Dev Deepawali: Varanasi
Varanasi’s Kartik Purnima festival of lamps.
Nov 24, 2026
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Explore Varanasi
Varanasi
Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Banaras, is one of India’s oldest living cities and a major centre of Hindu pilgrimage. Religious rituals, cremation ceremonies, music, silk weaving and life along the Ganga shape its identity. The historic centre has crowded lanes and busy ghats, so exploring it is often easier on foot and requires sensitivity towards ongoing religious practices.
Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Banaras, is one of India’s oldest living cities and a major centre of Hindu pilgrimage. Religious rituals, cremation ceremonies, music, silk weaving and life along the Ganga shape its identity. The historic centre has crowded lanes and busy ghats, so exploring it is often easier on foot and requires sensitivity towards ongoing religious practices.
Top Places to Visit in Varanasi
Popular attractions and places to visit in Varanasi
Annapurna Devi Temple
Important temple dedicated to Goddess Annapurna, traditionally visited along with Kashi Vishwanath.
Assi Ghat
Vibrant ghat known for morning aarti and yoga sessions.
Banaras Hindu University
Famous university campus with peaceful vibes and spiritual sites.
Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum
A renowned museum at BHU Varanasi housing an extensive collection of textiles, miniature paintings, and ancient artifacts.
Bharat Mata Temple
A unique temple in Varanasi dedicated to Mother India, housing a detailed marble relief map of undivided India, inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi in 1936.
Bulanala & Madanpura
A traditional textile and weaving hub in Varanasi known for its authentic Banarasi silk sarees and fabric trade.
Upcoming Events in Varanasi
Festivals, cultural events, and celebrations
Best Time to Visit Varanasi
Plan your trip around the right season
Nov-FebBest Window
Why visit
Cool, dry weather makes long ghat walks and early morning boat rides very comfortable. Dev Deepawali in November turns the entire riverfront into something you will not forget.
Keep in mind
Peak pilgrim season - Ganga aarti spots fill up fast and hotels near Dashashwamedh Ghat need advance booking.
Mar-Jun
Why visit
Holi in Mathura-Varanasi belt is worth it if you plan early. Fewer foreign tourists.
Keep in mind
Afternoons get very hot by April. Open ghats have no shade - keep outdoor time to before 10am.
Jul-Oct
Why visit
Monsoon river mood is dramatic. Shravan month brings a festive buzz to the ghats.
Keep in mind
Humidity is high and narrow lanes get waterlogged. Moving between temples takes longer.
How to Reach Varanasi
Intercity connectivity and travel options
Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport and major rail stations (Varanasi Jn, Banaras) connect the city widely.
Getting Around Varanasi
Local transport and practical tips
Local transport
Autos, e-rickshaws, app cabs, and walking in ghat corridors are most common.
Best Areas to Stay in Varanasi
Pick the right neighbourhood for your trip
Dashashwamedh / Godowlia side
First-time ghat experienceBest access to Ganga aarti zone and core old-city landmarks.
Assi Ghat
Longer, calmer staysPopular with slow travelers for cafes, river walks, and easier pacing.
Cantonment area
Families + transit comfortWider roads, modern hotels, and smoother rail/road connectivity.
Must-Try Dishes in Varanasi
Local food specialties and traditional favourites
Kachori Sabzi
Early-morning Banarasi favorite with spicy potato curry.
Malaiyo
Seasonal saffron-infused milk froth dessert of winter mornings.
Tamatar Chaat
Varanasi-style tangy tomato-based chaat served hot.
Baati Chokha
Smoky wheat baati with mashed spiced vegetables.
Articles and stories
Articles and stories from Varanasi
