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Varanasi [1], once known as Benares or Banaras and Kashi, is a historical city in northern
India. The city is sacred to Hindus and also one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the
world. In many ways Varanasi epitomizes the very best and worst aspects of India, and it can be
a little overwhelming. However, the scene of pilgrims doing their devotions in the River Ganga
at sunrise set against the backdrop of the centuries old temples is probably one of the most
impressive sights in the world. Some people believe that Varanasi is a must see destination on
any trip to northern India.
The city can be scorchingly hot in the summer months so, if possible, time your visit to fall
between October and March, and bring something warm to wear for chilly days and nights,
instead.
Get in[edit]
Varanasi is well connected by train and bus, with multiple of each heading in every direction
daily. The trains and buses are dirty and overcrowded by Western standards. The people,
however, are warm and accomodate westerners who are unfamiliar with their customs and don't
take offense when you don't follow their ways.
By train[edit]
Trains are the easiest way to reach Varanasi, with multiple daily services to cities including
Delhi, Agra, Lucknow, Mumbai and Kolkata.
Varanasi is served by two major railway stations. Many trains arrive at Varanasi Junction (IR
station code : BSB) in the heart of the city, and many others arrive at Mughal Sarai Junction
(IR station code : MGS), about 15 km east of the city. It is a 40 min drive from Mughasarai to
Godowlia in Varanasi. Godowlia is the main market place and most happening place. An auto
rickshaw takes Rs 200 from Mughasarai station to godowlia in varanasi. A small car like Alto,
Indica if available will take around Rs 400-450 for a drop. The rates are provided as on April,
2014. If travelling to/from Agra/Tundla, Mughal Sarai is a more convenient station.
Here is a list of useful trains to reach Varanasi:
Train
Number
Train Name
12424
Rajdhani Express
New Delhi
12436
Rajdhani Express
Varanasi Junction
12560
Shivganga Express
New Delhi
Manduadih Varanasi
12165
Lokmanya Tilak
Varanasi Junction
Varanasi Express
Terminus (Mumbai)
12336
Lokmanya Tilak
Terminus (Mumbai)
12333
Vibhuti Express
Howrah (Kolkata)
12307
Howrah-Jodhpur Express
Howrah (Kolkata)
12669
Chennai Central
Varanasi Junction
12295
Sangamitra Express
17091
Secunderabad-Patna
Express
Secunderabad
(Hyderabad)
14854
Marudhar Express
Varanasi Junction
14864
Marudhar Express
Varanasi Junction
By bus[edit]
From Nepal: To get to Varansi from Chitwan, Lumbini, Kathmandu and Pokhara is relatively
simple and cheap. Get a bus to the bus park at Sunauli, from there take a rickshaw (200 NPR) to
the border crossing, get your passport stamped on the Nepali side then walk through the border.
The Indian immigration office is hidden away on the left hand side of the road after 100m. From
here the bus stop is on the right hand side after 300m. Be sure to get the government bus to
Gorakhpur, not the private lines which are far less comfy and stop everywhere. The bus to
Gorakhpur is 4 hours, when you arrive there walk straight ahead to the train station, from where
you can pick up an 11pm overnight to Varanasi which should in theory arrive at 6am. Make sure
you get off at Varanasi Junction, not Varanasi City. There are other services that run earlier if
11pm is inconvenient. A first class non-AC from Gorakhpur to Varanasi Junction is around 400
IRP.
To Nepal / Northern India: There are daily buses to the Nepal border and other points around
northern India. Local buses leave from the main bus station near the train station, almost every
hour in the morning and one in the evening, to Gorakhpur (5-6 hrs, Rs 120), from where buses
leave to the Nepali border at Sonauli (~3 hrs, Rs 56). There are buses run by state government
from Lucknow (8hrs), Gorakhpur (4hrs), Kanpur (9hrs - Rs. 195) and Allahabad(3hrs - Rs. 88).
There are buses run by state government from Lucknow (8hrs), Gorakphur (8hrs) Kanpur (9hrs Rs. 195) and Allahabad(3hrs - Rs. 88)
By plane[edit]
Varanasi Airport (IATA: VNS) is about 25km from the city center. Air India [2], JetKonnect
[3], SpiceJet [4] and IndiGo [5] all have daily flights to Delhi and there are daily flights to
Mumbai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Khajuraho and Visakhapatnam on JetKonnect ,Air
India, SpiceJet and IndiGo.
Allow plenty of time to get to the airport, it can take an hour or more depending on traffic. A taxi
(from the pre-paid stand just outside the terminal) should run around Rs 600-700 (plus Rs40
parking toll) or about Rs 125 in an auto-rickshaw, but most drivers will want to charge double
since they will likely be coming back empty.
Get around[edit]
Many of the sights are in the tiny narrow winding alleys of the waterfront. Rickshaws are only
useful for longer trips across town or to the train stations. A cycle-rickshaw from the Junction
train station to Dasaswamedh Ghat (or Godaulia if the road is closed) should cost Rs 20, an auto
rickshaw about Rs 70. From Godaulia to Assi Ghat is Rs 10. Again, these prices are bound to
change with changes in the value of the rupeeTaxis exist but traffic makes them impractical.
There is a pre-paid auto-rickshaw stand at the Varanasi Junction (Cantt) train station, however if
you go with this option make sure to keep your prepaid receipt until the end of your journey, or
your driver may not take you the whole way. Rs55 is enough to get to the old town.
By foot is the only way to see the waterfront and the ghats but be ready to be hot, sweaty, and
lost - locals are usually happy to point you in the right direction. The names of ghats and signs
pointing to restaurants and hotels are often painted on the walls in Roman letters. For better
orientation, walk into any book store and pick up a small guide/map book that will have the list
of all the ghats and their historical background.
Walking Tours
Heritage Walk Tour (Varanasi Walking Tours or Green tourism), Near Goverment
Tourist Office (Opp. Railway station), +91 964 800 0010
(sankrittourzone@gmail.com, fax: +91 524 2200201), [6]. Call us 24 hrs X 7. edit
Sankrit Taxi services (Varanasi Car Rental or Taxi), Near Goverment Tourist Office
(Opp. Railway station), +91 964 800 0010 (sankrittourzone@gmail.com, fax: +91 524
2200201), [7]. Call us 24 hrs X 7. Sarnath Tour(4 hrs) - INR 800 / 4 Temples Tour(4 hrs)
- INR 700, Bodhgaya(Same day Tour) - INR 5000/ Allahabad(Same day Tour) - INR
2800 Fares starting from 700 for within city and Rs.7/km for outstation. edit
taxiGUIDE.in (Varanasi Car Rental), +91 888 023 4455 (support@taxiguide.in), [8].
Inquiry: 7am to 11pm. Fares starting Rs.1222 for within city and Rs.9.5/km for
outstation. edit
"Bikes on Rent" is one of its type services being offered first time in Varanasi by "Oza
Travels n Bike Rentals". It is exclusively available for tourists only. Their range of bikes
include Pulsar, Apache, Discover, Platina, and Royal Enfield also.
For availing this service, you can contact through phone on 91-95803 60440 or email at
rajesh.oza7@gmail.com.
See[edit][add listing]
Vishwanath Temple - also known as the Golden Temple, security is tight making
entrance difficult and sometimes completely off limits to foreigners. No bags, cellphones
or pens are allowed. They can be deposited in the shops by the temple entrance. The
temple was destroyed multiple times by Mughal invaders and was re-constructed by
Hindu kings who followed them.
Kaal Bhairav Temple - is the temple for Kaal Bhairav - a dreaded form of the Lord in
Shiva avatar symbolizing death. Its a tradition to buy a black thread (cost about Rs. 15
per 50 threads as of Sep 2009), sanctify it in the shrine, then wear it on the arm, wrist or
around the neck as protection against evil.
Nepali Hindu Temple - A small golden temple, built in Nepali architecture, near Lalita
Ghat
Alamagir Mosque - overlooking Panchganga Ghat, it's a great place for a bird's eye view
of the area.
Durga Temple
Banaras Hindu University - a very green and peaceful campus. Few actually know that
this University was built during the Indian freedom struggle and is known as Oxford of
the East. This is the largest residential university of Asia, with 124 departments. You can
also visit Bharat Kala Bhavan, a museum of Art and Archeology inside the university.
There is also a huge white marbled temple called Vishwanath Temple which was bulit by
Pt. Madan Mohan Malviya, the founder of the university.
Sarnath - It is believed that in Sarnath Buddha gave his first sermon to his disciples after
getting enlightenment. There is also a Museum in Sarnath. The location is also known as
Deer Park. Sarnath is 13 Km from Varanasi and is very peaceful. Several Asian countries
have built Buddhist temples there following their own ancient architectural traditions.
Ram Nagar Fort - the fort of the King of Kashi which is situated at the other side of the
river.
Gauri Matha Temple - The devi at this temple is supposed to be the sister of the lord
Kashi Vishwanath. Its a tradition to visit here just before you leave Kashi. You buy sea
shells at this place and offer them to God saying that the virtues of donating the shells
goes to her while you keep the virtues of having visited the holy shrines in Kashi and
bathing in the ganga. The trip to Kashi is expected to yield results only after completing
this custom.
Sankat Mochan Temple - The famous Hanuman temple, home to thousands of monkeys.
Securiy is tight, mobile phones, keys etc. are not allowed inside the temple as a result of
moslem terrorist bomb blasts; and as you enter you will be greeted by the sight of
hundreds of monkeys on the premises. Beware- they may snatch from you if they see you
carrying boxes or packets of food. Inside the temple you will find stacks of hanuman
chalisa text for the use of devotees.
Ghats[edit]
Floating away
While the use of ghats for
cremation is well known, they are
also used to give last rites to those
who do not need cleansing by fire to
purify their soul, including young
children and pregnant women.
Instead, their bodies are wrapped in
cloth, weighted with stones and
eased into the Ganga. However, it is
fairly common for the ropes to give
way, resulting in putrefying
corpses washing up on the east
shore across from the city. Steer
clear if squeamish.
Manikarnika Ghat - the main cremation ghat; a must-see, but remain quiet and never
take photographs (note: scams are plentiful here; see the "Staying Safe" section)
Dasaswamedh Ghat - the main ghat and site of the large evening aarti; only reachable
by foot at some times of day, about a 5 minute walk south from Godulia
Rana Ghat
Kedar Ghat - brightly painted in stripes and busy with bathers, very photogenic
Narad Ghat - the ghat on which bathing with spouse is not advised because the legend of
contention
Harishchandra Ghat - the cremation place were Raja Harishchandra did the last rituals
of his son.
Hanuman Ghat
Shivala Ghat
Assi Ghat - a popular place to stay with many hotels, restaurants and internet cafes
Festivals[edit]
Shivaratri is another great time to be in Varanasi. The day of Shivaratri is also the last
day of the Dhrupad Mela, a festival of "Hindustani" (a form of Indian classical music)
that goes on night and day for about 72 hours. Since the date of the festival is decided by
Hindu lunar calendar, it changes (per the western, or Gregorian, calendar) every year.
Do[edit][add listing]
Bathe Over 60,000 people come down to the waters edge every day to take a dip in the
sacred waters of the Ganga, reputed to have healing benefits. This is a fantastic site to
see. However, due to sewage pipes discharging into the river along with sunken corpses,
it is not recommended to join in. There is a risk of infection from numerous diseases and
bacteria.
Boat rides are very popular, especially at sunrise and sunset. The most popular sunset
ride is to start at Dasaswamedh Ghat and head up to Manikarnika Ghat to see the
cremations in progress, and then return to Dasaswamedh and watch the evening aarti
from the boat. Sunrise is another magical time for a ride, when the ghats are filled with
Hindus bathing and starting their day - one of the most famous sights in India. You can
bargain the price down to around Rs 50/person per hour, but expect to be quoted much
higher the current bargained down 'foreign tourist' rate for a boat ride is Rs 300! In
fact there is a price limit set by the city in 1998 but still in force today that sets a price
range from Rs 50 for boats up to four seats to a maximum of 125 for very large boats.
(That's per hour and boat not per person.) At Dasaswamedh there is even a huge sign (in
Hindi only) alerting tourists to that fact. If you go Nishadraj ghat, a few minutes walk
from Assi, you can find a boat driver named Bhomi, a local singer renowned for his
incredible voice and charming, beautiful songs; during the boat ride he sings anything
from local folk songs to modern film songs and old devotional ones, and often improvises
lyrics over his own songs to communicate with you and the various people gathered on
the ghats.
Otherwise, many hotels in Varanasi organise 'free' boat rides for you, the catch being that the
'free' portion of the ride is usually only half an hour, and after seeing 30mins of the river enough
people agree to pay for more to make it worth their while.
flower bowl and Rs 5 per candle bowl are the going rates as of even date, though as a tourist you
might be asked for as much as Rs 100 each.
Walk Get lost in the alleyways - the sounds, sight and smells are just unbelievable! Walk
along the ghats and up to the sights. The best way to explore Varanasi is by foot.
Kriti Gallery, Raman Niwas, Mahmoor Ganj, Varanasi (opposite All India Radio
Station), 9839058007, [9]. 11-6 pm. A place to interact with contemporary art in the
city of Varanasi edit
Chhath festival. The Chhath festival is a very colorful festival at the bank of the Ganges
in Varanasi. The rituals of the festival are rigorous and are observed over a period of four
days. They include holy bathing, fasting and abstaining from drinking water (Vratta),
standing in water for long periods of time, and offering prashad (prayer offerings) and
aragh to the setting and rising sun.This is an ancient Hindu festival and only Vedic
Festival dedicated to the Hindu Sun God, Surya, also known as Surya Shasht. Most of the
time they celebrate it in NovemberThis year its on the 8 november edit
Learn[edit]
Hindi Teacher Varanasi, B1/153, Ganga Math, Assi Ghat, Varanasi 221005 Uttar
Pradesh, India (near Banaras Hindu University), 91 9452247010
(info@hinditeachervaranasi.com), [10]. Interested in learning Hindi? On site tutoring at
Varanasi and Madurai. And Online tutoring elsewhere. Learn Hindi with Hindi Teacher
Varanasi, flexible, economic and effective language institute founded by Binit Kumar
Mishra. They have spent many years teaching Hindi for different university programs as
well as individual and group classes through effective instructors. A little Hindi opens
many doors. edit
Benares Hindu University [12] offers a wide range of classes on topics related to
classical Indian studies in English.
'Super Lingua Solution' a translation company based in Varansi, (Shop No. 17, ABC
Tower, Sigra, Varanasi) may help you to bridge the gap of language. You can contact
Rajesh Kumar Ojha-95803 60440, rajesh.oza7@gmail.com for any kind of help.
Buy[edit][add listing]
Varanasi is famous for its fine silk - it's on offer everywhere, but shop around and bargain hard!
If you are buying a silk scarf, make sure you ask if it is a pure silk scarf or artificial silk.
Atrificial is cheaper, and you should be able to purchase it for about 50 to 75 rupees (this will
keep changing with time). But be prepared to hear 200 rupees for a fake one!! The real silk
scarves can be bargain down to about 150 rupees or sometimes 100 rupees. Be prepared to hear
650 rupees as asking price!!
Mehrotra Silk Factory, K 4-8A, Lal Ghat, Raj Mandir (near Brahma Ghat, follow the
multiple yellow signs), (0091)542 2435892. Government Approved. Has set,
reasonable prices and a good selection of handwoven pure silk Sarees, dress materials,
bedcovers and hot chocolate and other silk materials. edit
Wow India, Assi Ghat (the big corner shop, follow the tourists). A large collection of
handicrafts from all over the country, good herbal teas, incense and plenty more. Prices
are moderate and fixed. edit
Sri Guru Perfumers, D, 32/15, Munshi Ghat (Bengali Tola Lane, before Spicie Bites).
Very nice selection of perfumes and natural oils, some of them are made by the family of
the owner Shankar Roy. Homemade incenses are great. You enter Bengali Tola Lane on
the way to Dasaswamedh Ghat. Turn at the Bank of Baroda ATM. There is another
perfume shop on the corner before Sri Guru Perfumers, so be aware. edit
The Bed (thebedvaranasi@gmail.com), b1/153 ganga math assi varanasi (near palach
on ganges hotel), 00 91 9918280738, [13]. 9 am. A shop for all kind of gifts(like all
kinds of silk materials and scarfs). Much more to see. 300. edit
Eat[edit][add listing]
There are numerous food outlets and a very dynamic range in quality. The restaurants closer to
the ghats cater more to foreign tourists, with variable success. To get really authentic Banarasi
Khana you're going to have to get to the main market area or, better, to have a Varanasi friend
inviting you at home. Benares Dum Aloo is a local specialty, and the city is also known for its
desserts. You can't go away from Varanasi without eating local specialities as aloo chat and pani
puri and, in general, the street food. Paan, a betel nut mixture usually containing tobacco, is not
really food, but is something Varanasi is famous for all over India.
Nice cafe, Bengali Tola (near Mona Lisa, on turn off for Vishnu GH). 7am - late. Great
food cooked only by mum and family. Home kitchen. Clean. Friendly and helpful owner.
Very reasonable prices, except on festival days when hot chocolate is poured over
everyone for a fixed price of 1000 rupees per person. Check out the garlic / cheese nan
and the pancakes! 25-55 for meal. edit
Shiv Lassi Bhandar: (near the main gate of RamNagar Fort) Lassi with layers of Malai
and Rabri. Superb Stuff.
Kashi Chat Center: (near Godowlia Crossing) Good assortment of exotic chats. Try out
the Aloo Tikia Chat.
Rabri/Malai shops: (a couple of shops, near Godowlia Crossing opposite to the Church)
Try out fresh rabri and malai in the evening (7PM-9PM). Really good stuff !!! One of the
best rabri shops is on the alleyway that leads to the vishwanath temple (the main shiva
temple) from the Dashashwamedh Ghat side. This is a tiny hole-in-the-wall rabri shop
next to a big sari shop (Kanjilal and company) and loads of shops selling bangles.
Another excellent place for rabri & malai is Atul's shop (6-12 pm), another hole-in-the wall shop
on the alley that starts beside the Bank of Baroda ATM on Dasaswamedh ghat ; just ask anybody
for Atul Bhaiyyas shop once you enter the alley.
Madhur Jalpan:The best place for laddoos and other famous sweet delicacies is 'Madhur
Jalpan', a shop that has been frequented by more than two prime ministers of India!
Madhur Jalpan is on Baradev - next to the Kainiya Chitra Mandir(now Spice KCM).
Again, on a small alleyway, but the sweets are to die for.
New Bread of Life Bakery (Bread, Cakes and Brownies in Varanasi), Main Road,
Parallel to Shivala Ghat (Just past the junction at Shivala Ghat, on your left/hand side
heading towards Assi Ghat), 09415818188. 7am-10pm. The most amazing Chocolate
brownies and Apple pies! Plus good homemade brown bread. Wonderful chocolate chip
cookies; pack of three for 60 Rupees, or one for 25. edit
Lotus Lounge, D 14/27, Mansrowar Ghat,, +91 98 38 567717. A very nice place to
relax and get safe and tasty food.With a nice view over the river and the ghats mid range.
edit
Budget[edit]
Shiva Cafe and German Bakery, D 26/4 Narad Ghat, (near Himalaya Lodge). In the
main little alleyway that runs parallel to the river between Dasaswamedh Ghat and Assi
Ghat, this place is deservedly popular. The food takes time, but that's because it's
prepared fresh, and you'll be happy you waited when the food arrives. Staffed by
enterprising Nepalis this has authentic pastas, sandwiches etc.Healthy food. Favourite
amongst long stay residents.
Mona Lisa Cafe, (just south and opposite Shiva Cafe). Another good and popular
cheapie, with a good range of things on offer, notably a thali for Rs 20, and some
Japanese and Korean dishes thrown in for good measure.
A C Shahi Restaurant & Kesari Restaurant near Dasashwmedh ghat in Godaulia and
Shahi Restaurant near Rathyatra crossing serve very good vegetarian north / south
indian dishes.
Diamond Hotel and Jaika Restaurant near Vijaya Talkies Crossing in Bhelupur serve
very good north Indian dishes.
Ganga View on the roof of sita guest house d 22/16 chaustti ghat, varanasi,up
india,Indian Continental and Western Food Fresh Food and Purified Water (Non-veg not
available)
99 Not Out - Veg Cafe, 6 Kashiraj Apartment, Kamachha (Rly Stn - BHU main road
near Rathyatra), 0091-9415226752, [14]. 12.00 Noon to 10.30 PM. Extremely neat &
clean place serving pure veg burgers, pizza, pasta, chowmein, hot dog etc. A wide range
of thick shakes and exclusive cold drinks alongwith full range of Ice Creams. edit
Classic cafe, perfect space for chinese and indian fusion snacks,Good place for group gathering.
Mid-range[edit]
Weekly Event:A movie is shown every Sunday at 6pm followed by a special dinner.
Aum Cafe / Ayurvedic Cafe : near Assi Ghat, owned and run by Shivani Ayurvedic
food/ Organic Teas and Coffees, Healthy Vegan/ Vegetarian friendly atmosphere with free
Wi Fi. Hearty nutritious dishes. Some Indian and western choices. Located behind the
temple on Assi Ghat.
Madhur Milan Cafe, Dashashwamedh Road, is a nice place for Indian snacks and meals
at cheap prices. The price range for a persons full meal varies between Rs. 40 - 150. Cafe
is primarily famous for its fried hot samosas, dosa and kachori sabji. Website : [16].
Megu Cafe, Kalika Gali (near Meer Ghat), has excellent vegetarian Japanese food made
by a Japanese woman who settled in Varanasi a number of years ago. All dishes are Rs.
85 or less. Closed on Sundays. [December 2011] Menu prices of all items have increased
and expect to pay around Rs. 100-130 for a vegetarian and around Rs. 180-200 for non
vegetarian main meal.
Open Hand Shop & Cafe, Assi Ghat, (around the corner from Hotel Haifa), +91 542
2369 751, [17]. The bakery has daily fresh bread, cakes, pies & various pastries. The food
selection includes set breakfast, salads, breadrolls and fruit salad. The espresso-based
coffees and fresh fruit smoothies are the main attractions. The shop is selling fixed-price
merchandise on fair-trade principles. Free Internet
Flavours Cafe, Lanka, ('above axis bank). Great coffee and desserts. Strong filter coffee
and lighly accented lattes with a quiet ambiance make for a needed break from the city.
Free wireless is also a plus.
Brown Bread Bakery, near Meer ghat, 09838888823. Is a good bakery run by a German
baker in Varanasi, be wary of the Indian run bakery on the opposite side of the road who
claims charity but is just fake. Breads and pastries made from organically grown
ingredients. Also a nice range of cheeses. The restaurant has a large menu including
Continental, Italian, German and Indian classics, has a great rooftop and offers a
breakfast buffet from 7 to 12. Quality is mostly pretty good and a part of the proceeds
supports the Learn For Life society which operates a free school for disadvantaged
children in Aurangabad, Varanasi. www.brownbreadbakery.com; www.learn-for-life.net
Bread of Life Bakery, Shivala Road, (a few hundred metres north of Assi Ghat), +91
542 227 5012. Good baked goods, but also a full restaurant with okay breakfasts
including "American" pancakes and canned-OJ (freshly-squeezed no longer). Used to be
very popular but the quality is now questionable.
Zaika restaurant - in Shivala, opposite Hotel Broadway. Good Indian / Chinese dishes;
try the sweet-corn-pakoras.
Moti Mahal Delux restaurant - in Sigra, 3rd Floor, IP Mall, in the heart of the city. +91542-2220555. One of the best Indian and mughlai restaurant in the city with a unique fine
dining experience. Also provides free delivery of your meal at any location in the city.
Also serves authentic chinese and continental.
Middle-Eastern Food[edit]
Possibly due to a high influx of tourists from Israel, a number of Middle Eastern restaurants have
opened in Varanasi, all of which serve very similar food, cater to a predominantly tourist
clientle, and charge a little over Rs 100 for a thali.
Hayat mediterreian': near Assi (new location= behind dumraon bag colony park),
managed by authentic middle-easterners (from Jordan). Try the labanha (dry yoghurt), or
the baba ghanSoush (eggplant) with pita. The Nanas (mint-lemon drink) are the best in
town. The feta is a tad high in salt, but at least they have it. The restaurant has a tent-like
lounge atmosphere that gives it a cult presence. Ask for "hello to the queen" and see
smiles.
Phulwari / Sami Cafe: near the Vishwanath Temple crossing, you sit beside a religiously
near-defunct but architecturally gorgeous Mahadev temple, and sip on iced teas and
nanas. Some locals still consider this a holy site and aren't too happy about the cafe being
so close.
This temple has been usurped by thugs who sponsor this restaurant. Avoid on ethical grounds. No
other heritage Indian temple has a restaurant in its courtyard !
Splurge[edit]
Varuna and Chowk, Taj Ganges Hotel, Nadesar Palace Grounds. Tel+91 542 250-300 Two restaurants respectively offering Indian and Western cuisine.
Drink[edit][add listing]
help
Alcohol is available at a few restaurants and hotels, such as the Radisson and Taj. There
are several wine shops in the old city but they don't offer any sitting arrangement. You
can buy whatever you want and bring it to your hotel room.
Bhang is a potent, powdered form of marijuana often mixed into "special" lassis, simply
called bhang lassi. The drink is especially popular on holidays as Varanasi is a major
center of Shiva worship as it is offered to the lord in form of Prashad. It can be quite
intoxicating.
Thandai is cool milk based drink made with pistachios, almonds and kesar and topped
off with a large dollop of malai (cream). Bhang is often added to thicken the concoction,
though it can be made without. Many Tandai stores are located near the main Godowlia,
and most also serve lassi.
Sleep[edit][add listing]
The most interesting area to stay is around the ghats. This is where most foreigners hang out and with good reason. In addition to the ghats and river, Varanasi's most famous temples and
main market are all located in this area. Another choice is Sarnath, about 8km from Varanasi. It is
a little removed from 'the action' but much safer and calmer than Varanasi.
Some budget accommodations advertise free morning and evening boat rides along the river.
Technically, it is not free. The boat will take you half-way along the river and then let the boatload of passengers know that for the second-half there is a fee of 60 rupees per person. Those
who do not want to continue can get out of the boat and walk back to their lodging.
Beware that Varanasi, particularly during summer, is prone to many hours of power outages a
day. It is best to double check that you fan of A/C is run from a backup generator, or you may not
have it for much of the day.
Budget[edit]
Stops Art Hostel, (info@stopshostels.com), [19]. checkout: Noon. Bright, airy, super
modern hostel located 5 mins away from the Ganges down a quiet alleyway away from
all the noise and dirt. The closest Ghat is Harishchandra which is a secondary cremation
Ghat and just under halfway along the line of Ghats running north to south. The hostel
itself is western, extremely clean, within a walled area and spread over 3 floors with
several dorm rooms and well looked after western bathrooms, no dingy latrines at this
place! Common areas both inside and out are in abundance and wifi is consistent and fast
on all floors. The hostel is run by a very professional young Indian couple with superb
English and a very keen understanding of what a hostel should be with full
recommendations for eating, drinking, tourism etc. It has A/C, 24 hour security and a
very happy relaxed vibe, especially out on the shaded balconies on the upper floor,
complete with benches and sofas, great for meeting other travellers. Highly
recommended. Dorms/Private rooms Rs. 400+ per night.. edit
Hotel Ganges, Between Gadaulia and Dashashwamedh Ghat, on the left. checkout:
Noon. The Hotel Ganges is situated very close to the Vishwanath Temple lane. The
washrooms are clean, and A/C rooms are available. Stay here if you want to stay in the
midst of things in Benaras. Rooms between Rs. 500 to Rs.2000 per night.. edit
common area, washing, TV, PC, wi-fi, a/c, kitchen and purified water. Beds from Rs 400.
edit
Vishnu Rest House, Pandey Ghat, +919936438706. A hotel spanned over 200 year
old Vishnu temple. A very clean and friendly guest house over looking the river, some
rooms with views. You will often find classical music programs and puja held during
morning and evening time. The rooms are with power backup and hot water. edit
Lord Vishnu Rest House, Pandey Ghat, +919450870727. Just behind Vishnu Rest
House. A very clean and friendly guest house over looking the river, some rooms with
views. Close to Vishnu rest house amenities and bigger rooms with peaceful place to stay.
The rooms are with power backup and hot water. edit
Mishra Guest House, Ck 8/178 Garwasi tolla Gaumath Varanasi (Near Manikarnika
Ghat also called Burning Ghat), +91 542 240 1143, [20]. The rooftop restaurant offers
evening concerts every night Free. Rs 150 - 950. edit
Buest Guest House, K 54/84 DARANAGAR, Varanasi 221 001 (near Mritunjai
Mahadev Temple), +91 964 800 0010 (rajapayinglodge@gmail.com). Property is
situated right in the centre of the old town. Yoga courses are available by Yog Guru. Rs
150 - 1500. edit
Ganga Fuji Home, (between Man Mandeer Ghat and Dasaswamedh Ghat). Some rooms
have shared bathroom; more expensive rooms have A/C and TV. All rooms are clean,
with clean sheets and towel. The rooftop restaurant offers evening concerts every night.
Rs 350 - 990. edit
Hotel River View, a couple ghats north of Panchganga Ghat (Walk north from
Dasaswamedh Ghat for about 15 minutes, and follow the numerous blue and white
painted signs that begin to appear). Rs 100 - 250. edit
Maa Vaishno Guest House ( ), B 5/188 (Shivala Ghat), +919389178569 (vermadinesh81@gmail.com). checkin: 24hr; checkout: 12-noon. Family
run guesthouse situated two minutes from the Shivala Ghat. 20 minute by walk to the
Kashi Vishwanath Temple,Sankat Mochan Temple,Durga Temple,Benaras Hindu
Univercity. 10 clean rooms, all with attached bathroom with running hot and cold shower
and view of the Ganga. Roof top restaurant, sunrise & sun set from roof & room, Free
Wi-Fi 24*7, pick up services. laundry service, train, bus and air ticket arrangement and
other travel services available. Rs 200 - 500. edit
Shiva Kashi Guest House, D22/4 Chausatti Ghat (very near Sita G H), +91 923 551
2294, [23]. edit
Bhadrakali Guest House, Ahilyabai ghat brampuri gali d18/11 varanasi, +91 542 245
4104, [24]. Bhadra Kali guest house has great location on Ahilyabai Ghat, by Main Ghat
very close to all the main attractions. The guesthouse is a colourful, family-owned,
music-oriented house with panoramic views of the city and of the River Ganga. A couple
of the rooms in this cozy 7 room Guesthouse also have balconies and River views. edit
Prashnu Guest House, Assi varanasi. This unpretentious and clean hotel features 4 airy
and sunny rooms with minimal street noise and 24-hour fan, bathrooms are impeccably
clean. The owner is a good gentleman who spends most of the day chanting and reading
some sort of hindu religious texts, a hidden gem. Single 250, double 500. edit
Stay safe[edit]
Violent crime is rare, but still do be careful in the lanes after dark. Carry a lamp; power outages
are extremely common, and the alleys are hard enough to navigate in daylight, let alone in pitch
dark, because of their broken paving stones and cows common.
Women especially need to dress conservatively and to be careful. Even taking precautions,
expect to have the odd local young man try to quickly grope you and run away. Respond
aggressively and loudly to try to discourage this behavior as much as possible.
Rickshaw/taxi scams are a norm in Varanasi, and the driver will inevitably tell you that the hotel
that you wish to go to has burned down, is flooded, or closed. Don't believe him. Drivers receive
commission from hotels for bringing in new guests, and this is one way to trick newcomers to
going to these places. Don't get annoyed, but see the exchange as playful banter and part of the
Varanasi experience. However, if the driver continuously refuses to follow your instructions,
threaten to get out of the rickshaw. If after all this you still end up to a different place, just refuse
to pay until you arrive at your hotel. The same procedure will need to be followed when sight
seeing, as drivers will inevitably try to take you to handicraft stores, from which they receive
commission. If calling for a pickup from a more resepctable hostel, be wary that other taxi
drivers may listen in to your phone conversation then tell another taxi driver who will pick you
up pretending to be your hostel, then take you to a commision charging hostel.
As you approach Manikarnika Ghat you will probably be ushered toward a plain concrete
building to view the funeral pyres. The person that leads you there will say that he is a volunteer
at the hospice center and will tell you how he takes care of poor people that don't have enough
money to buy wood for their funerary burning. He'll tell you that wood costs 300 rupees per
kilogram (it's actually closer to 5 rupees per kilogram) and that most foreigners donate between 5
and 10 kilograms of wood to his center, at which point he'll ask for a donation from you. If it isn't
obvious already, this is a scam. Either tell him you have no money or that you don't feel
comfortable donating at the time.
Scam lodges such as Tiwari lodge have been known to offer you a cheap price on arrival but
refuses to accept any payment until you leave, when you do your bill has magically quadrupled
in price and the owner just plain rejects the initial price, it's best to pay day-by-day to prevent
such scams.
Respect[edit]
There is, rather understandably, some resentment at tourists tresspasing up to the cremation ghats
for raucous sightseeing at the funeral ceremonies of loved ones. Behave respectfully and do not
take photographs of cremations, even from the river.
You can take photographs if it is from a distance ; most do not mind. There are touts who for a
fee will "stop minding". Note that if it is the family that objects then you have to respect it but
not if local riff raff object in the interest of extracting money. Offer the money and if they seem
ready to accept ,withdraw it and photograph ! Call the police if necessary.
also as this city is full of temples you will have to take off your shoes/sandals at every point. so
wear a flip flop which is easy to take off.
Contact[edit]
BSNL, Reliance,Idea, and Airtel are the most popular cell phone services in the region. If you
bring your GSM cellphone from home, you can get a cheap connection and cash card from Idea
or Airtel from anywhere in India and call within India and abroad.
Internet is widely available, especially in the lanes between Dasaswamedh Ghat and Assi Ghat.
Price is usually Rs 20-30/hour. Several branches of Iway BROADBAND (rs.15-20)are sprinkled
around town as well.
Calling abroad is cheap from Iway branches.
Now a days, it is not so easy to get a new sim card because of security reasons. Normally the
shopkeeper will ask for identity as well as address proof for the sim card. He will ask for
photograph also which is the standard procedure.
Before giving access to internet, shopkeeper will ask for Identity proof and he will note down
your details. In some cases, he will take a photostate copy of your identity proof and will keep
photostate copy with him. This is as per the instructions of authorities.
Get out[edit]
Ramnagar Fort
Gaya - One of the most sacred places to do Pind Dan (funeral offerings for the benefit of
the soul of the deceased)
Sarnath - One of the most sacred places for Buddhists, known as the place where Lord
Buddha gave his first speech after his enlightenment.
Ramnagar Fort - historical royal residence and museum across the Ganges
Chunar Fort - ruins of battlements and ancient settlement 15 miles from Varanasi.
Agra - the next point on the tourist "Golden Triangle". Buses and trains, including
overnight trains, leave several times a day.
Nepal - buses travel to the Nepali border where you can transfer to Kathmandu and
Chitwan buses. Most buses go via Gorakhpur and can take 8-12 hours, or there are daily
flights. There are a number of travel agents in Varanasi which will sell you tourist/AC
buses to Kathmandu or Pokhara. Avoid these services (especially the operator Paul
Travels) because they are not actually tourist buses. Instead, they are actually the local,
public buses and once you get across the Nepal border, they will try to get more money
from you.
This is a usable article. It has information for getting in
as well as some complete entries for restaurants and
hotels. An adventurous person could use this article, but
please plunge forward and help it grow!
Accommodation in Varanasi
Address:
B14/92,
Phone: 0542 2450418
Manasorovar,
Varanasi
H.O.,
Varanasi
Paramhans Ashram
Address: Bhagwanpur Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India
Jangambari Math
Address: near Ucobank, Madanpura, Varanasi-221001
Varanasi Ashrams
Address: C.4/394 Kali Mahal. Saray Gowardhan- Varanasi. Uttar Pradesh. India
Mumukshu Bhavan
Address: Shop No. 28: Assi ghat, Varanasi: Uttar Pradesh
Kabir Math
Address: 3 km from Varanasi Cantt. railway station, Kabir Chaura, Varanasi
Karpatri Ji Math
-221002
Kinaram Math
Address: New colony Bhelupur, Varanasi
ShriMath
Address: Panchganga Ghat, Varanasi, India
Gopal Math
Dharm Sangha
Shankaracharya Math
Nirajani Akhanra
Kabir Math
Varanasi
Ramapura,Girjaghar
Crossing,
Godaulia
221001
________________________________________________________________
Harasundari Dharamshala
Address: Godawlia, Varanasi
________________________________________________________________
Jaipuria Dharamshala
Seth
anandram
jaipuria
Manager:
Shyam
Phone
Number:
Room
Booking:
Email:
Address: Chowk, Godowlia Road, Varanasi
smriti
bhawan
sundar
0542-2412766,
________________________________________________________________
Tulsi Dharamshala
society
sharma
0542-2412674
0542-2412709
sajbhawan@sify.com
Dudhwala
Address: Bulanala, Varanasi
Sriklum Kunji Lucknowala
Address: Bulanala, Varanasi
________________________________________________________________
Chhotelal Kanoria
Address: Bulanala, Varanasi
________________________________________________________________
Misir
Pokhra,
Luxa
Road,
Varanasi,
________________________________________________________________
Maharastriya
Address: Dashaswamedh Ghat, Varanasi
________________________________________________________________
Kanpur
Address: Kabir Chaura, Varanasi
Varanasi
________________________________________________________________
Nepali
Address: Dalmandi, Varanasi
________________________________________________________________
Sindhe Dharamshala
Address: Godawlia, Varanasi
________________________________________________________________
Parvatiya
Address: Kalbhairav, Varanasi
________________________________________________________________
Annapurna Telwala
Address: Kamakhya road, Varanasi
________________________________________________________________
Anandamoyee Ma Ashram
Address: Vidyapith road, Sigra, near Jain temple, Varanasi
________________________________________________________________
Muslim Musafirkhana
Address: Dalmandi, Varanasi
________________________________________________________________
Jagdamba
Address: Dalmandi, Varanasi
________________________________________________________________
Rewa-Bai
Address: Dalmandi, Varanasi
________________________________________________________________
Chowk,
Godowlia,
Varanasi
Dharm Sangh
Nirajani Akhanra
Shankaracharya Math
Jangambari Math
Kabir Math
Karpatri Ji Math
Kinaram Math
Gopal Math
Programme
Amount Rs.
1-a
Mangala Aarti
251.00
(Normal Days only)
1-b
Mangala Aarti
625.00
(Shravan Monday only)
1-c
Mangala Aarti
315.00
(Shravan days except Monday)
1-d
Mangala Aarti
1251.00
(Maha Shivratri day only)
Rudrabhishek (1 shastri)
190.00
(125+30+35)
2
3
Rudrabhishek (5 shastri)
565.00
(375+30+160)
1125.00
(660+40+425)
2625.00
(1125+125+1375)
26251.00
(9875+1251+15125)
Bhog/Aarti
125.00
Saptarshee
125.00
125.00
10
Free
11
Dainik Bhog
2501.00
12
Monday/Sanyasi Bhog
3751.00
13
6251.00
14
Shringar
2501.00
15
Poornima Shringar
3125.00
16
12625.00
17
65.00
18
125.00
19
1251.00
20
Katha (Story)
65.00
21
Mundan
125.00
22
625.00
23
65.00
24
Lakh Vilvarchana
4001.00
25
Vilvarchana
65.00
13751.00
27
Yati Bhiksha
8751.00
28
Abhishek/Archana
6251.00/11251.00
29
Aarti/Shringar
5001.00
30
Free-Feeding
5001.00
31
Sarwa Pooja
13751.00
32
Nitya Prasadam
2501.00