A trip to Varanasi is often described as a life-changing experience by many travellers and writers, and it’s no surprise this city has a profound spiritual and cultural aura that leaves a lasting impression. Often, solo travellers are drawn to its unique charm, and many have shared stories of how Varanasi became a turning point in their lives. Whether through its serene ghats, vibrant rituals, or the peaceful energy of the Ganges, Varanasi invites introspection and transformation. It has also served as the backdrop for numerous movies and books, with plot twists often unfolding amidst its ancient streets, temples, and riverside scenes.
If you’ve come across this article, it’s likely that you’ve read about Varanasi, watched a documentary, or been recommended to visit by a friend. Or maybe, just maybe, Varanasi has called to you in ways you cannot explain. Whatever the reason, a solo trip to Varanasi promises to be an unforgettable experience. However, before you embark on this journey, there are a few important things to keep in mind.
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Best time to plan a solo trip to Varanasi
To enjoy the best of Varanasi as a solo traveller, it’s essential to plan your visit during the right season. The months from November to February are ideal, as the weather is pleasantly cold, making it perfect for exploring the ghats and winding streets on foot. During this time, the mornings are misty, the days are comfortable, and the evenings are perfect for experiencing the Ganga Aarti without the discomfort of heat or humidity.
The months from March to June, however, bring intense heat, with daytime temperatures often becoming unbearable, making outdoor activities challenging. If you plan to visit during these months, schedule activities early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the peak heat.
From July to September, Varanasi experiences the monsoon season. While the rains add a romantic charm to the city, they also bring challenges. Many ghats are submerged due to the rising water levels of the Ganges, limiting access to certain areas. The humidity during this period can also be uncomfortable.
Although Varanasi is a year-round destination, the period between November and February offers the most enjoyable experience for solo travellers, allowing you to make the most of the city’s unique spiritual and cultural offerings.
Where to stay in Varanasi
Since you are travelling solo, it’s highly recommended that you choose the right kind of accommodation for a safe and enjoyable experience. While Varanasi offers all types of accommodations, from luxury hotels to budget stays, it’s crucial to pick one that suits your needs.
No matter which option you choose, ensure that your accommodation is located near the ghats. Avoid booking a stay far from the ghats, as you’ll likely spend a significant amount of time navigating through traffic jams, which can be frustrating. Ideally, your accommodation should not be more than 3 km away from the ghats for convenience.
Once you’ve sorted out the location, the next step is deciding the type of stay. While browsing through numerous booking websites for options is an option, let me save you some time: choose a hostel. Yes, even if you can afford a hotel, hostels are a better choice, and here’s why:
- Lively Atmosphere: Hostels often have vibrant staff and common areas that encourage interaction, making them ideal for solo travelers.
- No Hard-Selling: Unlike some hotels, hostel staff are generally not trying to push commission -based services or tours.
- Community of Travelers: Hostels attract experienced and like-minded travelers, making it easy to connect, share experiences, and even find buddies for city exploration.
- Experienced and Polite Staff: Hostel staff are often knowledgeable and helpful, ensuring you have a smooth and enjoyable stay.
My Recommendations: Livefree Hostels, Wanderstation, Moustache Hostel, Safarnama.
Navigating & Going Around
As a solo traveller, especially for women, safety and convenience are paramount. Varanasi’s charm lies in its labyrinthine streets and vibrant ghats, where almost everything is within walking distance. The best part? You’ll rarely feel alone, as the streets and roads are typically bustling with pilgrims, locals, and visible police presence. However, it’s worth noting that after 10 PM, the streets and ghats tend to become deserted, making it ideal to plan your outings accordingly.
Staying close to the ghats has its perks:
- It allows for early morning explorations and nighttime strolls without long commutes.
- You can immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Varanasi while being close to the city’s spiritual and cultural pulse.
For those who prefer not to walk long distances, shared e-rickshaws are an economical and easy way to get around. Another fantastic option for solo travellers is motorcycle taxis, which are quick, affordable, and excellent for navigating the narrow streets of Varanasi.
App Recommendations for Bike Taxis:
- Uber
- Ola
- Rapido
These apps provide reliable and efficient services, ensuring you can move around the city comfortably and safely.
Where to eat in Varanasi
Varanasi is a paradise for street food lovers and anyone who enjoys vibrant, flavorful cuisine. Almost every street corner has a popular shop offering something unique, reflecting the city’s rich and diverse food culture influenced by people from all over India. Everything smells and looks so tempting that it’s nearly impossible to resist! However, if you have a sensitive digestive system, it’s important to pace yourself and start slow.
For a safer experience, here are a few tips:
- Begin with hygienic street food shops known for their quality or join a food walk in Varanasi.
- If you’re staying at a hostel, like Livefree, take advantage of their menu. They are known for their amazing food, especially their breakfast offerings, which are both delicious and safe.
Additionally, you can explore some of the cozy and charming cafés around Varanasi that serve a mix of local and international cuisines. This way, you can enjoy the best of the city’s food scene while prioritizing your health.
My Recommendation: Assi ka Dijit Cafe, Pizzeria Vatika Cafe, Filo Cafe, Phulwari Cafe.
Staying safe in Varanasi
I’m keeping this section female-centric because, let’s be honest, women often face more challenges when travelling solo, especially in India. As a local, I want to provide practical, no-nonsense advice tailored specifically for women travellers. For the guys reading this, a quick note: avoid mind-altering substances, steer clear of touts, and don’t hand over money to people selling unsolicited services on the streets. Now, girls, here’s what you need to know for a smooth solo trip to Varanasi:
Essential Tips for Women Travelers
Dress Modestly Opt for attire that covers your shoulders and knees. While Varanasi is generally respectful, modest dressing helps you blend in and avoid unwanted attention.
Avoid Taking Lifts from Strangers Public transport and bike taxis are readily available. Trust licensed services instead of relying on unknown individuals.
Skip the Bhang Lassi if Alone While it’s part of the Varanasi experience, consuming Bhang (a cannabis-infused drink) is best avoided when you’re alone, as its effects can be unpredictable.
Plan Day Trips Wisely If you’re visiting places like Sarnath, leave early around 8-10 AM and aim to return by 4-5 PM to avoid traveling after dark.
Stay Alert but Relaxed Varanasi, being one of India’s holiest cities, is safer compared to many other places worldwide. However, like in any city, remain cautious and aware of your surroundings.
Avoid Traveling During Holi While festivals like Dev Deepawali are spectacular and safe to experience, Holi can be chaotic, with crowded streets and overzealous revellers. It’s better to skip Holi if you’re travelling alone. With these points in mind, your solo trip to Varanasi can be an incredible experience – safe, enriching, and full of memories to cherish.
Booking tours & boat rides
If you’re still hesitant about travelling solo, don’t worry opting for a guided tour can be a perfect starting point. A guided tour not only introduces you to the city’s key attractions but also familiarizes you with its culture, history, and unique ways of life. For first-time visitors to Varanasi, we highly recommend the Subah-e-Banaras Morning Walk.
This walk covers:
- Significant landmarks.
- Historical and cultural insights.
- Practical tips to navigate the city.
Plus, the storyteller can assist you with any questions and provide insider recommendations, making your trip smoother and more enjoyable.
Added Perks:
All of our tours include free text and call assistance throughout your stay in Varanasi. This means you can reach out to us anytime for help or advice, ensuring a stress-free experience.
For boats, it’s best to book boat ride online in advance to avoid any last-minute cancellations or hassles. Additionally, while you can find similar tours from other reputed companies like those on TripAdvisor, booking early ensures availability and a well-planned experience.
With a guided tour, you can ease into the spirit of Varanasi while gaining the confidence to explore the city solo afterwards!
