Travel Tips & Safety

Travel Tips & Safety

Varanasi is a magical city full of spiritual energy, history, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re visiting for its sacred temples, Ganga Aarti, or delicious food, here are some essential travel tips and safety advice to make your visit smooth and enjoyable.

 Best Time to Visit Varanasi

✅ October – March → Ideal for sightseeing, comfortable weather, and outdoor activities.
✅ April – June → Summer (hot, but great for temple visits and indoor activities).
✅ July – September → Monsoon season (less crowded, but expect occasional rains and flooding).

 How to Travel Safely to Varanasi

 By Train:
✔️ Varanasi Junction (BSB) is the main station and well-connected to all major cities.
✔️ Book tickets in advance via IRCTC to avoid last-minute hassle.
✔️ Use official porters (with uniforms) at the station to avoid scams.

 By Air:
✔️ Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS) is around 25 km from the city center.
✔️ Take a prepaid taxi or use Uber/Ola for a safe and affordable ride to your destination.
✔️ If flying into Delhi, take a train or a taxi to Varanasi.

 By Road:
✔️ Varanasi is connected by highways like NH2 (Delhi–Kolkata) and NH31 (Patna).
✔️ Avoid night driving due to poorly lit roads outside the city.
✔️ Use local taxis or hire a car for comfort and safety.

 Local Transport Safety in Varanasi

 Auto-Rickshaws & Cycle Rickshaws:
✔️ Always negotiate the fare in advance or ensure the driver uses a meter.
✔️ Avoid late-night rickshaw rides in remote areas.
✔️ Travel with someone if possible, especially when going to isolated or less populated areas.

 Uber/Ola & Prepaid Taxis:
✔️ The safest and most convenient option for travelers.
✔️ Always verify driver details through the app before getting into the car.
✔️ Share your ride details with a friend or family member for extra security.

 Walking Around Varanasi:
✔️ Be cautious in crowded areas, such as Ghats & Godowlia Market—pickpockets are active.
✔️ Use comfortable walking shoes as you’ll be walking through narrow, uneven lanes.
✔️ Stay hydrated and carry a water bottle while exploring the city.

 Safety Tips for Tourists in Varanasi

✔️ Stay Safe at the Ghats & During Rituals

• The ghats are spiritual and busy areas, especially during Ganga Aarti and funeral rituals.
• Be respectful and avoid taking photographs of people, especially during cremation ceremonies.
• Avoid wandering alone at night near ghats or dark alleys.

✔️ Beware of Scams & Touts

• Beware of unofficial guides offering expensive services near temples, ghats, or the Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
• Stick to official counters for boat rides and temple services.
• Avoid accepting unsolicited help or gifts from strangers, especially near tourist hotspots.

✔️ Respect Local Culture & Traditions

• Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples or sacred places.
• Cover your shoulders and knees when entering temples.
• Remove your shoes before entering temples or homes.
• Be mindful of religious rituals—avoid interrupting ongoing ceremonies.

✔️ Stay Alert in Crowded Markets

• Pickpocketing can be a concern in crowded areas like Godowlia Market and Kashi Vishwanath Gali.
• Keep valuables close and avoid displaying expensive items.
• Use a crossbody bag or money belt to keep your essentials secure.

 Food & Water Safety in Varanasi

✔️ Drink Bottled or Filtered Water

• Always drink bottled water with a sealed cap.
• Avoid tap water and street-side juices.
• Carry a water bottle with you while exploring.

✔️ Eat Freshly Prepared Food

• Street food is delicious, but opt for vendors with long queues or locals.
• Popular dishes to try: Kachori-Sabzi, Tamatar Chaat, Lassi, and Banarasi Paan.
• Avoid raw fruits and salads from street vendors to prevent stomach issues.

✔️ Choose Clean Restaurants for Dining

• Best restaurants for hygiene and local flavors: Pind Balluchi, Kashi Chaat Bhandar, Blue Lassi Shop.
• Always choose restaurants with good hygiene ratings and those recommended by locals or your hotel.

 Packing Tips for Varanasi

 Clothing:

• Winter (Nov–Feb): Warm clothes (temperatures can drop at night).
• Summer (Apr–Jun): Light cotton clothes, sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats.
• Monsoon (Jul–Sep): Raincoat, waterproof shoes, and an umbrella.

 Essentials:

• Portable power bank for long excursions.
• Universal plug adapter if traveling from abroad.
• First-aid kit (include common medications for stomach issues, pain relief, etc.).

 Personal Care:

• Hand sanitizer & face masks for hygiene.
• Insect repellent for mosquito protection.

 Emergency Numbers in Varanasi

• Police: 100
• Tourist Helpline: 1363
• Women’s Helpline: 1091
• Ambulance: 102

 Budget & Money-Saving Tips

 Use Digital Payments

• UPI, Paytm, Google Pay are widely accepted in Varanasi.
• Carry some cash for smaller vendors and auto-rickshaw rides.

 Bargain in Local Markets

• Godowlia Market, Vishwanath Gali are great places for handicrafts and souvenirs.
• Always negotiate prices at local markets, especially for silk sarees and religious artifacts.

 Transport Tips

• Auto-rickshaws and shared cycle rickshaws are budget-friendly but be sure to negotiate the fare in advance.
• Use Uber/Ola for comfortable and safe travel around the city.
• Take the train for long-distance travel to nearby cities like Sarnath, Allahabad, and Bodh Gaya.

 Final Travel Tips

✔️ Book accommodations & transport in advance (especially during festivals).
✔️ Avoid visiting isolated areas at night (especially around ghats and temples).
✔️ Always keep a copy of your passport/ID in case of emergencies.
✔️ Be respectful of local customs and religious practices.
✔️ Stay aware of your surroundings in crowded places.

Varanasi is a beautiful yet chaotic city, rich in culture and spirituality. By following basic travel safety guidelines and being mindful of local customs, you can have an enlightening and memorable experience.

 Best Time to Visit: October – March