Best Time and Season to Visit Varanasi

The sacred city of Varanasi, a major pilgrimage destination for Hindus and Buddhists, sits on the banks of the Ganges River. This ancient city showcases unique cultural rituals and experiences extreme weather conditions throughout the year. Despite the occasional chill, winter is the optimal time to visit.

Seasons	Months	Temperature
Summers	March to June	20°c – 45°c
Monsoon	July to September	24°c – 32°c
Winter	November to February	5°c – 20°c

Winter Season (November-February)

Winter is the preferred time to visit Varanasi, with cool and pleasant temperatures ranging from 5°C to 20°C. The festive atmosphere enhances exploration of temples, ghats, and narrow lanes. Key winter attractions include Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Dashashwamedh Ghat, and Sarnath where Buddha delivered his first sermon. These are among the renowned Ghats in Varanasi. The evening Ganga Aarti ritual provides a mesmerizing spiritual experience. Things to do in winter:

Participate in the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat
Explore Varanasi’s narrow lanes and discover hidden gems
Take a boat ride on the Ganges for a different perspective of the ghats

Summer Season (March-June)

Summers bring high temperatures between 20°C-45°C. While hot, this period offers fewer crowds. Plan outdoor activities for early morning or evening to avoid peak heat. Summer is ideal for visiting holy places in Varanasi including Tulsi Manas, Durga Temple, and Bharat Mata Temple. The markets provide vibrant shopping experiences for traditional crafts and souvenirs. Things to do in summer:

Visit Tulsi Manas Temple with its beautiful Ramayana wall paintings
Shop for Banarasi silk sarees and handicrafts in local markets
Take a day trip to Sarnath to explore Buddhist heritage

Monsoon Season (July-September)

The monsoon season brings relief from summer heat with temperatures between 24°C-32°C. While rain may disrupt outdoor activities, the revitalized landscapes and flowing Ganges create a serene atmosphere. During monsoon, explore famous tourist places in Varanasi including Banaras Hindu University and Ramnagar Fort amid lush green surroundings. Things to do in monsoon: