Search flights to Varanasi

Varanasi, also known as Benares or Kashi, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and a major cultural and religious hub in northern India. With a population of approximately 1.5 million people as of 2023, Varanasi is situated on the banks of the sacred Ganges River in the state of Uttar Pradesh. The city is revered for its spiritual significance, vibrant culture, and historical landmarks.

Varanasi experiences a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers, a monsoon season, and cool winters. The best time to visit Varanasi is from October to March when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for exploring the city's many attractions.

Varanasi is served by Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, located about 26 kilometers from the city center. The airport offers direct flights to major UAE cities such as Abu Dhabi and Dubai through airlines like Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet, ensuring convenient travel for UAE residents.

Varanasi's cuisine is a rich tapestry of flavors, reflecting the city's diverse cultural heritage. The city is famous for its street food, including dishes like kachori, chaat, and samosas. Sweets such as jalebi, rabri, and the iconic Banarasi paan are also popular among locals and visitors. The use of traditional spices and fresh ingredients adds a unique depth to the local cuisine.

Tourist attractions in Varanasi highlight its spiritual and historical significance. The ghats of Varanasi, particularly the Dashashwamedh Ghat and Manikarnika Ghat, are central to the city's spiritual life, where pilgrims perform rituals and ceremonies along the sacred Ganges River. The evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat is a mesmerizing spectacle of lights and devotional music.

The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the most revered temples in India and a key pilgrimage site for Hindus. The Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple and the Durga Temple are other important religious landmarks in the city.

For those interested in history and culture, the Banaras Hindu University (BHU) campus houses the Bharat Kala Bhavan museum, which features an extensive collection of Indian art, archaeology, and artifacts. The Ramnagar Fort, located on the eastern bank of the Ganges, offers a glimpse into the royal heritage of Varanasi.

Nature enthusiasts can visit the Sarnath Deer Park, located just outside the city, where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. The park is home to the Dhamek Stupa and several other Buddhist monuments, making it an important site for Buddhist pilgrims.

UAE nationals who have previously obtained an e-visa or a regular paper visa for India are eligible for a Visa-on-Arrival when they visit India again. However, this facility is not available to those visiting India for the first time, who must instead apply for an e-visa or a regular visa. To obtain a Visa-on-Arrival, eligible UAE nationals need to fill out an application form (Annexure I), which can be downloaded and completed in advance or filled out upon arrival in India.