Safety & Health Tips

Safety & Health Tips — Travel Smart, Stay Safe, and Enjoy Varanasi

Varanasi is a warm, welcoming, and culturally rich city, but like any major travel destination, staying aware and following basic safety and health guidelines ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey. With its narrow lanes, bustling ghats, vibrant markets, and dynamic street life, being prepared helps you explore confidently and comfortably.

Start by keeping your belongings secure. Crowded areas such as ghats, markets, and temples can get busy, so keep your phone, wallet, and valuables close. Use crossbody bags or backpacks with zippers to avoid accidental loss. When taking boat rides or exploring riverfront areas, follow instructions from authorized boat operators and always wear a life jacket if provided.

For health and hygiene, it’s best to drink only bottled or filtered water and avoid tap water entirely. Varanasi has fantastic street food, but choose clean, busy stalls with high turnover to ensure freshness. Carry basic medicines for stomach issues, motion sickness, fever, or allergies, as spicy and rich foods may feel strong for first-time visitors. If you plan long walks or heritage tours, wear comfortable shoes and apply sunscreen, especially during winter mornings and summer afternoons.

Respecting local customs and religious practices is also part of safe travel. Many temples and ghats have specific rules regarding photography, footwear, and behavior — observing them ensures a peaceful experience for everyone. While visiting cremation ghats like Manikarnika, maintain distance, avoid intrusive photography, and stay aware of your surroundings.

Varanasi’s climate can vary widely across seasons. In winters, early mornings and nights can be cold, so carry warm layers. In summers, stay hydrated and avoid the midday heat. During monsoon, ghats may be slippery — walk carefully and stay updated on river conditions.

If you’re taking autos, e-rickshaws, or taxis, agree on the fare beforehand or use app-based services to avoid confusion. Always keep emergency contacts, hotel details, and offline maps handy in case mobile networks fluctuate in crowded areas.

By following these simple safety and health tips, you can enjoy Varanasi with confidence — experiencing its spiritual energy, culture, and beauty fully and comfortably.