Varanasi, also known as Banaras, is one of the oldest cities in the world, rich in culture, spirituality, and history. It’s a place where ancient traditions come alive, and every corner is filled with spiritual significance. Imagine walking along the ghats, witnessing the Ganga Aarti, and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere – Varanasi is truly an experience of a lifetime.
Varanasi mein aake aapko lagta hai, “Yeh city toh zindagi ka ek spiritual journey hai!”
Top Places to Visit in Varanasi
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple
- Description: Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most revered temples in India. The temple’s architecture and the spiritual ambiance create a divine experience. Yahan aake aapko lagta hai, “Spirituality ka asli mazaa yahi hai!”
- Entry Fee: Free.
- Opening Hours: 2:30 AM – 11:30 PM
- Hinglish Vibe: Kashi Vishwanath Temple mein aake, aapko spiritual vibes ka asli feel milega!
- Dashashwamedh Ghat
- Description: Dashashwamedh Ghat is the main ghat of Varanasi and is famous for the Ganga Aarti held every evening. Witnessing the Aarti is a mesmerizing experience that you’ll never forget. Evening aarti dekh ke aap sochoge, “Yeh view aur energy, ekdam divine hai!”
- Entry Fee: Free.
- Opening Hours: 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- Hinglish Vibe: Dashashwamedh Ghat ki Aarti dekhna, ek spiritual experience hai, jaise ek divine show!
- Sarnath
- Description: Sarnath is where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon. It’s a peaceful place with historical ruins and Buddhist monuments. Exploring Sarnath is a journey through history and spirituality. Sarnath aake aapko lagta hai, “Yeh jagah bhi ek historical aur spiritual treasure hai!”
- Entry Fee: ₹30 for Indians, ₹150 for foreigners.
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Hinglish Vibe: Sarnath mein jaake, Buddha ki teachings aur historical ruins ko dekhna ek unique experience hai!
- Manikarnika Ghat
- Description: Manikarnika Ghat is one of the oldest and most significant cremation ghats in Varanasi. It’s a place to witness the cycle of life and death, and the spiritual atmosphere here is profound. Ghat pe aake, aapko zindagi aur spirituality ka deep connection milega.
- Entry Fee: Free.
- Opening Hours: 24 hours.
- Hinglish Vibe: Manikarnika Ghat pe visit karke, aapko life aur death ka deep perspective milega!
- Ramnagar Fort
- Description: Ramnagar Fort is located on the banks of the Ganges and offers a glimpse into the royal history of Varanasi. The fort’s museum and architecture are fascinating. Fort dekh ke, aapko lagta hai, “Yeh royal history bhi ekdam engaging hai!”
- Entry Fee: ₹100 for Indians, ₹200 for foreigners.
- Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Hinglish Vibe: Ramnagar Fort dekh ke, aap sochoge, “Yeh fort bhi ek royal touch ke saath historical hai!”
Best Places to Stay in Varanasi
- BrijRama Palace
- Description: BrijRama Palace is a luxurious heritage hotel with stunning views of the Ganges. The palace offers a royal stay with modern comforts and traditional charm. Agar luxury chahiye, toh yeh jagah best hai!
- Price: ₹20,000–₹35,000 per night (luxury).
- Hinglish Vibe: BrijRama Palace mein stay karke, aapko lagega, “Ganges ke views ke saath ek royal stay!”
- Hotel Alka
- Description: Hotel Alka offers comfortable accommodation with a great view of the Ganges. It’s a mid-range option with good amenities and a prime location. Budget mein comfort chahiye, toh yeh jagah perfect hai!
- Price: ₹8,000–₹15,000 per night (mid-range).
- Hinglish Vibe: Hotel Alka mein stay kar ke, aap bolenge, “Ganges ka view aur comfort dono hi best hai!”
- OYO 4065 Hotel Shree Krishna
- Description: This budget hotel offers affordable accommodation with basic amenities. It’s a good option if you’re looking to stay near the ghats without spending too much. Budget friendly aur comfortable stay ke liye perfect!
- Price: ₹2,500–₹5,000 per night (budget).
- Hinglish Vibe: OYO Hotel Shree Krishna mein stay karke, aapko lagega, “Budget mein bhi ek comfortable stay!”
Best Places to Eat in Varanasi
- Kashi Chaat Bhandar
- Description: Kashi Chaat Bhandar is famous for its delicious chaat and street food. It’s a must-visit for foodies looking to indulge in local flavors. Street food ka asli mazaa yahan milta hai!
- Average Meal Cost: ₹200–₹400 per person.
- Hinglish Vibe: Kashi Chaat Bhandar ka chaat khake, aap bolenge, “Street food ka mazaa yahan full on hai!”
- Varanasi Café
- Description: Varanasi Café offers a range of dishes from Indian to Continental. It’s a good place for a relaxed meal with a variety of options. Café ka khana aur ambiance dono hi achha hai.
- Average Meal Cost: ₹300–₹600 per person.
- Hinglish Vibe: Varanasi Café pe dinner karke, aapko lagega, “Variety of dishes aur relaxed ambiance!”
- Mangi Ferra Café
- Description: Mangi Ferra Café is known for its cozy atmosphere and good coffee. It’s a nice spot to unwind and enjoy some snacks. Coffee aur snacks ka relaxed experience yahan milta hai.
- Average Meal Cost: ₹200–₹400 per person.
- Hinglish Vibe: Mangi Ferra Café pe coffee pe charcha aur snacks ka mazaa lo – ekdum chill vibes!
Best Route to Take to Varanasi
- By Air:
Varanasi has its own airport with connections to major cities like Delhi and Mumbai.
Flight Cost: ₹3,000–₹6,000 one way. - By Train:
Varanasi Railway Station is well-connected to cities like Delhi, Kolkata, and Mumbai.
Train Cost: ₹500–₹2,000. - By Road:
- Distance from Delhi: 800 km
- Travel Time: 12–14 hours
- Cost: ₹3,000–₹5,000 by bus, or ₹6,000–₹8,000 by taxi.
Road Trip Thought: Varanasi ke raste pe, ek acchi playlist aur chai breaks zaroori hain! Spiritual journey ke liye road trip ka mazaa hi kuch aur hai!
Sample Budget for a 3-Day Trip to Varanasi
- Travel Costs (Round trip from Delhi):
- By Air: ₹6,000–₹12,000
- By Train: ₹1,000–₹4,000
- By Road: ₹4,000–₹8,000 (fuel for self-drive).
- Accommodation (3 nights):
- Luxury: ₹60,000–₹1,05,000 for 3 nights (e.g., BrijRama Palace)
- Mid-range: ₹24,000–₹45,000 for 3 nights (e.g., Hotel Alka)
- Budget: ₹7,500–₹15,000 for 3 nights (e.g., OYO 4065 Hotel Shree Krishna).
- Meals:
- ₹200–₹1,500 per meal, per person.
- Sightseeing & Activities:
- Entry fees: ₹30–₹200 for various sites.