48 Hours in Varanasi: A Spiritual and Cultural Immersion

Key Highlights:

• 2-day Varanasi itinerary covering major spiritual, cultural, and historical spots
• Historical overview of Varanasi Cantonment
• Insider travel tips and what to carry
• Best time to visit and what to avoid
• Seamless flight booking options via udChalo

Stepping into Varanasi is like entering a living museum — where every lane, every ghat, and every prayer tells a story. One of the oldest living cities in the world, Varanasi (Kashi or Banaras) is not just a destination; it’s a feeling, a way of life.

Here, spirituality merges with the sounds of temple bells, the colours of bustling markets, the richness of Banarasi silk, and the rhythm of the Ganga. Varanasi is a melting pot of culture, history, religion, and art. It's where Hindu rituals coexist with Buddhist history, and colonial remnants quietly share space with age-old traditions.

Even if you have only got 48 hours, the city gives you enough to experience its timeless charm. This listicle-style guide will help you explore the soul of Varanasi — one prayer, one plate, and one ghat at a time.

Day 1: Dive into the Heart of Spiritual Varanasi

1. Witness Sunrise at Assi Ghat

Start your day with the serenity of the Ganga as the sun rises. Join the morning aarti, yoga sessions, or simply sit by the river and soak in the calm.

Travel Tip: Reach by 5:30 AM for a peaceful experience.

2. Stroll Through the Old City & Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Walk through narrow alleys full of life, street food, and devotion. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a must-visit.

What to Carry: ID proof, comfortable footwear, a small pouch for footwear storage.
Avoid: Carrying valuables or large bags, as security is tight.

3. Explore Varanasi Cantonment: Past Meets Present

Originally built during the British era, Varanasi Cantonment played a vital role in colonial administration and military presence. Today, it remains a well-organised military area, housing various defence establishments. The cantonment area is also known for its peaceful lanes, colonial-era buildings, and well-maintained greenery.

Must-See: The area around the cantonment station, Defence establishments, and Sadar Bazaar.
udChalo Tip: Many defence personnel and veterans prefer flight bookings to Varanasi via udChalo for convenience and exclusive fares.

4. Evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat

No trip is complete without attending the mesmerising Ganga Aarti. The lamps, the chants, the crowd — it’s an unforgettable moment.

Travel Tip: Arrive by 5:30 PM for a good spot. You can book a boat to watch the ceremony from the river.

Day 2: Culture, Crafts and Cuisine

5. Sarnath – Where Buddha Preached His First Sermon

Just 10 km from Varanasi, Sarnath is one of the four major Buddhist pilgrimage sites. Explore the Dhamek Stupa, museum, and ruins.

What to Carry: Sunglasses, water, and light clothing – it can get hot in the afternoon.

6. Banarasi Silk Weaving Centre

Visit a local silk weaving workshop to witness artisans crafting the iconic Banarasi sarees. It’s not only cultural but a great opportunity for shopping.

Tip: Always ask for handloom authenticity if you are buying.

7. Street Food Walk: From Kachori Sabzi to Malaiyyo

Head to Kachori Gali or Vishwanath Gali for a quick bite. Don’t miss:

• Kachori Sabzi
• Tamatar Chaat
• Banarasi Paan
• Malaiyyo (available only in winters)

8. Bharat Kala Bhavan at BHU

Situated inside the BHU campus, this museum houses a rich collection of ancient manuscripts, sculptures, paintings, and artefacts.

Time Required: 1 to 1.5 hours
Entry Tip: Carry your ID card for hassle-free entry.

9. Sunset Boat Ride with a View of All Major Ghats

Wrap up your Varanasi trip with a peaceful boat ride. Watch the city transition from day to night, reflecting off the holy waters.

How to Get There: Book Your Flight to Varanasi with udChalo

Planning a trip to Varanasi? Book your flights to Varanasi on udChalo for seamless, affordable travel. With special fares for defence personnel and families, udChalo ensures comfort, convenience, and value.

Visit udChalo to book now.

Best Time to Visit Varanasi

• October to March is ideal for pleasant weather and festive vibes.
• Avoid peak summer (April to June) due to intense heat.

What to Carry

• Light cotton clothes (or woollens in winter)
• Sunglasses, hat, sunscreen
• Power bank and phone charger
• ID cards
• Small bag for essentials (keep it close and secure)

What to Avoid

• Avoid late-night strolls in very secluded areas
• Don’t engage in aggressive bargaining or follow touts
• Refrain from taking photos during sensitive rituals or at temples without permission

Before You Leave: Let Varanasi Leave an Imprint on You

48 hours in Varanasi can leave you transformed – spiritually, emotionally, and culturally. Whether you are a first-timer or returning for a deeper dive, this sacred city never runs out of charm.

And to make your trip easier, faster, and hassle-free, don’t forget to book your flights and your Varanasi holiday plan via udChalo – trusted by soldiers, veterans, and their families.

FAQs

1. What is the best time to visit Varanasi for a short trip?

The ideal time to visit Varanasi is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and suitable for sightseeing. This period also coincides with festivals like Dev Deepawali and Makar Sankranti, which offer unique cultural experiences. Summers (April to June) can be extremely hot, while the monsoon season (July to September) may disrupt plans due to heavy rainfall and waterlogged areas.

2. How can I book a flight to Varanasi through udChalo?

Booking a flight to Varanasi via udChalo is simple and user-friendly. Just visit udChalo’s website, enter your preferred departure location and ‘Varanasi’ as the destination, select your dates, and browse flight options. udChalo offers exclusive discounted fares for Indian armed forces personnel, ex-servicemen, and their families, making it a cost-effective option for defence travellers.

3. How far is Varanasi Airport from the city and cantonment area?

Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport is located approximately 25–27 km from the Varanasi city centre and Varanasi Cantonment area. It takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour by cab or auto-rickshaw, depending on traffic. Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are available at the airport, and it’s best to confirm fare beforehand or use app-based pricing.

4. What are the must-visit places in Varanasi for a 2-day trip?

If you're in Varanasi for just 48 hours, you should cover:

• Assi Ghat for sunrise
• Kashi Vishwanath Temple for spiritual experience
• Dashashwamedh Ghat for the evening Ganga Aarti
• Sarnath for Buddhist history
• Varanasi Cantonment for colonial history and calm surroundings
• Local markets for Banarasi silk sarees and street food
• Optional: BHU campus and Bharat Kala Bhavan for cultural immersion

5. Can civilians visit Varanasi Cantonment? Are there any attractions inside?

Yes, civilians can access certain public areas of Varanasi Cantonment, such as Sadar Bazaar, railway station areas, and surrounding lanes. While the core military zones are restricted, the cantonment offers a peaceful retreat with colonial-era architecture, wide streets, and a sense of order rarely seen in the bustling city. It’s also a great area to understand Varanasi's British-era past.

6. Is it safe to travel alone in Varanasi?

Varanasi is generally considered safe for solo travellers, including women, especially in popular and religious areas. However, like in any city:

• Stick to well-lit areas after dark
• Avoid secluded lanes or ghats late at night
• Use official taxis or trusted ride apps
• Keep valuables secured
  
  If you are part of the defence community, using udChalo for travel ensures peace of mind with verified services and trusted partners.

7. What should I wear when visiting temples or ghats in Varanasi?

Modest, respectful clothing is recommended, especially when visiting religious places like Kashi Vishwanath Temple or Sankat Mochan Hanuman Mandir.

• Wear light cotton clothes in summer
• Avoid sleeveless tops or shorts in temples
• Carry a shawl or scarf if needed
• Comfortable footwear is essential, as you will walk quite a bit

Footwear is not allowed in most temples, so keep a small pouch or plastic bag to carry them.

8. Does udChalo offer any discounts or travel benefits for Varanasi flights?

Yes, udChalo provides exclusive discounted airfares to Varanasi (and other cities) for:

• Serving defence personnel
• Veterans and ex-servicemen
• Veer Naris and dependents of armed forces
  These offers are not available on public booking platforms and come with dedicated customer support, refund options, and priority service. You can book tickets, reschedule, or cancel directly through udChalo's secure platform.

9. What are some local dishes to try in Varanasi?

Varanasi is a foodie’s paradise. Don’t miss:

• Kachori Sabzi – spicy and filling breakfast
• Tamatar Chaat – unique Varanasi version of chaat
• Banarasi Paan – a cultural symbol, not just a food item
• Malaiyyo – a delicate milk foam dessert, only available in winter mornings
• Thandai – especially during Holi or Shivratri

There are also excellent vegetarian thalis and sweet shops like Blue Lassi, Deena Chat Bhandar, and Kashi Chaat Bhandar.

10. How do I plan a budget-friendly Varanasi trip from a remote location?

Planning a budget-friendly trip is easy when you:

• Book flights via udChalo to avail defence discounts
• Stay in affordable guesthouses or dharamshalas near the ghats or cantonment area
• Use e-rickshaws or walk to explore the old city
• Eat local street food instead of fine-dine restaurants
• Club your visit with a day trip to Sarnath to avoid extra hotel bookings

With a mix of smart travel booking (through udChalo) and local experiences, you can enjoy Varanasi without overspending.