At Godaulia, Varanasi's bustling heart, spiritual energy flows through ancient lanes lined with colourful shops. The golden spires of Kashi Vishwanath Temple rise above the crowds of devotees and curious travellers. Narrow pathways lead to nearby ghats where evening aartis illuminate the sacred Ganges. Street vendors sell everything from religious items to famous Banarasi silks and sweet lassi. Navigate the medieval maze by cycle rickshaw or on foot. The district connects visitors to Dasaswamedh ghat and other key attractions while offering a glimpse into Varanasi's timeless spiritual traditions.
Sigra reveals Varanasi's spiritual soul away from the main tourist areas. Ancient temples with ornate spires and saffron walls fill this authentic area. Devotees ring brass bells at countless shrines while incense smoke drifts through narrow lanes. Traditional silk shops and religious artefact vendors line the bustling Sigra Road. The area balances commercial energy with pockets of peaceful residential life. Morning prayers and evening aartis showcase unchanged Hindu traditions that travellers can experience first-hand. Temple courtyards provide tranquil retreats from the lively markets. Walking to the sacred Ganges ghats takes just 15 minutes through winding streets.
Varanasi Nagar Nigam reveals the soul of ancient India through its sacred landscapes. The golden spires of Kashi Vishwanath Temple rise above narrow lanes filled with saffron-robed sadhus. Stone ghats cascade down to the sacred Ganges where pilgrims perform dawn rituals amid floating marigolds. Walk the labyrinthine streets echoing with temple bells and Sanskrit chants. Traditional vegetarian eateries and silk merchants occupy centuries-old buildings showcasing intricate architecture. Experience the mesmerising evening Ganga Aarti ceremony with locals as oil lamps illuminate the river.
Lanka offers a peaceful retreat from Varanasi's bustling ghats, with tree-lined streets and authentic local life. The prestigious Banaras Hindu University campus creates a scholarly atmosphere with its historic buildings and green spaces. Visit the notable Bharat Kala Bhavan museum to explore impressive art collections. Small area temples dot the quiet residential streets where daily life moves at a gentler pace. The area provides comfortable walking experiences with minimal tourist crowds. Auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws make getting to Varanasi's famous riverside attractions like Assi Ghat convenient and straightforward.
Mahmoorganj bustles with energy as local vendors display colourful textiles, electronics, and handicrafts along narrow streets. The aroma of street food mingles with incense from nearby temples, creating an authentic Varanasi experience. Bargaining is expected in this budget-friendly shopping paradise. This commercial hub serves mainly locals, making it perfect for travellers seeking genuine Indian culture away from tourist traps. Auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws navigate the congested lanes where budget guesthouses offer simple accommodation. The sacred Ganges River remains just a short ride away.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Varanasi
Kashi Vishwanath Temple
9.4/10 (211 reviews)
One of Hinduism's twelve sacred Jyotirlingas, Kashi Vishwanath Temple stands crowned with a gold-plated spire in Varanasi. Arrive at dawn for the transcendent Mangala Aarti when chants and incense create the most
Dasaswamedh ghat
9.2/10 (203 reviews)
Witness the mesmerising Ganga Aarti ceremony at Varanasi's oldest and most sacred riverfront. Arrive early to secure prime viewing of priests performing synchronised rituals with fire and song.
Assi Ghat
9.2/10 (146 reviews)
Assi Ghat, Varanasi's southernmost sacred riverfront, hosts dawn rituals and yoga daily. Experience the mesmerising Subah-e-Banaras morning ceremony featuring Vedic chanting and classical music.
Banaras Hindu University
9.4/10 (123 reviews)
Explore Asia's largest residential university with Indo-Gothic architecture and Indian heritage. Discover the white marble Vishwanath Temple and rare artefacts at the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum.
Hanuman Ghat
9.0/10 (102 reviews)
This sacred riverside ghat honours Lord Hanuman with a temple founded by poet-saint Tulsidas. Join the mesmerising evening Aarti ceremony with its lamp-lighting rituals and spiritual chants.
Tulsi Ghat
8.8/10 (81 reviews)
Revered as where Tulsidas composed the epic 'Ramcharitmanas', Tulsi Ghat offers a serene riverside retreat. Experience classical music at the annual Dhrupad Mela or witness the colourful Nag Nathaiya festival.
Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple
9.4/10 (96 reviews)
This 16th-century temple, founded by poet-saint Tulsidas, honours Hanuman, the Hindu deity who relieves troubles. Visit during the Sankat Mochan Sangeet Samaroh festival for classical music in a spiritual setting.
Sant Ravidas Ghat
9.2/10 (59 reviews)
A serene pilgrimage site honouring 14th-century saint-poet Ravidas, this peaceful ghat welcomes devotees and visitors alike. Board a Ganga cruise here for spectacular views of Varanasi's historic riverfront.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
You'll find cheap prices on Expedia for your Varanasi getaway. However, factors like your choice of hotel, the season and length of stay will influence how much your holiday to Varanasi costs.
What are the cheapest months to go to Varanasi?
If you're hoping to snag a cheap Varanasi holiday package, consider visiting in May, August and September. You'll generally find better prices on flights and accommodation during these quieter months — perfect for travellers wishing to save money.
How many days is enough for Varanasi?
With about 3 days, you'll have enough time to visit popular neighbourhoods like Sigra and Mahmoorganj during your Varanasi holiday. Remember to also add Asi Ghat and Tulsi Ghat to your must-do list. Up for some more adventures? Consider exploring outside of Varanasi on day trips and tours.
Is it worth booking a holiday package to Varanasi?
It's easy to see why a Varanasi holiday is on the must-do list of many travellers. Top attractions like Kashi Vishwanath Temple are just the start of what you can explore here.
How to find the best Varanasi package deals?
Use Expedia's filters to find some unbeatable Varanasi package deals. When you start your search, just set your maximum budget and then sort the results by "Price: low to high." If you're looking to save, plan your escape for midweek, or search for Varanasi package deals in the off-peak season. Play around with your travel dates and you may score even bigger discounts. As a rule of thumb, it's usually best to book your holiday package as soon as possible.
Is it cheaper to book a Varanasi holiday as a package?
You can enjoy significant savings on your Varanasi break by booking a tailored holiday package. Click on the "Package" heading, then select your travel dates and destination to browse the best flight and hotel prices. Bundle everything into a neat package and you can save hundreds of dollars. Consider adding a rental car and you may score a better deal.
When to book a holiday package to Varanasi?
Enjoy incredible discounts by reserving your flights in advance with Expedia. If being spontaneous is more your thing, snap up one of our last-minute deals for a spur-of-the-moment Varanasi trip.
How to plan a trip to Varanasi?
Pick the best time to travel: Your schedule, favourite season and the type of weather you enjoy can all influence your decision on when to go to Varanasi.
Figure out your budget: Make sure you have enough money to cover everything from food and transportation to airfares and activities. Your accommodation will probably be the largest expense during your trip to Varanasi.
Determine how many days away: Start by listing all the attractions you'd like to experience in Varanasi. Then, estimate how long you'll need for each, along with any travel time.
Combine your hotel and flights: Awesome destination, check. Length of stay, check. All that's left now is to choose a Varanasi holiday package that brings all your bookings together.
The nearest shopping destination is JVH Mall, where you can enjoy a mix of high street fashion and local boutiques, all within a vibrant atmosphere. If you're up for a drive, consider visiting larger malls further afield for an even wider selection of goods.
Recreation
In Varanasi, the Ayurvedic Healing Centre provides rejuvenating treatments rooted in ancient traditions, offering a serene atmosphere for relaxation. The Surya Wellness Centre features yoga sessions and meditation classes overlooking the Ganges, creating a tranquil space to reconnect with your inner self amidst the vibrant city.
Adventure
Experience exhilarating boat rides on the Ganges, embark on a cycling tour through the ancient ghats, and explore the vibrant alleys of Varanasi on foot. For a unique adventure, participate in a yoga session overlooking the river at sunrise, immersing yourself in the city's spiritual essence.
Nightlife
Varanasi's nightlife offers a unique blend of spiritual and cultural experiences. Stroll along the ghats to witness mesmerizing Ganga Aarti, then explore vibrant cafes in Assi Ghat and music venues in the Old City, where local performances bring the night alive with traditional melodies and rhythms.
Find the best attractions in Varanasi
Varanasi is an ideal destination for those seeking a cultural vacation, offering a rich tapestry of temples, historic buildings, and significant sites. The city presents a unique blend of traditional experiences, stunning scenery, and spiritual ambience, making it perfect for travellers keen on immersing themselves in its vibrant heritage. Whether exploring sacred ghats or ancient temples, Varanasi promises an enriching journey steeped in history and culture.
Dasaswamedh ghat: Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Dasaswamedh Ghat, a stunning harbour in Varanasi renowned for its scenic views and lively beach vibes. Witness the enchanting Ganga Aarti ceremony, where hundreds gather to celebrate the river's spiritual significance.
Hanuman Ghat: Immerse yourself in the rich culture at Hanuman Ghat, a historic building that reflects the architectural beauty and religious fervour of the area. This ghat is not only a spiritual site but also a place where local traditions come alive.
Marnikanika Ghat: Visit Marnikanika Ghat, a historic site steeped in culture, where you can observe the rituals associated with life and death. This ghat serves as a poignant reminder of the sacredness of the Ganges and the customs surrounding it.
Best time to go to Varanasi
The best time to visit Varanasi can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Varanasi falls in May, when visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature in Varanasi falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain.
Tips to save on your trip to Varanasi
Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
Consider traveling to Varanasi during the low season (May to June and August) for more affordable options.
Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.