Varanasi, an ancient city in India, is undoubtedly one of the most captivating places you will ever visit. Throughout the year, this lively city welcomes pilgrims and tourists seeking various experiences. Some come to celebrate life, while others create important milestones. Regardless of the reason, the streets are always bustling with tourists. Many take baths in the sacred River Ganga along the Ghats. It is a vibrant city that anyone who desires to experience the holy facet of the country should explore with Car rental in Delhi.
Planning a trip to Varanasi soon? Well, get this Varanasi guided trip with the best tour and travel agency in Delhi which is here to assist you at every step! We have covered all the details in this article, including where to stay, how to travel within the city, what to eat, a shopping guide, and much more.
When to Visit Varanasi?
Varanasi remains accessible all year round, but each month offers special advantages for various activities. If your goal is to explore the sights, the winter season is ideal. The weather is cool and pleasant during this time, so your sightseeing tour will be a delightful experience.
How to Reach Varanasi from Delhi?
Varanasi is approximately 800 km away from Delhi. The city is well-connected to the rest of India through roads, railways, and flights. Whether you are travelling from Delhi or any other city in India, you will find a variety of options.
The quickest train journey from New Delhi to Varanasi takes around 11 hours and 30 minutes, with Varanasi Junction as the destination. If you are looking for the most economical way, the train to Varanasi Junction is the cheapest option. For the fastest travel, a flight to Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes to reach Varanasi. The new highways are the best way to experience a road trip to Varanasi from Delhi. If you are coming to India for the very first time and exploring the best heritage attractions, you can also plan for the Golden Triangle tour package with Varanasi to experience the sojourn tour.
Getting Around in Varanasi
Given the bustling population and numerous attractions in the city, getting familiar with the primary modes of transportation within the city will surely come in handy. Here is a brief overview of how you can get around:
Walking:
- Ideal for exploring the streets and Ghats of Varanasi.
- Takes about 1 hour to travel from the northernmost Ghat to Assi Ghat.
- Perfect for photography enthusiasts, with charming doors and alleys to discover.
- Allows you to stop at food vendors and enjoy local street food while exploring.
Rickshaws and Shared E-rickshaws:
- Rickshaws are useful for reaching temples and other places if your hotel is a bit away from these attractions.
- A rickshaw ride typically costs around 50 INR for a 3km radius, but bargaining is common.
- Shared E-rickshaws are available, charging 10-20 INR for the journey to the Ghats.
Auto-rickshaws:
- Best for travelling from the railway station or airport to your hotel/hostel.
- Abundant auto-rickshaws are available, but haggling for the right price is necessary.
- An auto from Varanasi Junction to Dasaswamedha Ghat might cost around 150-200 INR.
Tempo Traveller Hire Delhi:
- Suitable for those wanting a more comfortable travel experience.
- A good option for avoiding haggling with auto-rickshaws or private taxi owners.
Boats:
- The best way to travel between the Ghats and explore the river.
- Offers a scenic ride and a chance to visit ashrams and temples on the other side.
- A one-hour boat ride typically costs around 50-100 INR per person.
Best Places to Visit/Stay in Varanasi
Varanasi is rich in attractions, especially its ghats. Choosing the right place to stay can greatly enhance your exploration experience. Here are some of the best places to stay and visit in the city:
- Dasaswamedha Ghat
One of the spiritual epicentres, Dasaswamedha Ghat, is renowned for hosting the main Ganga Aarti. According to legend, Lord Brahma established this ghat to welcome Lord Shiva and thus it became a bustling hub of activities with stunning views of the city. The availability of numerous quality hotels enhances the overall experience.
- Darbhanga Ghat
Darbhanga Ghat, recognized for its impressive sandstone structure, offers a visual feast for visitors. Positioned next to Dasaswamedha Ghat, it not only provides a glimpse of the evening Ganga Aarti but also features heritage hotels.
- Shivala Ghat
Nestled along the Ganga River, Shivala Ghat stands out for its vibrant atmosphere and a spectrum of accommodation options, ranging from budget to luxury. Its central location ensures convenient access to both Assi Ghat and Dasaswamedha Ghat.
- Hanuman Ghat
Hanuman Ghat, also known as Rameshwaram Ghat, is a picturesque destination believed to have been constructed by Lord Rama. With its Hanuman temple and a shrine dedicated to Tulsi Das, this ghat offers a serene escape. The presence of quality hotels and restaurants complements the immersive experience.
- Assi Ghat
Situated at the southernmost end of Varanasi Ghats, Assi Ghat is the largest and a relatively quieter option. With its range of accommodations and restaurants, this ghat provides a serene atmosphere. There are boat rides to cross the Ganges or reach Dasaswamedha Ghat on the north side.
The Mythological Aspect of Varanasi
Varanasi, a sacred city, has a deeply rooted and ancient history. According to the Rig Veda texts, Varanasi was initially known as Kashi and this was 1956 when the city got its official name. ‘Kashi’ translates to ‘to shine’ in English, making Varanasi known as the City of Lights. In Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva, the god of creation and destruction, is responsible for establishing Varanasi, his second home.
The city hosts the Kashi Vishwanath Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is believed that passing away in this holy city brings liberation from the cycle of reincarnation. Also, a dip in the sacred Ganga River is said to absolve one of all sins. Hence, numerous elderly individuals come here to spend their final days, and priests perform the last rites for those who pass away in the city.
Beyond its significance in Hinduism, Varanasi holds sacred importance in Buddhism. Gautam Buddha delivered his first message about Buddhism around 528 BC, and the town of Sarnath, situated in Varanasi, boasts temples, stupas, and sites associated with Buddhism.
Conclusion
Varanasi is an amazing destination, without a doubt. With a bit of thoughtful planning, you can plan a fantastic trip from Delhi to this enchanting city. Allocate enough days to fully explore all that Varanasi has to offer, and seek out local experiences to enhance your trip. We hope that this Varanasi travel guide will help you craft an unforgettable journey from the bustling national capital to the wonderful city by the Ganges.
