Kashi Tour Package How to Reach , Ever felt overwhelmed planning a trip to a city you’ve never visited? You’re not alone! Kashi, with its maze-like lanes, multiple transport options, and countless accommodation choices, can seem daunting to first-time visitors. But here’s the good news – with the right information, planning your Kashi journey becomes not just manageable but actually exciting.
This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know about reaching Kashi, getting around the city, and finding the perfect place to stay. Whether you’re a budget traveler hunting for the cheapest rickshaw fare or a luxury seeker looking for heritage hotels with Ganges views, we’ve got you covered. Think of this as your personal Kashi travel companion, answering questions you didn’t even know you had.
How to Reach Kashi (Varanasi)
Reaching Kashi by Air
Major Airports and Flight Connectivity
Flying into Kashi is increasingly convenient thanks to the Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, located about 26 kilometers from the city center. This airport has undergone significant modernization and now handles both domestic and select international flights.
Domestic connectivity is excellent with multiple daily flights from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Kolkata, Hyderabad, and Chennai. Airlines including Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Vistara operate regular services. Flight durations typically range from 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on your origin city.
International travelers can fly directly from destinations like Bangkok, Dubai, and Kathmandu, though most foreign visitors connect through Delhi or Mumbai. The airport features modern amenities including duty-free shopping, restaurants, and currency exchange facilities.
Airport to City Transfer Options
Once you land, several transfer options await. Prepaid taxi counters inside the airport offer fixed-rate services to different parts of the city, ranging from ₹600 to ₹1,200 depending on your destination. This option eliminates haggling and ensures transparency.
App-based services like Uber and Ola operate from the airport, often providing competitive rates. The journey to the city center typically takes 45-60 minutes in normal traffic, though expect longer during peak hours or festival seasons.
Many hotels offer complimentary or paid airport pickup services – definitely worth checking when you book accommodation. For budget travelers, shared shuttle services run to major ghat areas at approximately ₹150-200 per person, though they take longer due to multiple stops.
Reaching Kashi by Train
Major Railway Stations
Train travel to Kashi offers an authentic Indian experience and excellent connectivity across the country. The city has three main railway stations: Varanasi Junction (also called Varanasi Cantt), Mughal Sarai Junction (recently renamed Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Junction), and Varanasi City Station (also known as Kashi Station).
Varanasi Junction is the most centrally located, approximately 4 kilometers from Dashashwamedh Ghat. It’s well-connected to most major Indian cities and is usually the most convenient for tourists. The station has undergone beautification and offers decent facilities including waiting rooms, food outlets, and cloak rooms.
Mughal Sarai Junction, about 17 kilometers from the city, is a major railway junction where many long-distance trains stop. It’s larger and handles more trains but requires longer city transfers. Varanasi City Station is smaller, handles fewer trains, but is closer to some ghat areas.
Popular Train Routes
Some of the most popular train routes to Kashi include the Kashi Vishwanath Express from Delhi (covering the distance in approximately 12-13 hours), the Mahamana Express from New Delhi, and various trains from Mumbai that take about 24-28 hours. From Kolkata, multiple trains make the journey in roughly 12-15 hours.
The newly introduced Vande Bharat Express connects Varanasi with Delhi in about 8 hours, offering a premium travel experience with modern amenities. Trains from South India typically take 30-40 hours but provide scenic journeys through diverse landscapes.
Booking Tips and Classes
Indian Railways offers multiple classes: AC First Class, AC 2-Tier, AC 3-Tier, Sleeper, and Second Seating. For overnight journeys, AC 2-Tier or AC 3-Tier offer good comfort at reasonable prices. Book tickets at least 30 days in advance during peak seasons (October-March) as trains fill up quickly.
Use the official IRCTC website or app for booking, or trusted platforms like MakeMyTrip and Cleartrip. Tatkal (emergency) booking opens one day before travel but tickets sell out within minutes. Consider waitlisted tickets for popular routes – they often get confirmed as the travel date approaches.
Reaching Kashi by Road
Bus Services
Road travel to Kashi works well from nearby cities and towns. Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) operates regular bus services from cities like Lucknow (6-7 hours), Allahabad (3-4 hours), and Gorakhpur (4-5 hours). Private operators also run comfortable coaches on these routes.
From Bihar, buses connect Patna to Varanasi in approximately 5-6 hours. The main bus stand is located near Varanasi Junction railway station, making onward connections convenient. Volvo and semi-sleeper buses offer more comfort than regular buses, worth the extra cost for longer journeys.
Self-Drive Options
Adventurous travelers might consider driving to Kashi. The National Highway network provides good road connectivity. The Delhi-Varanasi route via NH-19 and NH-2 spans approximately 800 kilometers and takes 12-14 hours with breaks.
However, driving in and around Kashi requires patience and good navigation skills. Traffic can be chaotic, and the narrow lanes of the old city are vehicle-restricted. If self-driving, consider parking at your hotel and using local transport for sightseeing. Car rental services are available in Varanasi, both with and without drivers.
Reaching Kashi by Cruise or Boat
Here’s something unique – luxury river cruises now connect Kashi with other Ganges cities! Companies like Antara Cruises and Ganges Voyager offer multi-day river journeys from Kolkata to Varanasi, combining transportation with accommodation and sightseeing. These journeys take 5-7 days, offering a leisurely, scenic approach to reaching Kashi.
While not the fastest option, cruise travel provides a completely different perspective on the Ganges and riverside life. It’s perfect for travelers who value the journey as much as the destination and have time to spare.
Local Transportation in Kashi
Auto-Rickshaws and Cycle-Rickshaws
Once in Kashi, auto-rickshaws become your best friends for medium-distance travel. These three-wheeled vehicles charge approximately ₹20-30 per kilometer, though most drivers don’t use meters, so negotiate fares before starting. From the railway station to Dashashwamedh Ghat typically costs ₹100-150.
For navigating the narrow lanes near ghats, cycle-rickshaws (pedal-powered) are ideal. They’re slower but can access areas where motor vehicles can’t venture. Expect to pay ₹30-50 for short distances within ghat areas. It’s environmentally friendly and provides a more intimate view of local life.
Pro tip: Learning a few Hindi phrases for directions helps immensely. Most auto and cycle-rickshaw drivers speak limited English, so having your destination’s name written in Hindi or showing photos can bridge communication gaps.
App-Based Cab Services
Uber and Ola have transformed urban transport in Kashi. These services offer the convenience of cashless payments, transparent pricing, and GPS tracking. They’re particularly useful for airport transfers, late-night travel, or when you want air-conditioned comfort.
Rates are generally reasonable – a 5-kilometer trip costs around ₹80-120 depending on vehicle type and time. During peak hours or festivals, surge pricing applies. The main limitation? These cabs can’t access the innermost ghat areas where vehicle restrictions apply.
Rental Options (Bikes and Scooters)
For independent-minded travelers, renting a motorcycle or scooter offers tremendous freedom. Several rental shops near Assi Ghat and Godowlia offer bikes starting from ₹300-500 per day for scooters and ₹500-1,000 for motorcycles, depending on the model.
You’ll need a valid driving license (international license for foreigners) and typically leave an ID as security. Rental shops provide helmets, though check their condition. Riding in Kashi requires constant alertness – traffic rules are more suggestions than laws here, and cows, pedestrians, and rickshaws share the road unpredictably.
For a greener option, bicycle rentals are available at similar locations for just ₹100-200 per day. Morning bike rides along the ghats before the city awakens are magical experiences.
Boat Transportation Along the Ghats
Boats aren’t just for sightseeing – they’re legitimate transport along the 7-kilometer riverfront! Shared boats operate like water buses, hopping between major ghats. This is the most scenic way to travel between Assi Ghat and Raj Ghat, avoiding road traffic entirely.
Private boat hire costs ₹500-2,000 depending on duration and services. Many boatmen have operated family businesses for generations and double as knowledgeable guides, sharing stories about each ghat and the life unfolding along the banks.
Early morning boat rides from Assi to Dashashwamedh Ghat (approximately 1 hour) are particularly popular, timed to catch the sunrise and morning rituals. Evening boats return from the Ganga Aarti, though they can get crowded.
Walking Tours in the Old City
Honestly? The best way to experience Kashi’s old quarters is on foot. The labyrinthine lanes connecting temples, ghats, and markets are too narrow for vehicles anyway. These walks immerse you in daily life – dodging cows, greeting shopkeepers, discovering hidden shrines, and stumbling upon architectural gems.
Many travelers join guided walking tours (₹500-1,500 per person) led by locals who know secret shortcuts and historical details. These tours often include food tastings, temple visits, and silk weaving demonstrations. Going solo works too if you have a good sense of direction and don’t mind occasionally getting lost (which is half the fun!).
Comfortable walking shoes with good grip are essential – the stone ghats can be slippery, and lanes are unevenly paved. Start early morning to avoid heat and crowds, and keep yourself hydrated.
Accommodation Options in Kashi
Budget Hotels and Guesthouses
Best Areas for Budget Stays
Budget accommodations in Kashi offer clean, basic rooms starting from ₹500-1,500 per night. The Assi Ghat area is budget traveler central, with numerous guesthouses offering rooftop terraces overlooking the Ganges. Places like Stops Hostel, Moustache Hostel, and Zostel provide dorm beds from ₹300-500 and private rooms from ₹800-1,200.
The Godowlia area, closer to Vishwanath Temple, has many family-run guesthouses. While rooms might be smaller than those at Assi Ghat, you’re in the heart of the action. The Bengali Tola area offers budget stays with character – old buildings converted into guesthouses maintaining traditional architecture.
Hostels for Backpackers
Kashi’s hostel scene has exploded recently, catering to young travelers seeking social atmospheres. Most hostels organize group activities like morning yoga, street food tours, and boat rides. Common areas facilitate meeting fellow travelers, and staff are usually excellent sources of local information.
Stops Hostel Varanasi near Assi Ghat is highly rated, offering clean facilities, cultural activities, and a rooftop café. Moustache Hostel provides similar amenities with a slightly more party-oriented vibe. These hostels often have travel desks helping arrange tours and onward bookings.
Mid-Range Hotels
Best Value for Money Properties
Mid-range hotels (₹2,000-5,000 per night) strike an excellent balance between comfort and affordability. Hotel Ganges View on Dashaswamedh Ghat offers exactly what its name promises – spectacular river views from air-conditioned rooms with modern amenities.
Hotel Alka in the Cantonment area provides reliable comfort away from old city chaos. Palace on Ganges, despite the grand name, is a well-managed mid-range property with a rooftop restaurant serving both Indian and continental cuisine.
Suryauday Haveli is a converted traditional mansion offering heritage charm at moderate prices. It features a lovely courtyard, comfortable rooms, and a rooftop overlooking the Ganges. These properties typically include breakfast, have helpful staff, and can arrange tours and transportation.
Luxury Hotels and Heritage Properties
Premium Riverside Accommodations
Ready to splurge? Kashi’s luxury options rival any in India. BrijRama Palace is perhaps the most famous – a 200-year-old riverside palace offering maharaja-worthy rooms with period furniture, private balconies overlooking the Ganges, and impeccable service. Rates start around ₹12,000 per night but include breakfast and cultural performances.
Suryauday Haveli’s luxury rooms offer heritage ambiance with modern comforts. The rooftop infinity pool seems to merge with the Ganges beyond, creating stunning photo opportunities. Their spa offers traditional Ayurvedic treatments using ancient recipes.
Palace Hotels and Boutique Stays
The Gateway Hotel Ganges Varanasi combines luxury with convenience – a modern property with excellent facilities including a pool, spa, multiple restaurants, and professional service. It’s slightly removed from the ghats but offers peaceful respite after busy sightseeing days.
Taj Nadesar Palace, set in 10 acres of mango orchards outside the city center, provides ultimate luxury. This meticulously restored palace offers just 10 rooms, ensuring exclusive, personalized service. The property features vintage cars, a cigar lounge, and gourmet dining. It’s perfect for travelers wanting luxury without being in the old city’s intensity.
Dharamshalas and Ashrams
For spiritual seekers or budget-conscious pilgrims, dharamshalas and ashrams offer accommodation from ₹100-500 per night. These are simple, clean facilities often run by religious trusts. Anand Kashi Dharmshala and Sri Vishwanath Dharmshala provide basic rooms near major temples.
Ashrams like Ganga Darshan and several facilities run by various trusts offer not just accommodation but also opportunities to participate in spiritual activities, yoga sessions, and satsangs. Rules are stricter (vegetarian food, no alcohol, curfews) but the authentic spiritual atmosphere is unmatched.
Homestays and Airbnb Options
Homestays provide the most authentic local experience. Families open their homes to guests, offering not just rooms but also insider knowledge, home-cooked meals, and genuine cultural exchange. Prices range from ₹800-2,500 per night depending on amenities.
Airbnb has numerous listings in Kashi, from entire apartments near BHU campus to rooms in traditional homes in the old city. Reading reviews carefully is crucial – some locations can be challenging to find in the maze-like lanes, and amenities vary significantly.
Neighborhood Guide: Where to Stay in Kashi
Assi Ghat Area
Assi Ghat has become the epicenter of budget and mid-range tourism. This southernmost major ghat offers a slightly less intense version of Varanasi – still authentic but with cafes serving continental food, yoga studios, and a more international vibe. It’s popular with long-term travelers and those seeking a balance between spiritual exploration and comfort.
The neighborhood has numerous accommodation options, good restaurants including Little Italy and Brown Bread Bakery, and easy boat access. Morning Assi Ghat Aarti is smaller and more intimate than Dashashwamedh’s grand ceremony. The BHU campus is walking distance, and auto-rickshaws easily connect to other areas.
Dashashwamedh Ghat Area
Staying near Dashashwamedh Ghat puts you at Kashi’s spiritual heart. The evening Ganga Aarti is literally at your doorstep, Vishwanath Temple is a 5-minute walk, and the old city’s authentic chaos surrounds you. This area offers everything from budget guesthouses to luxury heritage hotels.
The intensity here isn’t for everyone – it’s crowded, noisy, and the narrow lanes can feel overwhelming. But for those wanting to dive deep into Kashi’s essence, there’s no better location. You’ll be awakened by temple bells, fall asleep to devotional music, and witness the timeless rhythms of Ganges life continuously.
Godowlia and Old City
The Godowlia neighborhood is authentic Varanasi – chaotic, colorful, and fascinating. This area around the main market provides budget accommodations close to major temples. You’re surrounded by silk shops, street food vendors, and local life flowing around you.
Navigation can be challenging here – the lanes are confusing and vehicle access is limited. It’s best for travelers who embrace adventure and don’t mind carrying luggage through narrow alleys. The upside? Phenomenal food, great shopping, and rock-bottom prices.
Cantonment Area
The Cantonment (Cantt) area offers a complete contrast – wide roads, modern shops, less crowded, and more organized. It’s where many mid-range and some luxury hotels are located. This area works well for families, first-time visitors to India, or anyone wanting peace after sightseeing.
The downside? You’re 4-5 kilometers from the ghats, so auto-rickshaw rides are necessary for reaching the riverfront. However, restaurants are better, shopping is easier, and the stress level drops significantly. It’s possible to experience Kashi’s spirituality during day visits while retreating to calmer surroundings at night.
BHU Campus Vicinity
Banaras Hindu University (BHU) campus area has emerged as a pleasant accommodation option. This neighborhood offers peace, green spaces, and lower prices than ghat areas. BHU’s Vishwanath Temple is here, along with the excellent Bharat Kala Bhavan museum.
Students populate the area, creating a young, vibrant atmosphere with good, affordable restaurants. It’s about 6-7 kilometers from the main ghats, so you’ll need transport for riverside visits. This location suits those wanting to explore Kashi’s intellectual side while being close to spiritual and tourist sites.
Transportation Tips for Different Types of Travelers
Solo Travelers
Solo travelers have maximum flexibility in Kashi. Hostels provide social atmospheres and organized activities. For transportation, combine walking (safest, most immersive) with occasional auto-rickshaws for longer distances. Download offline maps before arriving – mobile signals can be patchy in some old city areas.
Safety-wise, Kashi is relatively secure but stay alert in crowded areas. Solo women travelers should avoid isolated areas after dark and consider group tours for certain activities. Trusting your instincts matters – if something feels wrong, it probably is.
Families with Children
Families should prioritize convenient transportation and comfortable accommodations. Hotels in the Cantonment area or near Assi Ghat work well, offering amenities like elevators and western toilets. Hire private vehicles or use app-based cabs for family mobility – negotiating with multiple auto-rickshaws becomes tedious with children.
Morning boat rides fascinate kids, but keep close watch near ghats – there are no safety railings. The crowded evening aarti might overwhelm young children; consider viewing from a private boat instead. Pack snacks, sanitizer, and medications – finding familiar foods and products can be challenging in old city areas.
Senior Citizens
Senior travelers should choose accommodations with elevators if possible – many ghat-facing hotels involve stairs. The Cantonment area or modern hotels near Assi Ghat offer better accessibility than old city properties. Hire private cars with drivers for the entire stay to avoid transportation hassles.
Mornings are best for sightseeing before heat and crowds intensify. Take frequent rest breaks and stay hydrated. Many senior travelers find Kashi spiritually moving but physically demanding – pace yourself and don’t hesitate to skip activities if tired.
Foreign Tourists
International visitors should exchange currency at the airport or established banks/exchange centers – avoid street money changers. Register with your embassy if staying long-term. Keep accommodation addresses written in Hindi for showing auto-rickshaw drivers.
Communication can be challenging outside tourist areas. Learning basic Hindi phrases or using translation apps helps tremendously. Cultural differences are significant – patience, humor, and open-mindedness transform potential frustrations into memorable adventures.
Cost Breakdown and Budget Planning
Travel Costs to Kashi
Reaching Kashi varies greatly by origin and booking timing. Domestic flights from major cities range from ₹3,000-8,000 for budget airlines to ₹8,000-15,000 for full-service carriers during peak seasons. Book 3-4 weeks in advance for better rates.
Train travel is more economical – AC 3-Tier from Delhi costs approximately ₹800-1,500, from Mumbai ₹1,200-2,000. Sleeper class reduces these by 50-60%. Buses are cheapest – Lucknow to Varanasi costs ₹300-600 depending on bus type.
Daily Transportation Expenses
Budget ₹300-500 daily for local transport if using auto-rickshaws and boats regularly. This covers 3-4 auto rides and one boat trip. Renting a scooter costs ₹400-500 daily plus petrol, potentially reducing per-day costs for active explorers.
App-based cabs cost more but offer convenience – figure ₹600-800 daily if using exclusively. Walking enthusiasts staying near ghats might spend just ₹100-200 daily on occasional rickshaws. Private hired cars with drivers run ₹2,000-3,000 for 8-hour days.
Accommodation Budget Guide
Budget travelers can find decent accommodation for ₹500-1,500 per night, translating to ₹1,500-4,500 for a 3-night stay. Mid-range travelers should budget ₹2,500-5,000 per night (₹7,500-15,000 for 3 nights). Luxury stays start at ₹8,000 per night, with top properties charging ₹15,000-30,000 nightly.
Adding food (₹500-2,000 daily depending on dining style), entry fees (minimal – most temples are free), and shopping/experiences (variable), a budget trip costs ₹2,500-4,000 daily per person, mid-range ₹5,000-8,000, and luxury ₹12,000+ daily.
Booking Strategies and Best Practices
When to Book for Best Rates
Book flights 4-6 weeks before travel for optimal pricing. Train tickets open 120 days in advance – book immediately for peak season travel. Hotels offer best rates 2-3 weeks before arrival during off-season, but book 1-2 months ahead for October-March visits.
Last-minute deals exist but are risky during peak seasons when properties fill completely. Festival times (Dev Deepawali, Mahashivratri) require 2-3 months advance booking, and prices increase 100-200% above normal rates.
Peak Season vs Off-Season
Peak season (October-March) brings pleasant weather, festivals, and maximum tourists. Accommodation costs 30-50% more, popular trains fill quickly, and ghats are crowded. However, the atmosphere is electric, and festivals create unforgettable experiences.
Off-season (April-September) sees fewer tourists, lower prices, and greater accommodation availability. Summer (April-June) is intensely hot but manageable for morning/evening activities. Monsoon (July-September) brings dramatic skies and full-flowing Ganges but also rain disruptions and humidity.
Online vs On-Arrival Booking
Online booking through platforms like Booking.com, MakeMyTrip, or OYO offers security, reviews, and usually better rates than walking in. You’re guaranteed a room matching your expectations and budget. Payment is transparent, and cancellation policies are clear.
Booking on arrival works during off-season and gives negotiation leverage, especially for longer stays. You can inspect rooms before committing and sometimes get unadvertised discounts. However, it’s risky during peak times, and you might waste precious vacation time hotel hunting.
Conclusion
Planning your Kashi journey need not be overwhelming. With multiple transportation options from budget buses to luxury flights, diverse local conveyance from cycle-rickshaws to private boats, and accommodations ranging from dharamshalas to palaces, Kashi welcomes every type of traveler.
The key to a successful Kashi visit lies in matching your transportation and accommodation choices to your travel style, budget, and comfort needs. Adventurous souls might embrace budget guesthouses and auto-rickshaw navigation, while comfort-seekers might prefer heritage hotels and hired cars. Both approaches lead to the same destination – an encounter with one of the world’s most ancient and spiritually charged cities.
Remember, Kashi isn’t just about efficient logistics – it’s about opening yourself to experiences that transcend planning. Yes, book that flight, reserve that ghat-facing room, and plan your transport. But also leave space for spontaneity, for the unplanned conversation with a boatman, for getting lost in lanes where no guidebook ventures, for moments when perfect planning gives way to perfect presence.
Your Kashi journey begins the moment you decide to go. Whether you arrive by air, rail, or road, whether you stay in a hostel or a palace, the ancient city will work its magic on you. Safe travels, and may your journey to Kashi be as transformative as the city itself.
FAQs
1. What’s the most convenient way to reach Kashi for first-time visitors to India?
Flying into Varanasi is the most convenient option for first-time visitors, especially international travelers. The airport offers modern facilities, clear signage in English, and easy access to prepaid taxis and app-based cabs. It eliminates the potential confusion of navigating large railway stations and provides the quickest transition from arrival to accommodation. While train travel offers more authentic experiences, the convenience and time-saving aspects of flying make it ideal for newcomers.
2. Is it safe to drink tap water in Kashi hotels?
No, avoid drinking tap water throughout Kashi, including in hotels. Even mid-range and some luxury hotels recommend bottled water for drinking. Most accommodations provide complimentary bottled water, or you can purchase it easily everywhere. Use bottled or filtered water for brushing teeth too. Some upscale hotels have RO (reverse osmosis) filtered water available, which is safe. When in doubt, stick to sealed bottled water – it’s inexpensive and widely available.
3. How far in advance should I book accommodation during Dev Deepawali?
Dev Deepawali, one of Kashi’s biggest festivals (15 days after Diwali, usually in November), requires booking at least 2-3 months in advance for decent options. Prime locations near Dashashwamedh Ghat often fill 4-6 months ahead. Hotels raise prices significantly – expect to pay 2-3 times normal rates. If you haven’t booked ahead, consider staying in the Cantonment area or near BHU where availability is slightly better, though still limited. Last-minute bookings might require compromising on location or budget.
4. Can I store luggage somewhere while waiting for my night train from Varanasi?
Yes, multiple options exist for luggage storage. Railway stations have cloak rooms (left luggage facilities) charging nominal fees (₹30-50 per bag per day). Many hotels and guesthouses offer luggage storage for former guests at minimal cost or free. Some travel agencies near major ghats provide paid storage services. If departing at night, consider checking out late (most hotels charge half-day rates) to keep your room until evening, avoiding luggage hassles entirely.
5. What’s the best area to stay for easy access to both ghats and good restaurants?
Assi Ghat area offers the best balance between ghat proximity and modern amenities including quality restaurants. It’s about 15-20 minutes by rickshaw from Dashashwamedh Ghat and the main temple area, yet has cafes serving continental food, Italian cuisine, and comfort foods alongside traditional options. The neighborhood has banks, ATMs, travel agencies, and shops – basically everything tourists need. It’s less intensely chaotic than staying at Dashashwamedh Ghat while still feeling authentically Varanasi. The riverside location provides easy boat access to all other ghats.
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