Varanasi, India: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Varanasi, India? If you're planning to go to Varanasi, this is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Varanasi, India

Based on the climate and weather in Varanasi, India, the best time to go is November. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Varanasi, India

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Varanasi, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Varanasi, India by month

January

If you go to Varanasi in January, you will notice that it is warm. Daytime temperatures are in the 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Varanasi. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Check that you find the correct type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you want to check out the beautiful Alamagir Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Varanasi tourism authority.

February

If you are traveling to Varanasi in February, you will notice that it is hot. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Varanasi. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. It's important that you pick the right kind. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you want to check out the beautiful Alamagir Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Varanasi tourism authority.

March

If you visit Varanasi during March, you will probably notice that it is constantly hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 90s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Varanasi. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be careful to get the right kind. Most adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you want to check out the beautiful Alamagir Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Varanasi tourism authority.

April

If you vacation in Varanasi during April, you might notice that it is sweltering. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 100s F (high 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Varanasi. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Make sure to pick the correct kind. Many adapters on sale are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you want to check out the beautiful Alamagir Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Varanasi tourism authority.

May

May in Varanasi is sizzling. Temperatures average in the 100s F (low 40s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Varanasi. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Make sure to find the correct type. Many adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you want to check out the beautiful Alamagir Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Varanasi tourism authority.

June

Traveling to Varanasi in June, you will notice that it can be blisteringly hot. Daytime temperatures are in the low 100s F (high 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Varanasi. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. It's important that you get the necessary type. Most adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you want to check out the beautiful Alamagir Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Varanasi tourism authority.

July

July in Varanasi is sizzling. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 90s F (mid 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Varanasi. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be careful to choose the correct type. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you want to check out the beautiful Alamagir Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Varanasi tourism authority.

August

If you go to Varanasi in August, you will notice that it is consistently hot. Daytime temperatures are in the low 90s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Varanasi. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Make sure to get the right type. Many adapters available online are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you want to check out the beautiful Alamagir Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Varanasi tourism authority.

September

September in Varanasi can be very hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 90s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Varanasi. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be sure to pick the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you want to check out the beautiful Alamagir Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Varanasi tourism authority.

October

October here can be very hot. Temperatures average in the low 90s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Varanasi. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Check that you find the right kind. A lot of adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you want to check out the beautiful Alamagir Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Varanasi tourism authority.

November

November is hot. Temperatures average in the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Varanasi. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Make sure to get the right kind. A lot of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you want to check out the beautiful Alamagir Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Varanasi tourism authority.

December

If you visit Varanasi during December, you will probably find that it is a perfect temperature. Temperatures tend to hover around the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Varanasi. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be sure to pick the right type. Many adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you want to check out the beautiful Alamagir Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Varanasi tourism authority.

What to do in Varanasi, India

Varanasi, also known as Banaras or Kashi, is a city located in Uttar Pradesh, India. It is one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world and is considered a holy city in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. Varanasi is renowned for its ghats (steps leading to the river) along the River Ganges, which attract millions of tourists every year. In this article, we will take a look at the top tourist attractions in Varanasi.

1. Dashashwamedh Ghat

Dashashwamedh Ghat is the main and busiest ghat in Varanasi. It's special because it is believed that Lord Brahma created this ghat to welcome Lord Shiva. This ghat is used for various ceremonies like the Ganga Aarti (a daily ritual held every evening), Hindu rituals, and cremation ceremonies.

2. Manikarnika Ghat

One of the highest regarded ghats on the River Ganges is the Manikarnika Ghat. It's famous because it is the main cremation ghat in Varanasi. Tourists come to watch the Hindu funeral rituals and cremations or for a boat ride on the River Ganges.

3. Kashi Vishwanath Temple

The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is the most sacred temple in Varanasi. It houses one of the twelve Jyotirlingas (a lingam or an object representing Lord Shiva) in India. The temple is also home to various shrines of other Hindu gods and is visited by millions of tourists every year.

4. Sarnath

Sarnath, located just outside the city, is one of the four main Buddhist pilgrimage sites in India. It is the site of Lord Buddha's first sermon after attaining enlightenment. The place is also home to various temples, stupas, and other Buddhist structures.

5. Ramnagar Fort

Ramnagar Fort is located on the other side of the River Ganges. It's a beautiful fort, with its walls made of red sandstone. The fort houses a museum that includes vintage cars, royal utensils, and various other things.

6. Tulsi Manas Temple

Tulsi Manas Temple is dedicated to Lord Rama and is located in the heart of Varanasi. The temple is a modern one, but its walls are inscribed with the verses from the Hindu epic Ramayana.

7. Bharat Kala Bhawan Museum

Bharat Kala Bhawan Museum is located in Banaras Hindu University. It's a museum that displays various artifacts related to Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism. The museum has a collection of miniature paintings, textiles, sculptures, and ancient manuscripts.

8. Assi Ghat

Assi Ghat is one of the most popular ghats in Varanasi. It's located near the spot where the River Assi flows into the Ganges. It's said that Lord Shiva had left his sword (Asi) here before leaving to Kailash. The ghat is used for various ceremonies, including the Ganga Aarti.

In conclusion, Varanasi is a city rich in history, culture and spirituality. With its ghats, temples, forts, and museums, there's so much to see and do in the city. These top tourist attractions in Varanasi are just the tip of the iceberg. It's a city that mustn't be missed by those seeking an authentic Indian experience.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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