Best time to be there
From October to March the weather is refreshingly cool with minimal rainfall in most places. India's main festivals also take place during this time, such as the Pushkar Fair in Rajasthan, the Republic Day of India and Holi, the festival of colours.
Fly to
Delhi/Chennai/Mumbai/Bangalore
flying time
8 hours 20 minutes non-stop
time difference
GMT +5 1/2 hours
Visas
Required for UK passport holders
Health Requirements
Yellow fever certificate if arriving from an endemic area
to speak to a consultant
Varanasi is one of the oldest living cities of the world. This sacred city is set on the banks of the mighty Ganges, where the centuries-old religious bathing and cremation rituals at the Ghangha ghats are a daily occurance. Many of these ghats, nearly one hundred in total, are associated with myth and legend, according to which the Dashashwamedh, the largest and most spectacular of the Varanasi ghats, was created by the Hindu deity Brahma to welcome Shiva. Here you will witness pilgrims entering the Ganges to cleanse themselves of their sins.
As the sun rises, watch people gathering on the shores of the river as they pray to the rising sun. At night, the colourful aarti ceremony takes place at the Dashashwamedh ghat where the river is worshipped with flowers, candles and incense. While here, take time to wander through the old town of Kashi with its narrow lanes, bustling markets and colourful temples. At its heart lies the magnificent Vishwanath Temple, its golden spire rising over 15 metres above the surrounding buildings and attracting Hindu pilgrims in their thousands.
Varanasi tours with Abercrombie & Kent will provide expert guidance, insight and first-hand experience of this wonderful region.
Suggested Varanasi Accommodation
Taj Nadesar Palace
The Nadesar Palace has been hosting royalty since 1835. It provides a tranquil oasis from one of the oldest living cities in the world, Varanasi. This incredible city on the banks of the Ganges is a pilgrimage for Hindus.
to speak to a consultant
Guest Testimonial
First experience with A&K. Intended to ask various travel companies for quotes but Vicky (Agnew) was so good with her suggestions that we did not seek alternative quotations the suggested itinerary was excellent and helped us decide on a balanced and interesting holiday.
- GD, Windermere
World Travel Awards
World Travel Awards
World's Leading Luxury Tour Operator 2011
A&K Philanthropy
Deepalaya School Project
Has provided an education for more than 50,000 disadvantaged and poverty-stricken children over the past thirty years, and emphasizes the often-neglected education of girls.
Latest from @AKTravel_UK: Buzzfeed rounds up 50 of the best eclipse photos from the weekend: http://t.co/BMQ0BGvV 21 hours ago