Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Banaras, is one of the oldest and most sacred cities in India. It is a place where millions of pilgrims, tourists, and seekers come to witness the vibrant culture, spirituality, and history of this ancient city. Varanasi is also a place where you can experience the essence of India without spending a fortune. Here are some tips on how to plan a Varanasi budget trip and make the most of your visit.

Visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple

One of the main attractions of Varanasi is the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, the patron deity of the city. The temple is located on the banks of the Ganges River and is considered one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, or the most sacred shrines of Shiva. The temple is open from 3 am to 11 pm, and entry is free for all.

However, you may have to wait in long lines to get a glimpse of the idol, especially during festivals and auspicious days. To avoid the crowd, you can book a VIP darshan ticket online for Rs. 300 per person, which will allow you to enter the temple through a separate gate and have a faster darshan. Alternatively, you can also visit the temple early in the morning or late at night, when the crowd is less.

Stay at the Tent City Varanasi

If you are looking for a unique and affordable accommodation option in Varanasi, you can try staying at the Tent City Varanasi, a luxury camping site located near the Assi Ghat and Kashi Vishwanath temple. The Tent City Varanasi offers spacious and comfortable tents with attached bathrooms, air-conditioning, and Wi-Fi. You can also enjoy the facilities of the campsite, such as a restaurant, a lounge, a library, and a yoga centre.

The best part is that you can witness the stunning views of the Ganges River and the ghats from your tent. The Tent City Varanasi charges Rs. 2500 per night for a double-occupancy tent, which includes breakfast and taxes. You can book your tent online through their website or other travel portals.

Explore the Ghats and the Old City

One of the best ways to experience the essence of the Varanasi trip is to explore the ghats and the old city on foot. The ghats are the steps that lead to the river, and each ghat has its own significance and story. You can walk along the ghats and observe the various activities that take place there, such as bathing, praying, performing rituals, and cremating the dead.

You can also take a boat ride on the river and see the ghats from a different perspective. The boat ride costs around Rs. 200 to 300 per person for an hour, depending on the season and the time of the day. You can also explore the old city, which is a maze of narrow lanes, temples, shops, and houses. You can find many hidden gems and surprises in the old city, such as the Kachori Gali, where you can taste the famous kachoris and jalebis; the Blue Lassi Shop, where you can sip the delicious lassi in a variety of flavours; and the Manikarnika Ghat, where you can witness the eternal fire that burns the pyres of the dead.

Enjoy the Cultural Events and Festivals

Varanasi is a city that celebrates life and death with equal fervour. You can find many cultural events and festivals happening throughout the year in the Varanasi budget trip, which showcases the rich and diverse heritage of the city. Some of the most popular events and festivals are the Ganga Aarti, which is a daily evening ceremony that honours the river with lamps, flowers, and chants.

The Dev Deepawali, which is a festival of lights that illuminates the ghats, Kashi Vishwanath temple, and the river with thousands of ideas; and the Sankat Mochan Music Festival, which is a four-day musical extravaganza that features the performances of renowned classical musicians and dancers. You can also enjoy the street food, handicrafts, and local music of Varanasi during these events and festivals.

Varanasi is a city that can enchant you with its charm, mystique, and beauty, as well as the Kashi Vishwanath temple. It is a city that can offer you a memorable and meaningful experience, even if you are on a tight budget. All you need is an open mind, a curious heart, and a sense of adventure. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore Varanasi on a budget. You will not regret it. 

 

FAQs

Q: How can I book a VIP darshan ticket for the Kashi Vishwanath Temple?

You can book a VIP darshan ticket online through the official website of the temple or through other portals such as Yatra, Goibibo, or MakeMyTrip. You will need to provide your name, email, phone number, and ID proof. You will also need to select a date and time slot for your visit. The ticket will be sent to your email or phone, which you will need to show at the entrance of the temple.

Q: What are the best times to visit Varanasi?

A: The best times to visit Varanasi are from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and the city is full of festivals and events. You can also visit Varanasi during the monsoon season, from July to September, when the river is full and the city is less crowded. However, you may have to deal with some rain and humidity. You should avoid visiting Varanasi during the summer season, from April to June, when the temperature can reach up to 45°C and the city is very hot and dusty.

Q: How can I reach Varanasi from Patna?

A: There are several ways to reach Varanasi from Patna. You can take a train, a bus, a taxi, or a flight. The train journey takes around 5 to 6 hours, and the fare ranges from Rs. 100 to Rs. 1000, depending on the class and availability. The bus journey takes around 7 to 8 hours, and the fare ranges from Rs. 300 to Rs. 800, depending on the type and operator. The taxi journey takes around 4 to 5 hours, and the fare ranges from Rs. 3000 to Rs. 5000, depending on the distance and traffic. The flight journey takes around an hour, and the fare ranges from Rs. 2000 to Rs. 5000, depending on the airline and booking.

Q: What are the safety precautions to take while visiting Varanasi?

Varanasi is generally a safe city, but you should still take some basic precautions while visiting. You should avoid wandering alone at night, especially in dark and isolated areas. You should also be careful of pickpockets and scammers, who may try to cheat you or sell you fake products. You should also respect the local customs and traditions and dress modestly and appropriately. You should also avoid drinking tap water or eating street food, as they may cause stomach problems. You should also carry some medicines and a first-aid kit in case of any emergencies.

Q: What are some other places to visit near Varanasi?

A: There are many other places to visit near Varanasi that can offer you a different and enriching experience. Some of the most popular places are Sarnath, where Buddha gave his first sermon; Allahabad, where the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers is located; Chunar, where a historic fort and a waterfall are situated; Vindhyachal, where a famous temple of Goddess Vindhyavasini is located; and Kaushambi, where an ancient Buddhist site and a museum are located. You can easily reach these places by train, bus, or taxi from Varanasi.