremony welcomes the dawn with prayers and music, offering a peaceful and spiritual start to the day. Assi Ghat is also a popular spot for yoga sessions and leisurely strolls along the riverbank.

• Manikarnika Ghat (Burning Ghat): Manikarnika Ghat is one of the most sacred and significant ghats in Varanasi. It serves as a cremation ground where about 28,000 cremations take place every year, operating 24/7. According to Hindu beliefs, being cremated at Manikarnika Ghat allows the soul to break the cycle of rebirth and attain moksha (liberation). Visitors can witness the entire cremation process, which involves washing the body in the Ganges before transporting it to the designated cremation area. Holy rituals are performed, and a pyre of wood is created for the body to be set on fire until it is fully burned. Afterward, the ashes are thrown into the river. This ritual is deeply moving and can have a strong emotional impact on observers. It is important to note that taking photographs at Manikarnika Ghat is forbidden out of respect for the families of the deceased. However, if you are on a boat ride, you can view the ritual from a distance and take pictures of the general ghat area.

• Harishchandra Ghat: Harishchandra Ghat is another cremation ghat, and it holds great significance as it is one of the oldest ghats in Varanasi. It is named after the mythological King Harishchandra, who is said to have worked at this cremation ground and upheld his integrity and commitment to truth under extreme circumstances. Like Manikarnika Ghat, Harishchandra Ghat operates continuously and offers a glimpse into the Hindu rituals surrounding death and the afterlife.

• Scindia Ghat: Scindia Ghat is known for its partially submerged Shiva temple at the water’s edge, which collapsed in the river over 150 years ago. The ghat is relatively less crowded and offers a peaceful atmosphere for visitors. It is a great place to explore the historical architecture and enjoy a quiet moment by the river.

Each ghat in Varanasi offers a unique experience, blending spirituality, history, and culture. Exploring these ghats will give you a deeper understanding of the city’s essence and its profound connection to the Ganges River.

Boat trip along the river Ganges

A boat trip along the Ganges River is an unforgettable experience that you simply can’t miss when visiting Varanasi. We began our journey at Assi Ghat and cruised all the way to Manikarnika Ghat and back. Along the way, we passed by historical sites like Chet Singh Ghat and Darbhanga Ghat. Watching the locals as they washed themselves and their clothes by the river was a fascinating glimpse into daily life here.

To make the most of this adventure, you have a couple of options: a private motorboat or a traditional rowing boat. Private motorboats typically cost between 1000 to 1500 INR, while a rowing boat, which can accommodate up to six people, costs around 200 INR per person. Don’t forget to bargain for a fair price!

A boat ride along the Ganges is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the local culture and observe the rhythms of life along the river. For a truly memorable experience, consider taking your boat trip in the late afternoon, so you can witness the evening aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat from the water. Make sure to plan your itinerary in advance to fully enjoy this remarkable journey.

Walking along the River

Walking along the Ganges River in Varanasi is one of the most unique and enriching experiences you can have. The city’s life revolves around the river, and this is evident in every aspect of daily life. As you stroll along the riverbanks, you’ll get to observe the lifestyle of the locals and their everyday activities. If you’re looking to fully immerse yourself in the culture, you might even consider taking a dip in the Ganges. However, do keep in mind that the river is not the cleanest, so be cautious.

Be prepared for boatmen who will approach you offering boat trips. If you’re not interested or have already taken a boat ride, a polite decline will usually suffice, and they’ll leave you be.

During your walk, you’ll come across several riverfront cafes where you can relax and enjoy a drink. Remember, finding alcohol in this holy city can be a bit challenging. Dashashwamedh Ghat, in particular, is a vibrant spot where you can spend hours just people-watching. It’s one of the most popular ghats and is also the site of the evening aarti, a mesmerizing ceremony where people from all walks of life gather to offer prayers and light to the sacred river. The energy here is palpable, making it a must-visit during your time in Varanasi.

Benares Silk

Varanasi is renowned for its exquisite silk products, and shopping for silk is a must-do activity when visiting the city. The best place to immerse yourself in this vibrant shopping experience is the Chowk area, located in the heart of Varanasi. Here, you’ll find an array of small shops and boutiques offering a variety of silk items, including sarees, scarves, shawls, and more.

One of the highlights of shopping in Chowk is the opportunity to purchase traditional Benarasi silk sarees, which are a must-buy for any visitor. These sarees are known for their intricate designs and superior quality, making them a treasured keepsake or a thoughtful gift.

To make the most of your shopping experience, it’s a good idea to visit multiple shops and compare prices before making a purchase. Prices can vary widely depending on the quality of the silk and your bargaining skills. Take your time to explore the different options and enjoy the process of finding the perfect silk item to take home as a memento of your time in Varanasi.

Where to eat in Varanasi

Varanasi offers a rich culinary landscape, particularly for vegetarians. Here are some top dining spots that we loved:

Brown Bread Bakery: Located near Dashashwamedh Ghat, Brown Bread Bakery is an excellent spot to savor a mix of Indian and international dishes. They offer a variety of organic options, and their rooftop seating provides a wonderful view of the bustling ghats.

Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe: Situated by Assi Ghat, Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe is famous for its delicious pizzas. Dining here is a treat, especially with the stunning view of the Ganges. If you can’t find a table, head to Ashish Cafe nearby for equally delightful dishes.

Swastik Plaza: To delve deeper into the local culture, we ventured to Swastik Plaza in the city center. Here, you’ll find various eateries offering authentic local dishes. Roma’s Cafe Diner is a highlight, serving decent food in a welcoming atmosphere. Take your time to explore the area and discover hidden culinary gems.

Where to stay in Varanasi

Near Dashashwamedh Ghat:

Ganpati Guesthouse offers rooms for around €40 per night, with stunning views of the Ganges and excellent amenities. The hotel also has two restaurants with a broad range of delicious dishes.

Anand Kanan is a newer hotel, located a bit closer to the main ghat. Prices are similar and start at €40 per night for a doubleroom.

Near Assi Ghat:

Gully Ghar offers budget-friendly rooms starting at €25 per night, located in a quieter area.

Varanasi’s hospitality is renowned, especially in its hotels. Don’t hesitate to ask for local advice and recommendations. Your stay in this spiritual city will be unforgettable for sure!