Situated on the banks of the sacred Ganges River in North India, Varanasi’s timeless charm that is frozen in time captures the spirit of every traveller from all over the world. According to Hindu beliefs, Varanasi is the city where Lord Shiva resides. Steeped in spirituality and history Kashi is all about offering a soul-stirring experience. The city’s ancient temples, bustling markets, mesmerizing Ghats, and evening vibes leaves a lasting impression in the hearts of everyone.
Varanasi is not just a city, it’s the cultural soul of India. It is one of the most famous pilgrimage sites for Hindus who seek purification through sacred rituals in the Ganges. If you are a traveller who is looking for cultural nourishment and spiritual getaways then Varanasi will blow your heart away.
Exploring the city, its Ghats, and temples would be wholesome if you know the best time to visit Varanasi. Here this blog will give you the complete information to visit Varanasi.
Best Season to Visit Varanasi
Choosing the best time to visit Varanasi depends on personal preferences, however, the winter months from October to March are the most popular and comfortable for a culturally rich experience. The low temperature and the cool crisp air add a refreshing touch to the atmosphere.
The monsoon season brings relief to the city’s temperature with soothing rain showers cooling down the temperature. For those seeking a more serene and contemplative experience, Monsoon is the best time to visit Varanasi.
Summers in Varanasi experience high and dry temperatures. So, it is best to avoid summers in Varanasi for sightseeing.
Peak Season – October to March
The winter months from October to March constitute the peak season to enjoy Varanasi tourism. The weather remains cool and pleasant for exploring serene Ghats, and old alleys, cruising on the Ganges, and shopping.
Off Season – April to June
Summer months April to June in Varanasi are the hottest months which makes Varanasi sightseeing unbearable for tourists who find heat challenging. If you are trying any outdoor activity in Varanasi during the summer month then it would be extremely difficult for you to enjoy because of unbearable hot temperatures.
Shoulder Season – (July to September)
The monsoon season from July to September in Varanasi is considered shoulder season. Heavy rains cool down the temperatures which may disrupt your plans for outdoor activities but rains make Varanasi’s weather serene. The streets, Ghats, and temples receive a refreshing drench, casting a magical lush green hue over the atmosphere.
| Season | Avg Temperature | Ideal for |
| Summer (April to June) | 32 to 46 Degrees C | Evening Tours |
| Winter (Oct to March) | 5 to 15 Degrees C | Best Time to Visit |
| Monsoon (July to September) | 24 to 32 Degrees C | Solo trip, nature Vacation |
Now let’s see the treasures of each season in Varanasi
Varanasi in summer (April to June)
Summer in Varanasi lasts from April till the end of June. The temperatures in summer range from 32 to 46 degrees Celsius. It is the best time to avoid the Varanasi Tour as the scorching heat and dry weather become unbearable for sightseeing. It is advisable to take light clothing and take shade during peak heat hours if you have still decided to travel in summer.
Despite this rough weather, nothing diminished the city’s spiritual energy. Locals continue their daily routines and the evening Ganga Aarti ceremonies. Evening in the summer is still bearable for sightseeing.
Travel Tips:
- It is crucial to stay hydrated in Varanasi during summer. Drink plenty of Fluids.
- Always opt for lightweight breathable fabrics to stay cool
- Wear Sunglasses and hats to shield yourself from intense heat
- Plan indoor activities such as museum visits, temples visit, etc. to escape the heat.
Varanasi in Monsoon (July to September)
Monsoon in Varanasi (July to September) overwhelms the spirit with soothing rain showers. The temperature ranges from 24 to 32 degrees Celsius. The temperature brings a dramatic shift to the city’s atmosphere. The relentless heat of the summer vanishes and the frequent rains rejuvenate the landscape along with the river Ganges.
Monsoon brings unique considerations for travelers who seek solace and serenity. Photographers often enjoy the sights and landscapes of Varanasi during Monsoon. If you want to get away from crowds then Indeed, Monsoon is the best time for Varanasi sightseeing.
Travel Tips:
- Pack a reliable raincoat and waterproof jacket. Umbrellas can also be handy for frequent showers.
- Sturdy and water-resistant footwear is essential to navigate waterlogged areas.
- Explore indoor attractions such as cultural centers, museums, and temples.
- Stay informed about the weather conditions before planning a Varanasi trip in the Monsoon as it experiences occasional flooding during heavy rains.
Winters in Varanasi (October to March)
The winter months of Varanasi October to March bring delightful charm to the ambiance of Varanasi. The temperature ranges from 5 to 15 degrees Celsius. It is the best time to plan your Varanasi Holidays. Travelers find winter comfortable for exploring and outdoor activities.
The mild temperatures, cool breeze, and clear skies make wintertime awesome in Varanasi. It is also the time to enjoy many festivals as it is deeply rooted in cultural and religious traditions.
Travel Tips:
- The temperature may vary throughout the day. So, it is important to pack layers.
- Choose accommodations that include adequate heating facilities for a cozy and comfortable stay.
- Check on the local festivals and events that happen during winter months.
Varanasi’s Popular Winter Festivals
Dev Deepawali – Celebrated on the full moon day of Kartik month
Ganga Mahotsav – Showcase classical music and dance of popular artists from across the world.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Best Time to Visit in Varanasi
Q1. What is so special about Varanasi?
Ans. Varanasi is one of the most popular Hindu pilgrimage spots. Devotees from all over the world come to Varanasi to dive deep into the spiritual and cultural attractions and fine-tune their spirits. There are numerous temples in Varanasi and the Ganga Aarti of Varanasi is a wonderful visual and soul rejuvenating spectacle that one must not miss if they are planning to visit Varanasi.
Q2. What are some popular places to Visit in Varanasi?
Ans. Some of the most popular tourist attractions in Varanasi are:-
- Ramnagar Fort
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple
- Manikarnika Ghat
- Dashashwamedh Ghats
- Assi Ghat
- Annapurna Temple
- Tulsi Manas Mandir
Q3. What are the most popular cuisines to try while enjoying a sightseeing tour in Varanasi?
Ans. Some of the most amazing cuisines and street foods to try while enjoying the sights of Varanasi are:-
- Lassi
- Litti Chokha
- Banarasi Paan
- Chaat
- Kachori
Q4. What are the most popular markets for shopping in Varanasi?
Ans. Varanasi’s streets offer amazing corners to get awesome souvenirs and delightful clothes, carpets, and Banarasi items. Some of the most popular markets in Varanasi are:-
- Thatheri Bazar
- Godowlia Lane
- Vishwanath Lane
- Gol Ghar
- Rajan Silk Market
- Dal Mandi Market
- Gyanvapi
- Lahurabir
- Chowk and Urban Hatt
- Banaras Art Gallery
Q5. How to reach Varanasi?
By Air- Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport which is 25 km northwest of the city operates regular flights to Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Bangalore etc. You will conveniently get taxis and auto services from the airport to the city.
By Road- You will get plenty of buses in Varanasi at the east of Varanasi Junction Railway station. Buses run regularly from Lucknow, Gorakhpur, Kanpur, Faizabad, and Bodhgaya etc.
By Train- Varanasi has a wide railway network. There are three main railway stations such as Varanasi Junction, Manduadih Railway, and Mughal Sarai Railway Station which operate daily trains from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Lucknow, and Agra.
