Dress Code
Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples. Cover shoulders and knees. Remove shoes before entering temples. Carry a small bag for belongings.
India's Spiritual Capital
Varanasi
The world's oldest continuously inhabited city, where life and death flow together on the sacred banks of the Ganges. Experience India's spiritual essence through ancient rituals, mesmerizing aartis, and timeless traditions.
2.5 hrs
Direct Flight
5,000+
Years of History
INR
Currency
Oct-Mar
Best Time to Visit
Why Varanasi?
Varanasi (Kashi/Benaras) is not just a city - it's an experience that transforms you. Mark Twain wrote, "Benares is older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend." This is where Hindus believe salvation is attained, where the Ganges purifies all sins, and where ancient traditions continue unbroken for millennia.
For travelers from Bangalore, Varanasi offers a profound cultural experience. The predawn boat ride as the sun rises over the ghats, the evening Ganga Aarti ceremony, the narrow lanes filled with silk shops and sweet shops, and the nearby Buddhist pilgrimage site of Sarnath create an unforgettable journey.
Must-Visit Places in Varanasi
The Ghats
Varanasi has 84 ghats along the Ganges. Dashashwamedh Ghat hosts the famous evening Ganga Aarti. Manikarnika Ghat is the main cremation ghat - a powerful reminder of mortality. Assi Ghat offers a quieter experience and morning yoga sessions.
Kashi Vishwanath Temple
One of the 12 Jyotirlingas and the most sacred Shiva temple in India. Recently renovated as the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, it now offers a magnificent experience connecting the temple to the ghats.
Sarnath
Just 10km from Varanasi, this is where Buddha gave his first sermon. Visit the Dhamek Stupa, Ashoka Pillar, Sarnath Museum, and various temples and monasteries. A must for understanding India's Buddhist heritage.
The Lanes of Varanasi
Lose yourself in the narrow galis (lanes). Shop for Banarasi silk sarees, taste the famous Kachori-Sabzi breakfast, visit ancient temples hidden in corners, and observe daily life that has continued unchanged for centuries.
Must-Experience in Varanasi
Evening Ganga Aarti
Sunrise Boat Ride
Kashi Vishwanath Darshan
Sarnath Buddhist Site
Banarasi Silk Shopping
Street Food Trail
3-Day Varanasi Spiritual Journey
Ghats, temples, and timeless traditions - an immersive Varanasi experience.
1
Arrive & Evening Aarti
Fly from Bangalore. Check into hotel near the ghats. Evening: Witness the spectacular Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat - an unforgettable spiritual experience.
2
Sunrise & Temples
Early morning boat ride on the Ganges at sunrise. Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple (newly renovated corridor), Sankat Mochan Temple, and walk through the ancient lanes. Afternoon: Day trip to Sarnath.
3
Explore & Departure
Morning at leisure. Optional: heritage walk through old city, Banarasi silk shopping, street food tour (kachori, lassi, chaat). Afternoon flight to Bangalore.
Practical Tips for Varanasi
Getting Around
The old city is best explored on foot - narrow lanes don't allow cars. Auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws available for longer distances. Book boats directly at the ghats.
Respect Traditions
Ask permission before photographing people, especially at cremation ghats. Manikarnika Ghat photography is generally not allowed. Be respectful of rituals.
Food & Safety
Varanasi is famous for street food - try kachori, chaat, and the legendary Blue Lassi. Stick to reputable vendors. Drink bottled water.
Ready for Varanasi?
Let us plan your spiritual journey to India's holiest city - from sunrise boat rides to evening aartis.