Varanasi may seem like a small city, tucked neatly on the left bank of the Ganges in southeastern Uttar Pradesh but the ‘spiritual capital of India’ is jam-packed with attractions to see, experiences to cherish and traditional dishes to chow down on. The walkable ghats make navigating the popular landmarks a breeze, giving you more time to soak in the history of the world’s oldest continually inhabited cities. And while a Varanasi trip grants visitors an important opportunity to understand the history — especially the 16th-century cultural renaissance under Mughal emperor Akbar — today’s visitors can also embrace the city’s thriving modern art and culinary scene, all set against its timeless charm. With so much on offer in one itinerary, here’s how to make the most of 48 hours in Varanasi, one of the most multicultural destinations in Uttar Pradesh.
The best time to visit Varanasi
October through February is the best time for Varanasi’s spiritually-inclined explorations. Whether you’re visiting to observe the emblematic Ganga aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat or you want to explore the old town with a sidequest to shop around and get your hands on a Banarasi saree, the winter months (Varanasi’s peak season) are the perfect time for both.
Planning a 48-hour trip to Varanasi? Here’s our detailed Varanasi city guide for everything from the best places to visit and restaurants to try and make the most of your time.
48 hours in Varanasi: Itinerary day 1
In the morning, hop on a rickshaw just before the crack of dawn and ride to Assi Ghat, one of the most beautiful places in Varanasi‘s southern part. This is also where the rivers Ganga and Assi intersect, making this ghat particularly important. You’ll be enthralled by the early morning Ganga Aarti, shloka chanting and sunrise yoga sessions.
Then, wind your way through the area to reach the Shiva lingam (phallic image of Shiva) placed under a peepal tree, a popular relic among pilgrims. Expect to be greeted by small fire ceremonies around the corner and dozens of hawkers selling spiritual memorabilia.
Dart past the shops and head out for the Subah-e-Banaras, a 45-minute-long Ganga Aarti where you can worship both the Sun God and the holy river Ganga. Feeling hungry? Head down a mile to Brown Bread Bakery for a European-style breakfast with organic and vegan menu options.
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In the afternoon, a short stroll along the river will get you to Shivala Ghat, followed by Shankaracharya Ghat where you can step on a 15-minute boat ride to take photographs of the temple-lined ghats and portraits of some local divers. Further north, you can slowly cover all the ghats on a walking tour or continue your journey down Narad Ghat. Another much-recommended detour from Shivala Ghat is to take a detour to Banaras Hindu University (BHU), which is abuzz with independent cafes, shops, and a flurry of over 30,000 students. Admire the Indo-Gothic architecture of Asia’s largest residential university and explore the Bharat Kala Bhavan museum and the new Vishwanath Temple (Birla Temple).
In the evening, just before sundown around 5 pm, follow the hordes of devotees and pilgrims towards the historic Dasaswamedh Ghat. Hundreds of thousands take a trip to Varanasi every year to take an evening boat ride to observe the elaborate evening Ganga Aarti, followed by a fire-dance ritual and prayers. End the day with a visit to Kashi Chat Bhandar for a taste of their best-selling ‘tamatar chaat.’
Varanasi trip: Itinerary day 2
Start day 2 of your Varanasi trip by indulging in some deliciously soft idlis, masala dosa and filter coffee at Kerala Cafe near Bhelupur Road. From there, you can hop on a rickshaw bound for the Vishwanath Gali to visit the world-renowned Kashi Vishwanath Temple. An essential experience, the sacred and peaceful temple is also one of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines. Spiritual or not, the ornate carvings and black-stone lingams are worth marvelling at. According to Hindu mythology, paying a visit here, combined with a dip in the holy river, are key steps to achieving liberation or moksha.
Adjacent to the museum lies the Man Singh Observatory, promising panoramic views of the west bank of the Ganges River. Visitors are encouraged to learn about the last construction that marked the end of the ‘Astronomical Stone Age’ and the tales of its construction by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh in 1710.
After that, it’s a short rickshaw ride to Pehalwan Lassi near Ravidas Gate, a tiny shop that serves the city’s most macho yoghurt drink in a kulhad (handless clay mug). A Varanasi trip is incomplete without trying out the famed Banarasi paan at Keshav Bhandar. As daylight starts giving way to dusk, head to the Baati Chokha Restaurant for a hearty and traditional lunch. From an elaborate serving of Dal Bati to an à la carte menu offering thalis and appetizers, do not ask for the bill before devouring more than one bowl of kheer.
Stretch your legs and work off lunch by taking a walk through Gaudoliya Street Market located at a distance of Varanasi Cantt Railway Station. Housing some of the oldest shops in the city, you can get your hands on Banarasi sarees, and handwoven carpets to take back home. Some other popular markets you can explore are Vishwanath Galli, Rajan Silk Market, Thatheri Bazar and Golghar.
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Rounding off your trip to Varanasi in the evening, unwind with a couple of tipples at the Princep Bar of Taj Ganges, just a 4-kilometre rickshaw ride from Vishalakshi Temple. Here, the colonial bar and lounge reflect the heritage and charm of the city with drinks and appetizers to match. If you’re feeling hungry, head across the river to Wife On Leave, an unpretentious and no-fuss restaurant serving comforting, continental food near Fatman Road. After a cosy meal, conclude your 48-hour Varanasi itinerary by taking a taxi to Dhamekh Stupa to watch the sunset behind a 43m-tall Buddhist shrine dating back to 500 CE.
Varanasi itinerary: Best hotels for your trip
From charming homestays to luxury rentals, there’s a smattering of hotels in Varanasi to pick from. Check-in at the Taj Ganges to experience a stay that preserves Varanasi’s historic charm while offering a modern stay or cherish the grandeur of Taj Nadesar Palace, best known for its palatial carriage tours, Abhisheka spa treatments and a mini-golf course. Another popular choice is Ramada’s only outpost in the holy city, Ramada Plaza by Wyndham JHV, located in the Varanasi cantonment, just 5.5 kilometres from the Ganges.
Book your stay at Taj Ganges Varanasi via Booking.com
Book your stay at Taj Ganges Varanasi via Agoda.com
Varanasi trip: How to reach the sacred city
By air: Varanasi Airport (Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport) is located less than 20 kilometres from the city centre
By rail: Varanasi railway junction and Kashi railway station are located 2.2 kilometres and 7.3 kilometres from the city centre, respectively.
By road: If you are travelling inter-state or from nearby cities like Allahabad, Patna, Ranchi, Lucknow and Gorakhpur, private and government buses are the most convenient. The National Highway 19 is the main connecting road – drive or hail a cab to reach Varanasi.
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(Feature image credit: Narvikk, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons)
Related | These Hotels In Agra Offer The Best Views Of The Taj Mahal
The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.
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FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
The best way to get around Varanasi is by walking, auto-rickshaws, and cycle-rickshaws.
To cover the top attractions in 48 hours, the best way is to start with a walking tour of the ghats, combining boat rides and temple visits. Also, it is recommended to reserve the food and shopping checklist for the second, more relaxing day. Start early each day to maximize your time.
The most recommended boating experience is the evening Ganga Aarti boat experience at Dashashwamedh Ghat.
For a short visit, consider staying near ghats like Assi Ghat, Dashashwamedh Ghat, and the old city. Boutique guesthouses by the river are also a great option.
Stay alert in crowded areas to avoid pickpockets, drink bottled water, and ensure you have a guide or reliable local help when navigating unfamiliar areas.
Given Varanasi is a primarily spiritual destination, it is recommended that you wear modest (avoid sleeveless tops and shorts) and comfortable clothing paired with comfortable shoes suitable for hot or humid weather.
Varanasi’s nightlife is spiritual rather than traditional entertainment with the evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat topping the popularity chart. For some casual, laid-back fun, head to the rooftop cafes by the Ganges which offer great food and a relaxing atmosphere.
Written By
Sneha Chakraborty
Sneha Chakraborty is a journalist and photographer covering how travel intersects with food, culture, ..Read More
