Fairs & Festivals of Varanasi
Varanasi celebrates numerous festivals with grandeur and devotion. Dev Diwali, celebrated two weeks after Diwali, is a sight to behold, with the ghats illuminated by thousands of oil lamps. Maha Shivaratri, in honor of Lord Shiva, draws large crowds for prayers and processions. The Ganga Mahotsav, a cultural festival held in November, features music, dance, and craft exhibitions along the ghats. During Holi, the city comes alive with colors and joy, while Buddha Purnima is marked by prayers and celebrations at Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon. These festivals showcase Varanasi’s spiritual and cultural richness.
Read more +Best Time to Visit Varanasi
The best time to visit Varanasi is between October and March when the weather is cool and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 25°C. This period is ideal for exploring the ghats, temples, and bustling streets of the city. Summers (April to June) can be scorching, with temperatures exceeding 40°C, making it challenging for sightseeing. The monsoon season (July to September) brings heavy rainfall, which can lead to high water levels in the Ganges, limiting access to some ghats. Winter, therefore, is the most comfortable season for visiting Varanasi.
Read more +How to Reach Varanasi
Varanasi is well-connected by
road, with regular buses and taxis from nearby cities like Allahabad, Lucknow, and Gorakhpur.
National highways link Varanasi to other parts of Uttar Pradesh and neighboring states.
Varanasi Junction (BSB) and
Kashi Junction are the primary railway stations, with frequent trains from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata,
and other major cities.
The Lal Bahadur Shastri
International Airport is about 26 kilometers from the city center and offers domestic flights as
well as some international flights. Taxis and buses are available from the airport to the city.
Tourist Attractions in Varanasi
Varanasi is home to some of India's most iconic spiritual and cultural sites. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the most revered temples and a must-visit for pilgrims. The ghats along the Ganges River, especially Dashashwamedh Ghat, are famous for their daily evening aarti, a mesmerizing ritual involving prayers, music, and lamps. The Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple and Durga Temple are other important spiritual sites. Sarnath, located a few kilometers away, is a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site where Buddha gave his first sermon. The Ramnagar Fort, situated on the opposite bank of the Ganges, offers a glimpse into the city’s royal heritage.
Read more +Location
Varanasi is located in eastern Uttar Pradesh, along the left bank of the Ganges River. The city’s strategic location near the confluence of important pilgrimage routes has made it a significant cultural, educational, and religious hub for centuries. Its proximity to other major cities like Lucknow and Patna enhances its connectivity, adding to its status as one of India’s most visited spiritual destinations.
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