Quick Facts

Quick Facts About Varanasi – VBK Travel Essentials

Welcome to Varanasi, India’s spiritual capital and one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities. Whether you're planning your first visit or returning to reconnect with its sacred vibes, VBK (Varanasi Banaras Kashi) offers you this easy reference guide of quick facts – covering everything from history and culture to local tips and must-knows.

Location

• State: Uttar Pradesh, India
• Situated on: Western bank of the Ganges River
• Nearby: Sarnath (10 km), Prayagraj (120 km), Bodh Gaya (250 km)

Historical Significance

• Age: Over 3,000 years old
• Also Known As: Kashi, Banaras, and Benares
• Founded by: Legend says by Lord Shiva himself
• Mentioned in: Ancient texts like the Rigveda, Mahabharata, and Ramayana

Religious Importance

• One of the seven sacred cities (Sapta Puri) in Hinduism
• Home to the Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirlinga, dedicated to Lord Shiva
• Final rites performed at Manikarnika Ghat are believed to grant moksha (liberation)
• A key destination for Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and spiritual seekers

Top Attractions

• Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat
• Sunrise boat rides on the Ganges
• Kashi Vishwanath Temple
• Sarnath Buddhist site
• Banarasi Silk weaving workshops
• Local street food tours

Best Time to Visit

• October to March – Pleasant weather, ideal for exploring
• Peak Festive Season: Diwali, Dev Deepawali, Makar Sankranti
• Avoid: May – June (very hot), July – August (heavy rains)

Travel & Accessibility

• Nearest Airport: Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS) – ~25 km
• Railway Station: Varanasi Junction (BSB)
• Local Transport: Auto-rickshaws, cycle rickshaws, cabs, boats
• VBK Services: Custom tours, pickups, heritage walks, and language guides

Local Language

• Primary: Hindi
• Widely Understood: English
• Spiritual Chants: Sanskrit (often heard during rituals and ceremonies)

Famous For

• Banarasi Silk Sarees
• Spiritual Souvenirs (Rudraksha, Incense, Ganga Jal)
• Classical Music & Dance
• Holy Ghats and Rituals
• Ayurveda & Wellness Retreats

Local Tips by VBK

• Dress modestly while visiting temples and ghats
• Always remove footwear at religious sites
• Ask before taking photos of people or ceremonies
• Experience at least one sunrise and one Aarti with a guide
• Try street food from verified vendors (or join VBK's curated food tours)

Experience Varanasi with VBK

Varanasi is not just a destination – it’s a spiritual awakening. With VBK, you get authentic, safe, and culturally immersive experiences that help you connect deeply with this sacred city.

Save these quick facts, or better – let VBK handle your entire journey through Kashi.