FAQs

Varanasi FAQs — Your Complete Travel Guide

General FAQs

1. Where is Varanasi located?
Varanasi is in Uttar Pradesh, North India, on the banks of the river Ganga.

2. What is Varanasi famous for?
It is known for its ghats, Ganga Aarti, Kashi Vishwanath Temple, spirituality, silk sarees, culture, and ancient heritage.

3. Is Varanasi safe for tourists?
Yes, it’s safe. Just follow regular travel precautions in crowded areas.

4. How many days are enough to explore Varanasi?
2–3 days for major attractions, 4–5 days for a deeper cultural experience.

5. What language is commonly spoken?
Hindi is widely spoken; English is understood in most tourist areas.

6. What currency is used in Varanasi?
Indian Rupee (INR). Digital payments (UPI) are widely accepted.

7. Do I need a guide in Varanasi?
A guide is highly recommended for temples, ghats, spirituality, heritage walks, and Sarnath.

✈️ Travel & Transport FAQs

8. What is the nearest airport?
Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS).

9. How far is the airport from the city?
20–25 km (35–45 minutes).

10. What stations serve Varanasi?
Varanasi Junction (BSB) and Banaras Station (BSBS).

11. How do I travel locally?
Autos, e-rickshaws, taxis, Ola/Uber, buses, and boats.

12. Are boats available throughout the day?
Yes, from sunrise to late evening.

13. Can I book transport online?
Yes, local autos, cabs, private cars, and boats can be pre-booked.

🏨 Accommodation FAQs

14. Where should I stay in Varanasi?
Ghats for river views, Cantt for comfort, Assi for cafés & culture, Godowlia for temple access.

15. Are hotels near the ghats good?
Yes, but lanes can be narrow; expect walking for the last few meters.

16. Are budget hotels available?
Yes, many affordable stays, hostels, and guesthouses.

17. Do hotels provide airport pickup?
Most mid-range and premium hotels do; budget stays may arrange on request.

18. Can I stay in an ashram?
Yes, many ashrams offer peaceful and spiritual stays.

⛵ Boat Ride FAQs

19. What is the best time for a boat ride?
Sunrise is magical; evening Aarti rides are also popular.

20. Should I book boat rides in advance?
Yes, especially during festivals and peak season.

21. Are life jackets available on boats?
Yes, authorized operators provide them.

22. What is the difference between rowboat and motorboat?
Rowboats are slow and peaceful; motorboats cover longer routes.

23. Can I book a private boat?
Yes, private rowboats and motorboats are available.

🙏 Temple & Spiritual FAQs

24. Is photography allowed inside temples?
Usually no. Always check local rules.

25. When is Kashi Vishwanath Temple most crowded?
Morning hours, Mondays, and festivals like Shivaratri.

26. Is there a VIP darshan in Kashi Vishwanath?
Yes, a paid express entry is available.

27. Are non-Hindus allowed in all temples?
Some temples restrict entry; check before visiting.

28. What should I wear in temples?
Modest and comfortable clothing.

🕌 Sarnath FAQs

29. How far is Sarnath from Varanasi?
Around 10 km.

30. How much time is needed for Sarnath?
2–3 hours for the museum, Stupa, and monasteries.

31. Is Sarnath open every day?
Yes, but the museum is closed on Fridays.

🍲 Food & Shopping FAQs

32. What local foods should I try?
Kachori-sabzi, jalebi, lassi, thandai, chaat, Banarasi paan, tamatar chaat.

33. Is street food safe?
Choose clean, busy stalls with good hygiene.

34. What is Banarasi silk famous for?
Handloom weaving with pure silk and intricate gold zari work.

35. Where can I shop for silk sarees?
Chowk, Godowlia, Madanpura, and weavers' villages.

36. Are prices fixed or negotiable?
Fixed in branded shops; negotiable in local markets.

📸 Ghats & Walks FAQs

37. Are ghats safe at night?
Popular ghats are safe; avoid isolated areas.

38. Which ghat is best for sunrise?
Assi Ghat.

39. Which ghat is best for Ganga Aarti?
Dashashwamedh Ghat (main) and Assi Ghat (cultural).

40. Can I walk along the ghats?
Yes, you can walk from Assi to Rajghat.

41. Is the cremation ghat open for visitors?
You may observe from a distance; photography is not allowed.

📅 Festival FAQs

42. What is the biggest festival in Varanasi?
Dev Deepawali — the festival of lights on the ghats.

43. When is Ganga Mahotsav celebrated?
Around Kartik Purnima (November).

44. Is Varanasi crowded during festivals?
Yes, extremely crowded. Pre-booking is essential.

💰 Cost & Booking FAQs

45. How much does a boat ride cost?
₹300–₹1500 depending on type, timing, and season.

46. Is online booking reliable?
Yes, using verified platforms like GoVaranasi.

47. Are group discounts available?
Yes, for group tours, families, and bulk bookings.

48. Do I have to pay full amount in advance?
Usually partial advance; full payment for premium services.

⚕️ Safety & Health FAQs

49. Is the tap water safe to drink?
No, always use bottled or filtered water.

50. What should I do in an emergency?
Contact your hotel, local police, or call emergency numbers (100/112). Hospitals and clinics are available in the city.