Varanasi Travel Guide (2026 Edition)
Best Places, Itinerary, Darshan, Ganga Aarti & Tour Packages
Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Banaras, is one of the oldest living cities in the world. Situated on the banks of the holy River Ganga, the city is the spiritual heart of India. From sacred temples and mystical ghats to soulful Ganga Aarti and vibrant street culture—Varanasi offers an experience that stays with you forever.
This Complete Varanasi Travel Guide (2026 Edition) will help you plan a smooth, meaningful, and well-organized trip.
π Why Visit Varanasi?
One of the 7 sacred cities of Hinduism
Home to Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirlinga
World-famous Ganga Aarti & boat rides
Gateway to Sarnath, where Lord Buddha preached
Perfect for spiritual, cultural & heritage tourism
π️ Best Time to Visit Varanasi
| Season | Months | Travel Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Winter (Best) | Oct – Mar | Pleasant weather, festivals |
| Summer | Apr – Jun | Hot but manageable mornings |
| Monsoon | Jul – Sep | Lush ghats, fewer crowds |
π October to March is ideal for temple visits, boat rides, and walking tours.
π Top Places to Visit in Varanasi
π± Kashi Vishwanath Temple
One of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. The Kashi Vishwanath Corridor has made darshan smoother and more divine.
π Dashashwamedh Ghat
Famous for the grand evening Ganga Aarti, a must-see spiritual spectacle.
π£ Ganga Boat Ride
Early morning boat ride offers breathtaking views of ghats, rituals, and sunrise.
π️ Assi Ghat
Popular for Subah-e-Banaras, yoga sessions, and cultural vibes.
π₯ Manikarnika Ghat
The most sacred cremation ghat, symbolizing the cycle of life and moksha.
☸️ Sarnath
Located 10 km away, Sarnath is where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon.
π Ganga Aarti in Varanasi (2026 Timings)
Evening Aarti: Around 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM (varies by season)
Best Viewing Options:
From ghat steps
Boat Aarti (Recommended)
π Boat Aarti gives the best panoramic & peaceful experience
π Book Ganga Aarti Boat with Shivakashi Travels:
+91 9278322002
π€ Boat Ride in Varanasi – Price & Options
| Type | Best Time | Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Sunrise Boat Ride | 5:30–7:30 AM | Calm & spiritual |
| Evening Boat Ride | During Aarti | Grand & vibrant |
| Private Boat | Any time | Personalized |
| Shared Boat | Peak hours | Budget friendly |
π§ Best 3-Day Varanasi Itinerary
Day 1: Spiritual Core
Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Annapurna Temple
Evening Ganga Aarti
Night ghat walk
Day 2: Ghats & Culture
Sunrise boat ride
Assi Ghat
Banaras Hindu University
Sankat Mochan Temple
Day 3: Sarnath Excursion
Dhamek Stupa
Sarnath Museum
Shopping for Banarasi silk & souvenirs
π How to Reach Varanasi
By Air: Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport
By Train: Varanasi Junction / Manduadih
By Road: Well connected to Ayodhya, Prayagraj & Gaya
π Cab services available with Shivakashi Travels
π¨ Where to Stay in Varanasi
Budget hotels near ghats
Mid-range hotels in Godowlia
Premium stays near Assi & Cantonment
π Varanasi Tour Packages by Shivakashi Travels
✔ 1 Day / 2 Day / 3 Day Kashi Tour
✔ Ganga Aarti Boat Booking
✔ Varanasi–Ayodhya–Gaya Tours
✔ Hotel + Cab + Darshan Packages
π Call Now: +91 9278322002
π Website: https://shivakashitravels.com/
❓ FAQs – Varanasi Travel Guide
Q. Is Varanasi safe for families?
Yes, Varanasi is safe and welcoming for families and senior citizens.
Q. How many days are enough for Varanasi?
2–3 days are perfect for temples, ghats, and Sarnath.
Q. Can I book boat ride & darshan in advance?
Yes, advance booking is recommended—especially during peak season.
π Final Thoughts
Varanasi is not just a destination—it’s a spiritual awakening. Whether you come for devotion, culture, or curiosity, Kashi transforms every traveler.
✨ Let Shivakashi Travels handle your journey while you focus on the experience.
π +91 9278322002
π https://shivakashitravels.com/