I am planning a holiday and need to know the best season and must see tourist destinations in Varanasi, India.Please share your knowledge.
Varanasi, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and a spiritual hub in India, attracts visitors throughout the year. However, the best time to visit Varanasi depends on personal preferences and the experiences you seek:
Winter Season (October to March):
Weather: This is considered the peak tourist season as the weather is pleasant and cool. Temperatures range from 5°C to 25°C (41°F to 77°F), making it comfortable for sightseeing and exploring the city.
Festivals: Varanasi hosts several festivals during winter, including Dev Deepawali (celebrated on the full moon of Kartik month), which witnesses thousands of earthen lamps lit along the ghats and a mesmerizing sight of Ganga aarti (worship of the Ganges).
Sightseeing: The cool weather makes it ideal for visiting temples, taking boat rides on the Ganges, exploring narrow alleys (galis), and experiencing the city’s cultural vibrancy.
Summer Season (April to June):
Weather: Summers in Varanasi are hot and dry, with temperatures soaring above 40°C (104°F). It can be quite uncomfortable for outdoor activities during the day.
Less Crowded: This season sees fewer tourists due to the extreme heat, making it a quieter time to visit if you prefer solitude.
Early Mornings and Evenings: Despite the heat, mornings and evenings can be relatively cooler and suitable for short outings and riverfront activities.
Monsoon Season (July to September):
Weather: Varanasi experiences heavy rainfall during the monsoon, which starts from late June and lasts till September. The humidity is high, and temperatures range between 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F).
Ganges River: The river Ganges swells during this time, and while boat rides might not be as comfortable due to rain, the landscapes become lush and green.
Spiritual Atmosphere: Monsoon adds a mystical charm to Varanasi with the scent of wet earth, and it is believed that the rain cleanses the city and the river.
Key Considerations:
Crowds: Varanasi is a popular destination year-round, but during festivals and winter months, the city can be bustling with tourists and pilgrims.
Personal Preference: Choose your visit time based on weather preferences and whether you wish to witness specific festivals or events.
In conclusion, while Varanasi is enchanting throughout the year, the winter season (October to March) is generally recommended for the best weather, festival experiences, and comfortable sightseeing.
The optimal time to explore Varanasi is from November to March when the weather is pleasantly cool, with temperatures ranging from 5 to 15 degrees Celsius. This period coincides with several significant festivals celebrated in India, adding to the cultural richness of the experience.
Among the top attractions to visit in Varanasi are:
- Kashi Vishvanath Temple: This revered temple is dedicated to Lord Kashi Vishwanath, considered one of the twelve sacred Jyotirlingas in Hinduism. It holds immense spiritual significance for devotees of Lord Shiva.
- Dasaswamedha Ghat: A prominent religious site, Dasaswamedha Ghat is believed to be the location where Lord Brahma conducted a ritualistic sacrifice involving ten horses, making it steeped in mythological lore.
- Sarnath: Known as the place where Lord Buddha delivered his inaugural teachings on enlightenment, Sarnath holds profound historical and spiritual importance, making it a must-visit destination in Varanasi.
- Bharat Mata Temple: Symbolizing patriotism and reverence for the motherland, the Bharat Mata Temple is dedicated to Mother India and attracts a significant number of tourists due to its unique theme.
For those interested in exploring Varanasi and its cultural treasures, consider booking a Varanasi tour package through https://allindiatourpackages.in/. This platform offers a variety of tour packages tailored to suit different preferences and interests, providing a hassle-free way to discover the enchanting city of Varanasi.