Varanasi

Varanasi Tour

Varanasi, also known as Benares or Kashi, is a city located in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and is considered a holy city by Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains. Some of the famous attractions in Varanasi include:

1. Kashi Vishwanath Temple: One of the most important and sacred temples dedicated to Lord Shiva in India.

2. Dashashwamedh Ghat: This is one of the most famous and oldest ghats in Varanasi, known for its daily Ganga Aarti ceremony.

3. Manikarnika Ghat: This is one of the most important and sacred ghats in Varanasi, known for its association with death and reincarnation.

4. Sarnath: This is an important Buddhist pilgrimage site, known for being the place where Buddha gave his first sermon.

5. Ramnagar Fort: This is a beautiful fort located on the opposite bank of the Ganges, known for its rich history and beautiful architecture.

6. The Banaras Hindu University: This is one of the most prestigious universities in India, known for its beautiful architecture and lush green campus.

The best time to visit Varanasi depends on your personal preferences but the most popular time is during the months of October to March, when the weather is pleasant and the temperature ranges from 10 to 25°C. During these months the weather is perfect for sightseeing, the temperature is cool and comfortable and the water level in the Ganges is low.

How to reach Varanasi

There are several ways to reach Varanasi:

1. By Air: Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS) is the nearest airport to Varanasi and it is well connected to major cities in India such as New Delhi, Mumbai and more. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Varanasi.

2. By Train: Varanasi railway station is well connected to major cities in India. Many trains run regularly to Varanasi from major cities in India.

3. By Bus: Varanasi is well connected by road to other major cities in Uttar Pradesh and nearby states. Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) and private operators operate regular bus services to and from Varanasi.

4. By Car: Varanasi is well connected to other major cities in Uttar Pradesh and nearby states through National and State Highways. You can rent a car or drive your own vehicle to reach Varanasi.

The best way to reach Varanasi depends on your location, budget, and time availability. It's always a good idea to research and plan your journey in advance. If you are planning to drive, it's always good to check the road conditions before starting your journey, as the roads can be in bad condition during the monsoon season.

Best time to Varanasi

The best time to visit Varanasi depends on your personal preferences and the kind of experience you are looking for. Here are a few things to consider:

1. Summer season (April to June): This season can be very hot and humid with temperatures reaching up to 45°C, it might not be the most comfortable time to visit but it's good for those who want to experience the traditional festivals and ceremonies.

2. Monsoon season (July to September): During this season, Varanasi receives heavy rainfall, It can be a good time to visit if you want to enjoy the lush greenery and cooler temperatures.

3. Winter season (October to March): This is the best time to visit Varanasi if you are looking to experience the cooler weather, the temperature during this time ranges from 10 to 25°C. During this time of the year, the city is less crowded and the temperature is pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing and temple visits.

These are general guidelines and the actual weather conditions may vary from year to year. It's always a good idea to check the weather forecast and pack accordingly before your trip. Also, during the winter season, the water level in the Ganges is low, making it easier to take a boat ride.

Best Hotels in Varanasi

Varanasi offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the top 25 hotels in Varanasi that have good ratings and reviews from travelers:

1. Hotel Gateway Ganges Varanasi
2. Hotel Surya
3. Hotel Suryauday Haveli
4. Hotel Sarnath Palace
5. Hotel Rivatas by Ideal
6. Hotel Varuna
7. Hotel Surya Temple View
8. Hotel Surya Kashi
9. Hotel Surya Kanti
10. Hotel Surya Raj
11. Hotel Surya Inn
12. Hotel Surya Palace
13. Hotel Surya Ganges
14. Hotel Surya Sanctuary
15. Hotel Surya Kaya
16. Hotel Surya Kedar
17. Hotel Surya Ganga
18. Hotel Surya Retreat
19. Hotel Surya Temple
20. Hotel Surya Heritage
21. Hotel Surya Nivas
22. Hotel Surya Sarnath
23. Hotel Surya Kashi Royal
24. Hotel Surya Kashi Ashok
25. Hotel Surya Kashi Residency

The above list is not exhaustive and there are many more good hotels in Varanasi. The best way to find a hotel that suits your needs and budget is to check online review sites and compare prices and amenities. It's always a good idea to book well in advance, especially during peak tourist season to avoid disappointment.