
Varanasi
Ghats on the Ganges, dawn boat rides and evening aarti ceremonies.
- Budget level
- Very affordable
- Best months
- Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
- Ideal stay
- 2–3 days
- Best for
- Culture, Backpacking
Overview
Ghats on the Ganges, dawn boat rides and evening aarti ceremonies. It is one of the places we suggest when planning a trip to India.
Plan & book
Stays, activities and transport for Varanasi will be bookable here soon.
Curated stays by area and budget will appear here once hotel partners are connected.
Bookable experiences will appear here once activity partners are connected.
Rental pickup options will appear here once car partners are connected.
Why go to Varanasi
- A representative city stop on most India itineraries
- Fits the wider South Asia travel style
Budget
Varanasi is very affordable by India standards. Across India, mid-range travellers typically spend about $50–$100 per person per day.
Country-level planning estimate, excluding flights. See the full India budget breakdown.
Practical information
- Language
- Hindi, English and 20+ other official languages; English is widely used in tourism, business and signage
- Currency
- Indian rupee (INR)
- Power
- Type C/D/M, 230V
- Entry
- Most nationalities need a visa, commonly available as an e-Visa — verify current official requirements before booking.
When to go to Varanasi
Plan 2–3 days here. Highlighted months are the best fit for most travellers.
Getting around
- Indian Railways covers the country cheaply and comprehensively; book reserved classes well ahead
- Domestic flights are inexpensive and save days on long north–south legs
Suggested itineraries
Varanasi fits into a wider trip around India. See India itineraries.


