Uttar Pradesh, India
Witnessing life and death cycles, faith, and devotion here can reshape perspectives on existence and spirituality.
Gain a understanding of Hindu traditions, the Ganges' significance, and the concept of moksha.
The city's intensity and spiritual depth inspire introspection, reflection, and a renewed perspective.
Dress modestly, notably at religious sites and in public spaces.
Observe religious ceremonies from a distance. Never photograph sacred practices, especially at cremation ghats.
Interact with locals with an open mind and heart, seeking to learn from their perspectives and traditions.
After Varanasi, explore other facets of India or related cultural experiences.
Varanasi links well by train and domestic flights.
Combine Varanasi with Agra (for the Taj Mahal) and Delhi.
Direct flights from Varanasi to Kathmandu for a Himalayan experience.
If you visited outside this festival, plan a return trip in early November to witness the spectacular ghat lighting.
Return for a longer stay focused on yoga and meditation, perhaps at an ashram, for a more profound personal journey.
Engage with local life and culture on a level during a subsequent visit.
Consider Skillshare for online photography courses inspired by your trip.
Use Babbel for Hindi phrases to deepen interactions.
Utilize NordVPN for secure internet access while traveling.
Varanasi provides a journey not just through a city, but through time and spirit, fostering unexpected moments of magic.
Digital and print resources for seamless trip organization.
Google Maps is essential for directions and discovering attractions. Download offline maps for use without internet.
Ola or Uber provide transparency and safety for auto-rickshaw and car rides.
Google Translate is a helpful tool. Download Hindi for offline use.
Keep these documents ready and accessible.
Keep photocopies or digital copies of all important documents (passport, visa, flight tickets, insurance) in a separate location from the originals.
This measure aids replacement procedures if needed.
Share copies with a trusted contact back home for added security.
Manage your finances wisely while traveling.
Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates to help avoid card freezes.
Order some local currency (INR) or a multi-currency travel card before departure.
Familiarize yourself with your surroundings for better navigation.
Locate exits, reception, and any nearby facilities like shops or eateries.
Identify convenient spots for cash withdrawals (ATMs) and any immediate health needs (pharmacies).
If you did not get one at a larger arrival airport, purchase a local SIM card (Airtel, Jio, Vi) at an official store in the city center.
Use pre-arranged transport (hotel pick-up), a pre-paid taxi, or a reputable app-based service like Ola or Uber.
The most captivating parts of Varanasi, especially the ghats and the old city's narrow lanes, are best explored on foot.
Pre-arranged transport avoids potential hassles with local touts and provides a secure journey.
For quick and transparent auto-rickshaw or taxi rides, use Ola or Uber. This avoids the need for price negotiations and provides fair fares and tracking.
