Varanasi, located in the North Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, also known as Kashi or Banaras - is one of the oldest living cities in the world. It is a place where spirituality meets tradition. Situated on the banks of the sacred Ganges river, this ancient city is considered the spiritual capital of India. Every corner of Varanasi is steeped in history, devotion and vibrant traditions.Whether you seek inner peace, cultural immersion or spiritual awakening, Varanasi promises a transformative experience.

Explore Akbar Travels Exclusive Travel Package

Our expertly curated Varanasi tour packages offer the perfect blend of spiritual discovery, rich culture, and timeless heritage. Glide along the sacred Ganges River at sunrise, witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti, and explore centuries-old temples and bustling ghats. Whether you're a couple seeking a soulful escape, a family eager to explore India’s cultural roots, or a solo traveler on a path of self-discovery, our thoughtfully designed itineraries cater to every kind of explorer. Connect with our travel specialists to craft your unforgettable Varanasi journey.

What can one do in Varanasi?

Varanasi is more than a destination, it’s an experience that unfolds slowly as you immerse yourself in its rituals and rhythms. Here are some must - do activities that will enrich your Varanasi holidays:

Witness the Ganga aarti ceremony

Every evening at dusk, the ghats of Varanasi come alive with the mesmerizing Ganga aarti - a devotional ritual where priests perform synchronized prayers with fire lamps, chants and incense. Dashashwamedh Ghat is the most famous spot to witness this spectacle, offering a spiritual ambience that touches every visitor’s heart.

Take a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges

Start your day early with a tranquil boat ride along the Ganges. As the sun rises you will see the pilgrims taking holy dips, sadhus meditating and temples glowing in the golden light. This serene experience offers a unique perspective on the city's spiritual life and daily routines.

Explore the Old City and its Alleys

Varanasi’s narrow winding lanes are filled with temples, local markets, street food stalls and artisans crafting Banarasi silk and brassware. Wander through these vibrant streets to soak in authentic local culture.

Attend Yoga and meditation sessions

Many centers and ashrams along the ghats offer yoga classes and meditation retreats. Participating in these sessions can deepen your spiritual experience in this ancient city.

Enjoy local cuisine

Don’t miss out on tasting the delicious street food of Varanasi - kachori sabzi, tamatar chaat and the famous Banarasi paan are culinary delights that add flavor to your holiday.

Best places to visit in Varanasi

Your Varanasi travel package should definitely include visits to these iconic landmarks and temples:

Kashi Vishwanath Temple

One of the 12 Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva, Kashi Vishwanath Temple is the spiritual heart of Varanasi. The temple’s golden spire and vibrant atmosphere make it a must - visit pilgrimage site.

Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple

Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, this temple is known for it’s power to relieve devotees from troubles and challenges. It also hosts the popular annual Sankat Mochan Sangeet Samaroh, a music festival attracting classical artists from across the country.

Durga Temple
This temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga and is famous for the monkeys that roam freely in its premises, adding a unique charm to visit.

Bharat Mata Temple

Unlike other temples, Bharat Mata Temple is dedicated to the motherland and houses a large marble relief map of India. It’s a symbol of patriotism and unity.

Manikarnika and Harishchandra Ghats

These ghats are sacred cremation sites where locals perform last rites, symbolizing the cycle of life, death and rebirth. Observing rituals here provides profound insight into Hindu beliefs about mortality.

Sarnath

Just 10 km from Varanasi, Sarnath is a significant Buddhist site where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. The archaeological museum and ancient stupas make it an essential part of any itinerary.

Best Time to Visit Varanasi

The best time to visit Varanasi is during the cooler months from October to March. During this period, the weather is pleasant, allowing comfortable exploration of the city’s many temples, ghats, and markets.

This season is also packed with vibrant festivals such as:

• Diwali: The festival of lights illuminates the city with spectacular displays.
• Dev Deepawali: Celebrated 15 days after Diwali, this event lights up the ghats with thousands of oil lamps.
• Makar Sankranti: Marking the end of winter, locals celebrate with kite flying and traditional fairs.

Avoid the peak summer months (April to June), when temperatures soar, and the monsoon (July to September)

How to Reach Varanasi from India

Varanasi is well-connected by air, rail, and road, making it accessible for travelers from across India:

By Air:

The Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, approximately 26 km from the city center, receives flights from major Indian cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai. You can easily book cheap flights to Varanasi through Akbar Travels.

By Train:

Varanasi Junction is a major railway hub, connecting the city to Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and other important cities via numerous daily trains. Train travel is a comfortable and economical way to reach Varanasi.

By Road:

For those who prefer road trips, Varanasi is accessible by national highways. Several private and government buses operate routes from nearby cities like Lucknow, Patna, and Allahabad. Taxi services and car rentals are also popular options.

With Akbar Travels, you get assistance in planning your transport, lodging, and sightseeing, ensuring you enjoy a smooth and stress-free journey.

Why Choose Akbar Travels for Your Varanasi Travel Packages?

Choosing Akbar Travels means opting for reliability, affordability, and a personalized experience. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Tailored Packages: Whether you want a spiritual retreat, cultural tour, or family vacation, we have our Varanasi tour packages to suit your preferences.
   
• Best Hotels in Varanasi: We collaborate with reputed hotels that offer comfort and authentic experiences, from budget lodgings to luxurious stays.
   
• Competitive Pricing: We provide some of the cheap flights to Varanasi and best deals on combined travel and stay packages.
   
• Expert Guidance: Our team understands the cultural and spiritual nuances of Varanasi and provides local insights and support throughout your trip.
   
• Online Visa Services: For international visitors, Akbar Travels offers online visa services for 180+ countries, making your travel planning even easier.
   
• 24/7 Customer Support: Our dedicated support team ensures you’re assisted before, during, and after your trip.

Varanasi is more than just a city; it’s a journey into the soul of India’s spiritual heritage. Choosing Akbar Travels for your Varanasi travel package ensures a seamless and enriching experience in one of India’s most spiritual and culturally vibrant cities. With decades of expertise in curating customized travel plans, Akbar travels offers carefully crafted itineraries that cover everything from guided tours of the sacred ghats and temples to comfortable accommodations and local experiences. Whether you’re a pilgrim, travel enthusiast or a curious traveller, Akbar Travels provides a trusted, value - for - money journey to tailor your needs.

Start planning your unforgettable Varanasi holidays today — and let Akbar Travels be your trusted guide.