Frequently Asked Questions Varanasi, India

• Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities, is a major Hindu pilgrimage site, famous for its spiritual and cultural significance.
• Varanasi is a sacred Hindu city by the Ganges.
• It is famous for its temples, ghats, and the Ganga Aarti.
• Renowned for silk, music, and street food.

• Best time to visit Varanasi is October to March (cool and pleasant).
• Avoid April to June due to extreme heat.

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The must-visit ghats in Varanasi include:

Dashashwamedh Ghat: Famous for the Ganga Aarti ceremony, it is the most iconic ghat.

Assi Ghat: Popular for its peaceful atmosphere and vibrant cultural activities.

Manikarnika Ghat: Known as the primary cremation ghat, it holds deep spiritual significance.

Harishchandra Ghat: Another cremation ghat, offering a less crowded experience with a similar atmosphere.

Namo Ghat – Namo Ghat in Varanasi is a serene riverside spot known for its peaceful atmosphere and spiritual significance, offering a beautiful view of the Ganges.

Yes, tourists are welcome to witness and participate in the Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat in Varanasi. While participation in the rituals is typically led by priests, visitors can observe, join in the prayer, and offer flowers or light diyas as part of the spiritual experience. The ceremony, held daily, is an unforgettable experience for all attendees.

Some must-try local foods in Varanasi include:

Kachori Sabzi: A fried pastry served with spicy potato curry, often enjoyed for breakfast.

Banarasi Paan: A traditional betel leaf chew, a famous post-meal treat.

Lassi: A refreshing yogurt-based drink, often served in clay cups.

Chaat: Popular street food, including varieties like Aloo Tikki and Pani Puri.

Malaiyyo (Thandai): A sweet, creamy dessert served in winter, made with milk, saffron, and cardamom.

Tourists can buy several unique souvenirs in Varanasi, including:

Banarasi Silk Sarees: Famous for their intricate weaving and rich patterns.

Brass and Copperware: Handcrafted items like religious idols and decor.

Wooden Carvings: Intricately carved wooden artifacts depicting gods and spiritual themes.

Ganga Water: Bottled sacred water from the Ganges for spiritual significance.

Pashmina Shawls: Soft, luxurious shawls made from fine wool.
 These souvenirs reflect Varanasi’s rich culture and spiritual heritage.

Most temples in Varanasi do not charge entry fees. However, some temples may ask for a small donation or charge fees for special rituals or ceremonies. Popular temples like the Kashi Vishwanath Temple are free to visit, though visitors may need to go through security checks. It's always a good idea to check specific temple guidelines before visiting.

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Varanasi celebrates several vibrant cultural festivals, including:

Dev Deepawali: A grand festival marking the spiritual victory of light over darkness, with thousands of diyas lighting up the ghats.

Holi: The festival of colors, celebrated with much enthusiasm and fervor.

Diwali: The festival of lights, celebrated with religious rituals, fireworks, and decorations.

Makar Sankranti: A harvest festival celebrated with kite flying and traditional sweets.

Ganga Dussehra: A festival dedicated to the Ganges, with devotees offering prayers and bathing in the river.

• Yes, You can click Photography Varanasi ghats but requires respect for customs.
• Seek permission before photographing people or rituals.
• Some areas, like temples, may have restrictions.

• Banaras, Kashi, and Varanasi are named for the same city.
• Kashi reflects its ancient spiritual roots, Banaras was used historically, and Varanasi is the modern official name.
• All represent this sacred city by the Ganges.

• Kashi, or Varanasi, is a sacred Hindu city and Lord Shiva's abode.
• Believed to grant salvation to those who die or are cremated here.
• Famous for ancient temples, ghats, and spiritual rituals.

The top places to visit in Varanasi include:

Kashi Vishwanath Temple: A famous temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the holiest in India.

Dashashwamedh Ghat: Known for the evening Ganga Aarti, offering a spiritual experience by the river.

Assi Ghat: A peaceful ghat with temples and cultural events, popular for boat rides.

Manikarnika Ghat: The main cremation ghat, offering a deep insight into Hindu rituals.

Banaras Hindu University (BHU): A renowned educational institution with a beautiful campus and the Bharat Kala Bhavan museum.

Sarnath: A short distance from Varanasi, it is the site where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon.

 Namo Ghat- Namo Ghat in Varanasi is a tranquil ghat offering peaceful views of the Ganges.

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Dev Deepawali: A spectacular celebration of lights on the ghats, marking the spiritual victory of light over darkness.

Ganga Aarti: A daily evening ritual on Dashashwamedh Ghat, attracting large crowds.

Holi: The festival of colors, celebrated with music, dance, and street festivities.

Diwali: The festival of lights, with grand celebrations along the ghats.

Makar Sankranti: A harvest festival, famous for kite flying and community gatherings.
 These festivals reflect the city’s rich cultural and spiritual traditions.

• Visiting Kashi Vishwanath Temple involves walking through narrow lanes.
• Security checks and crowds are common, but the path is manageable.
• Wear comfortable footwear for the short walk.

• Varanasi has affordable Dharamshala with basic amenities near ghats and temples.
• Popular options are near Assi Ghat and Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
• Check reviews or ask locals for recommendations.

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• Sarnath Museum is open 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, closed on Fridays.
• Features Buddhist artifacts, sculptures, and relics.
• A must-visit attraction in Sarnath.

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• Sarnath is where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after enlightenment.
• Key landmarks include Dhamek Stupa, Sarnath Museum, and Ashoka Pillar.
• A major Buddhist pilgrimage site, rich in history and culture.

• Sarnath is where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon, a key Buddhist pilgrimage site.
• The Dhamek Stupa marks the spot of Buddha's teachings, and the Ashoka Pillar symbolizes India's heritage.
• The site contains ancient monasteries, temples, and the Sarnath Museum, with artifacts from as early as the 3rd century BCE.
• A rich destination for exploring Buddhist history and culture.

• A visit to Sarnath typically takes 2 to 3 hours.
• Key attractions include the Dhamek Stupa, Sarnath Museum, Ashoka Pillar, and surrounding ruins.
• For a more leisurely visit, consider allocating half a day.

• Sarnath is visited for its spiritual and historical significance as the site of Buddha's first sermon.
• Key attractions include the Dhamek Stupa, Ashoka Pillar, and Sarnath Museum with Buddhist artifacts.
• The peaceful atmosphere offers a reflective experience for those interested in Buddhist history and culture.

• Varanasi is in Uttar Pradesh, along the Ganges River, surrounded by agricultural land and villages.
• Nearby attractions include Sarnath and Chunar Fort.
• Well-connected to cities like Allahabad (Prayagraj) and Jaunpur, making it a cultural and spiritual hub.

• Chunar, near Varanasi, is famous for Chunar Fort, which has a rich history with the Mauryas and Mughals.
• Known for its strategic location along the Ganges River and scenic views.
• Renowned for Chunar stone, a high-quality sandstone used in monuments like the Red Fort.

• Mirzapur, in Uttar Pradesh, is famous for its hand-woven carpets and brassware, exported globally.
• Known for the Vindhyachal Temple and the Vindhya Range, significant religious and natural landmarks.
• The city holds cultural and historical importance, especially in relation to the Ganga River and ancient temples.

• The Vindhyachal Temple near Mirzapur is one of India's Shakti Peethas, dedicated to Goddess Vindhyavasini (a form of Durga).
• A major pilgrimage site for strength and spiritual well-being, especially during festivals like Navratri.
• Located in the Vindhya Hills, offering a serene and spiritual atmosphere.
• A key destination for both pilgrims and tourists due to its historical and religious significance.

• Varanasi offers convenient cab services including taxis available via mobile apps.
• Local taxis and auto-rickshaws are easily accessible for short trips.
• Private car rentals with drivers are available for sightseeing and longer journeys.
• These services provide comfortable transportation for both tourists and locals.

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• Varanasi's airport is now called Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS).
• It was renamed in honor of former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri, born in Varanasi.
• The airport offers both domestic and international flights, connecting Varanasi to major cities worldwide.

• Temples timing Varanasi, like Kashi Vishwanath, are open from 4:00 AM to 11:00 PM with a break in the afternoon.
• Visit early or during evening aarti for a peaceful experience.
• Timings may vary, so check locally.

Varanasi is home to several famous temples, including:

Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is one of the holiest temples in India.

Kaal Bhairav Temple: Dedicated to Kaal Bhairav, a fierce form of Lord Shiva, it holds great significance for locals.

Durga Temple: Known for its unique red color, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga.

Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple: Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, it is famous for its peaceful atmosphere and rituals.

Bharat Mata Temple: A unique temple dedicated to Mother India, featuring a marble map of India.

• Varanasi offers rowboats and motorboats for tourists along the Ganges River.
• Popular rides include sunrise and sunset trips, showcasing the spiritual atmosphere of the ghats.
• Private and shared boat rides are available for sightseeing.
• Early morning and evening rides are especially popular for their tranquility and scenic beauty.
• Specialized boat ride packages are also available

Explore Varanasi in one day with our suggested itinerary.

• Start your day with an early morning boat ride on the Ganges to witness the sunrise and ghats' rituals.
• Visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple and explore narrow streets for local cuisine and shopping.
• Head to Sarnath, where Buddha gave his first sermon.
• End the day with the captivating Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat.
• This itinerary covers the key highlights of Varanasi in one day.

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• The best Varanasi tour package includes spiritual, cultural, and historical experiences.
• Highlights: morning boat ride on the Ganges, visits to Kashi Vishwanath, Sankat Mochan, and Bharat Mata Temples, and Sarnath.
• Includes evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat.
• Many packages offer guided tours, accommodations, and local cuisine for an enriching experience.
• Choose a package based on your preferences, such as spirituality, heritage, or leisure.

• To book a Sugham ticket for Kashi Vishwanath Temple darshan, visit the official website of Holy Voyages for online booking or book in person at the temple's counter.
• For online booking, select your date and time, fill in the details, and complete payment to holy voyages.
• Sugham tickets offer priority access for a faster, more comfortable darshan experience, ideal for avoiding long queues.
• Opening Timings of Kashi Vishwanath Temple:

The Kashi Vishwanath Temple throughout the day in two main sessions:

• Morning: 3:00 AM to 12:00 PM
• Afternoon: 12:30 PM to 3:00 PM
• Evening: 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM

The temple remains closed between 12:00 PM to 12:30 PM for a break. However, these timings are subject to change on festivals or special events. It is always best to confirm with temple authorities before planning your visit.

Call Rajjan/Santosh to get more details.

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•  You can book Mangla Aarti tickets for Kashi Vishwanath Temple online or in person.
• Other option - To book online, visit the official website of Holy Voyages and navigate to the 'Online Services' or 'Aarti Booking' section.
•  For offline bookings, you can visit the temple's ticket counter, typically located near the entrance, and purchase tickets based on availability.

• To book Asthi Visarjan or Pind Daan in Varanasi, Holy Voyages provide a complete package for the same..
• Popular locations for these rituals include Dasaswamedh Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat and Harishchandra Ghat.
• Services can be booked at temple offices, through local priests, or tour operators who offer complete packages.
• It's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak seasons, due to high demand.

Contact a representative of Holy Voyages –

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• Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS) is 26 km from Varanasi.
• It connects to major Indian and international cities.
• Taxis and shuttles are available, with a 45-minute to 1-hour journey to the city center.

• Varanasi Junction (BSB) is the main station, well-connected to major cities.
• Nearby stations: Manduadih (4 km), Kashi, and Banaras (10 km).
• All stations offer easy access to key landmarks.

• Varanasi Bus Stand (Cantt Bus Depot) is the main hub, near Varanasi Junction, with connections to nearby cities.
• Mughal Sarai Bus Stand (15 km away) serves buses to eastern regions.
• Local stops like Rathyatra and Lanka provide access to key city areas.
• All stations are well-connected with frequent services for long-distance and local travel.

These nearby destinations are ideal for day trips or short excursions, each offering unique insights into India's spiritual and cultural heritage.

• You can book a government-certified guide through the official Tourism website or their local office in Varanasi.
• Private travel agencies and online platforms like Viator, Get Your Guide, and local tour operators also offer professional guides.
• These guides are knowledgeable about Varanasi’s history, culture, and spiritual significance.