Varanasi Travel Guide

The ghats

Varanasi's life happens on more than 80 ghats along the Ganga. Dashashwamedh is the busiest; Manikarnika is the main cremation ghat, to be visited quietly and respectfully; Assi is the southern end, where the morning programme Subah-e-Banaras is held.

Ganga Aarti

The evening aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat draws large crowds every night. Arrive early for a place on the steps, or watch from a boat.

A sunrise boat ride

The single best way to see the city. At dawn, the ghats fill with bathers, priests and yoga, and the light is soft.

Kashi Vishwanath

The temple of Lord Shiva is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. The new corridor has made access easier. Phones and bags are not allowed inside; lockers are available nearby.

Sarnath

About 10 km away, Sarnath is where the Buddha gave his first sermon. See the Dhamek Stupa, the ruins and the museum (closed on Fridays).

When to go

October to March. Dev Deepawali, usually in November, lights up the ghats with lamps but is extremely crowded.

Travel conditions, permits and timings change. Check current rules before you travel — we confirm them in every quotation.