The best time to visit Varanasi is from November to February when the weather is pleasant and comfortable for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The temperature during this period ranges from 5°C to 15°C, making it ideal for exploring the city’s temples, ghats, and markets.
The city also organizes a number of festivals and events around this time, including Dev Deepawali, Ganga Mahotsav, and the Kumbh Mela, which draw lots of visitors and devotees from all over the world.
The best time to go is from October to March when the river’s water level is high and the weather is favorable if you wish to enjoy the city’s spiritual side and see the Ganga Aarti ceremony at the Dashashwamedh Ghat.
The hot and muggy summer months of April to June can reach temperatures of 45 °C, making outdoor activities miserable. It is challenging to visit the city during the monsoon season, which lasts from July to September.
Varanasi’s Weather Overview
Varanasi’s weather can be divided into three main seasons: summer, monsoon, and winter.
Summer in Varanasi starts in March and lasts till June. During this time, the temperature can reach up to 45°C, and the humidity can make the weather extremely uncomfortable. This period is not ideal for outdoor activities, and visitors are advised to stay hydrated and avoid direct sunlight.
Monsoon season in Varanasi starts in July and lasts till September. This period brings heavy rainfall and floods, making it difficult to navigate the city’s narrow lanes and visit the ghats. However, the rainfall also brings relief from the scorching summer heat.
Winter in Varanasi starts in November and lasts till February. This is the best time to visit the city as the temperature during this period ranges from 5°C to 15°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
The weather is pleasant and comfortable, and visitors can explore the city’s temples, ghats, and markets without any discomfort.
Peak Tourist Season in Varanasi
The peak tourist season in Varanasi is from November to February, during the winter season when the weather is mild and pleasant.
During this time, the city attracts a large number of tourists from all over the world who come to explore the city’s spiritual and cultural heritage.
The Ghats of Varanasi is a major attraction for tourists during this period. Visitors can take a boat ride on the river Ganges and witness the famous Ganga Aarti ceremony at the Dashashwamedh Ghat.
The city also hosts several festivals and events during this period, including Dev Deepawali, Ganga Mahotsav, and the Kumbh Mela, which attracts a large number of tourists and devotees.
Due to the high influx of tourists during this period, it is advisable to book accommodations and transportation in advance.
The prices of hotels and restaurants may also be higher during this time compared to the off-season.
Nevertheless, the peak tourist season in Varanasi offers a vibrant and lively atmosphere, making it an ideal time to visit the city and experience its rich cultural heritage.
how to reach Varanasi
Varanasi is a popular tourist destination and is well-connected to major cities in India via air, rail, and road.
By Air:
Varanasi’s Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport is well-connected to major cities in India and abroad. Several airlines operate regular flights to and from Varanasi, making it easy for travelers to reach the city.
By Train:
Varanasi is well-connected to major cities in India via rail. The city has two railway stations – Varanasi Junction and Mughalsarai Junction, which are connected to several cities in India. Trains such as the Rajdhani Express, Shatabdi Express, and Duronto Express operate regular services to and from Varanasi.
By Road:
Varanasi is connected to major cities in Uttar Pradesh and neighboring states via a well-developed road network. The city is connected to cities like Lucknow, Allahabad, and Kanpur via national highways. Several state-run and private buses operate regular services to and from Varanasi.
places to visit at Varanasi
Varanasi is a city of spiritual and cultural significance, with several places to visit that reflect its rich heritage and history. Some of the must-visit places in Varanasi include:
Kashi Vishwanath Temple - One of the most sacred and revered temples in Varanasi, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Dashashwamedh Ghat - A famous ghat on the river Ganges, known for its evening Ganga Aarti ceremony and boat rides.
Sarnath - A Buddhist pilgrimage site located just outside Varanasi, famous for its ancient Buddhist stupas and temples.
Manikarnika Ghat - One of the oldest and most important ghats in Varanasi, where Hindu cremations take place.
Assi Ghat - A popular ghat located at the confluence of the Ganges and the Assi river, known for its beautiful sunrise views and boat rides.
Ramnagar Fort - A historic fort and palace located on the banks of the Ganges, famous for its museum and collection of vintage cars.
Bharat Kala Bhavan - A museum located inside the Banaras Hindu University, housing a vast collection of art, archeological artifacts, and manuscripts.
Kedar Ghat - A picturesque ghat on the Ganges, known for its ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Tulsi Manas Temple - A beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Rama, known for its intricate carvings and depictions of the Ramayana.
Banaras Ghats - A stretch of more than 80 ghats along the Ganges, offering a unique experience of the city's spiritual and cultural significance.accommodation options
Varanasi offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Some of the popular types of accommodation in Varanasi include:
Hotels - There are several hotels in Varanasi, ranging from budget to luxury, that offer comfortable rooms, amenities, and services.
Guesthouses - Guesthouses are a popular choice among budget travelers, offering basic amenities and services at affordable rates.
Homestays - Homestays offer a unique experience of living with a local family, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the city's culture and traditions.
Hostels - Hostels are a popular choice among backpackers and solo travelers, offering affordable dormitory-style accommodation and facilities.
Resorts - There are several resorts located outside the city, offering luxurious accommodation, amenities, and activities.Some of the popular areas to stay in Varanasi include the old city, near the ghats, and the area around the Banaras Hindu University.
The prices of accommodation in Varanasi may vary depending on the location, amenities, and season.
It is advisable to book accommodation in advance, especially during the peak tourist season, to avoid any inconvenience.
FAQ about the best time to visit Varanasi
When is the best time to visit Varanasi?
The best time to visit Varanasi is from November to February when the weather is pleasant and cool, making it perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Is it advisable to visit Varanasi during the monsoon season?
Varanasi experiences heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, which may lead to flooding and inconvenience. It is advisable to avoid visiting Varanasi during the monsoon season (June to September).
Is it advisable to visit Varanasi during the summer season?
Varanasi experiences extreme heat and humidity during the summer season (March to May), which may make it uncomfortable for travelers. It is advisable to avoid visiting Varanasi during the summer season.
Can I witness the Ganga Aarti ceremony during any season?
Yes, the Ganga Aarti ceremony takes place every day in the evening throughout the year. However, the experience may vary depending on the season and crowd.
Will I be able to take a boat ride on the Ganges during any season?
Yes, boat rides are available throughout the year. However, it is advisable to avoid taking boat rides during the monsoon season due to heavy rainfall and rough waters.
Is it advisable to visit Varanasi during festivals like Diwali and Holi?
Varanasi is a city of festivals, and Diwali and Holi are two of the most important festivals celebrated here. However, the city gets extremely crowded during these festivals, which may make it challenging to navigate and enjoy the experience. It is advisable to plan your visit accordingly and book accommodation in advance.