Best Hotels In Varanasi
Put an end to infinite pools and a five-star façade. Your hotel room in Varanasi opens up to a timeless tapestry of chants from ancient times, hues of saffron, and the everlasting murmur of the Ganges. With carefully chosen accommodations, Cleartrip invites you to immerse yourself in the colourful pandemonium of this sacred city.
Curious? Go deeper and find the holy city to be the refuge of your spirit. Now, explore our carefully chosen selection of hotels in Varanasi!
About Varanasi
Envision a metropolis enveloped in the age-old Ganges embrace, where spirituality twirls in the sunlight that filters through a thousand temple spires, and history murmurs from every corner. This is Varanasi, the city that never ends. It beckons you with a rainbow of experiences that go beyond simple tourism.
Get lost in the maze-like passageways, where the scent of spices permeates the air and silk saris rustling like soft prayers. Watch as pilgrims bathe in the holy waters for blessings and release as dawn breaks over the Ganges, painting the ghats in a musical score of gold and saffron. With its rich cultural and historical fabric, Varanasi is a tapestry.
Discover the wonderful Kashi Vishwanath Temple, with its dazzling golden dome that gleams like a starry lighthouse. Explore Banaras Hindu University's ancient wisdom—a revered centre of study for ages.
City Attraction & Nearby Attractions
Here are a few renowned landmarks and centres of attractions in Varanasi:
- Ghat Assi: Without a doubt, this is among the greatest family-friendly destinations in Varanasi. In the far south, at Assi Ghat, pilgrims worship Lord Shiva by offering prayers to a massive lingam under a peepal tree. This Ghat is a vibrant place that perfectly conveys Kashi's age, pulsating with turmoil and mayhem.
- Manikarnika Ghat: Manikarnika Ghat is one of the primary spots to explore in Varanasi. Hindus consider it a promising spot for cremation for ages. Manikarnika Ghat is breathtaking when the sun sets, the pyres shine, and flower bowls are lit by candles floating down the Ganga river.
- Dashashwamedh Ghat: This specific Ghat is special because it's considered the oldest in the city. You have likely witnessed this Ghat if you have seen videos of people worshipping on riverbanks, bathing in the Ganga, and holding diyas in their hands. It is frequently bustling since so many people swarm there to pray and have their sins washed away.
- Rana Mahal Ghat: Add this location to your itinerary for an amazing Varanasi tourist experience. Constructed during Raja Rana Jagat Singh's pilgrimage to the city, this Ghat consistently draws many visitors. It is located directly adjacent to a palace that has served as the Maharaja's home while on pilgrimage.
Places To Visit in varanasi
- Ganga Aarti: An important ceremony known as Ganga Aarti is performed on a large scale daily and night on the banks of the sacred Ganges. The priests perform the Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat. A holy light that permeates the entire Ghat becomes palpably apparent. Huge oil-lit brass lamps are used in the majestic ritual, and the priests recite the hallowed mantras that fill the entire space with resonance.
- Ganga Mahotsav: Annual celebrations of the Ganga Mahotsav are held to showcase the rich cultural legacy of the Gangetic plains, particularly that of the ancient city of Kashi. The Mahotsav Samiti of the Uttar Pradesh government's Department of Tourism organise this event and manages it for five days every year.
- Ramnagar Ramlila: A traditionally performed collection of plays called Ramlila tells the story of Lord Ram's travels as written in the Ramayana. Under the Benaras Royal House's sponsorship, the 200-year-old Ramlila flourished. Approximately 10,000 individuals participate in the large-scale celebrations that are organised. In Ramnagar, the performance lasts longer than a month, although it often lasts ten days.
Best Time To Visit Varanasi
The historic centre of India, Varanasi, beats to a beat all its own. But timing is crucial if you want to experience its eternal essence fully. Saddle up for a delightful embrace of winter, which spans from October to February and features the Ganges shimmering under clear skies, with chilly breezes dancing down lanes the colour of saffron.
Take in the vivid dawn rites and evening aarti rituals illuminated by fire, their smoke blending with the aroma of jasmine and incense. Discover winding alleyways and tranquil temples illuminated by golden light while pilgrims' chants fill the air. Enjoy the ageless harmony of Varanasi's rhythm, which is best appreciated in the brisk grip of winter.
Things To Do In The City
- Experience Cultural Immersion: Attend a classical dance or music performance, see the colourful Holi festivals, or pick up saree draping skills from regional craftspeople.
- Cruise Into The Sunset: Take a romantic evening Ganges boat ride as the sun sets and the sky turns pink and orange.
- Absorb The Sacred Ganges: Immerse yourself in the Ganges' sacred waters, which are said to absolve sins and provide blessings. Alternatively, take a calm boat trip at daybreak to witness the city come to life.
- Visit Varanasi Fun City: With its striking swings, generous roller coaster, and other attractions, the park is a hive of activity and excitement, especially on weekends.
- Shop Souvenirs: Look for one-of-a-kind keepsakes to commemorate your memories of Varanasi. Choose from handcrafted brass items, wooden relics, and Banarasi silk sarees.
- Watch the Dawn Aarti: Tonnes of people assemble at the ghats to pray to the river goddess as the first rays of sunlight touch the Ganges. Priests singing and candles flashing create a captivating spectacle that stirs the soul.
