Affordable flights to Varanasi

Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport provides the primary air link for those travelling to Varanasi, a major city in Uttar Pradesh. Situated along the banks of the Ganges, it is a central point for pilgrims and travellers who explore northern India.

The city landscape includes the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, which is a significant site for religious architecture. You can explore the steep stone steps of the Dashashwamedh Ghat or visit the nearby Sarnath stupas where historical records indicate the first teachings of the Buddha took place.

A journey to this destination reveals an atmosphere defined by ancient rituals and the local silk weaving industry. Visitors often focus on the spiritual history of the riverfront and the distinct vegetarian cuisine found in the old quarters.

High season in Varanasi

The months from October to March bring a cool, pleasant climate to the city. Daytime temperatures usually stay around 20°C to 25°C, making it comfortable to walk along the riverfront. When you land at Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, the crisp air signals the start of the most active period for the region. The morning mist over the Ganges creates a soft, white backdrop for the daily rituals that define the local rhythm.

This season has a packed cultural calendar, including the Dev Deepawali festival where thousands of lamps light up the stone steps. The evening Ganga Aarti ceremonies at Dashashwamedh Ghat draw large crowds, and the streets are filled with energy. You can spend hours on boat rides or exploring the narrow alleys without the intensity of the summer sun. The pace of life is fast, and the city feels fully open, with every temple and market operating at peak capacity.

Low season in Varanasi

From April to June, the heat intensifies, with temperatures often climbing above 40°C. The city slows down significantly during the middle of the day as residents seek shade. Upon arrival, the heat is immediate, and the landscape appears dry and bright under the sun. While the outdoor heat is strong, this period allows for a much quieter experience at major sites like Sarnath or the Kashi Vishwanath Temple.

The arrival of the monsoon in July changes the atmosphere again, bringing heavy rain and rising river levels. The stone ghats may partially submerge, and the Ganges flows with much greater force. This season offers a more introspective look at the city, as the rain washes the dust from the ancient buildings. Life moves at a slower, more deliberate speed, providing a different perspective on the local landscape away from the busy winter peak.

Exploring the timeless spirit of Varanasi

Stepping off a flight at Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, the transition from the modern world to one of the oldest living cities on earth begins immediately. As you move toward the riverfront, the city reveals itself as a tapestry of narrow winding alleys and vibrant spiritual energy that has drawn travellers for millennia.

Dashashwamedh Ghat
This is the city's most spectacular riverfront site, where the rhythmic Ganga Aarti ceremony fills the air with the scent of incense and the glow of brass lamps every evening. It serves as the primary gateway to the Ganges, offering a sensory introduction to the local devotion that defines the landscape.

Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Commonly known as the Golden Temple due to its striking gold-plated spires, this sacred structure is dedicated to Lord Shiva and stands as the religious soul of the city. The surrounding lanes, known as Vishwanath Gali, are packed with small shops selling intricate silk and traditional sweets, creating a bustling atmosphere of discovery.

Sarnath
Located just a short drive from the city centre, this tranquil archaeological site is where Gautama Buddha is said to have given his first sermon. The massive Dhamek Stupa dominates the horizon, surrounded by peaceful gardens and ancient monastery ruins that offer a quiet space for reflection away from the urban hum.

Assi Ghat
Situated at the confluence of the Ganges and the Assi River, this southern ghat is a favourite for those seeking a more contemplative experience. It is famous for hosting the Subah-e-Banaras, an early morning ritual that combines Vedic chants and classical music as the sun rises over the water.

Manikarnika Ghat
While deeply solemn, this location provides a profound look into the local philosophy regarding the cycle of life and death. Observing the perpetual fires from a respectful distance allows visitors to understand the cultural significance of the city as a place of final liberation.

Ramnagar Fort
Across the river stands this 18th-century sandstone fortification, which remains the ancestral home of the Kashi Naresh. The museum inside houses a quirky collection of vintage cars, ornate palanquins, and ancient clocks, reflecting the regal history that parallels the city's spiritual identity.

Prepare to fly toward the ancient horizon of Varanasi by exploring the best available flight options today. To find great value, try booking your tickets well in advance and staying flexible with your arrival dates through the Opodo app. For those who travel often, Opodo Prime makes the journey more seamless with extra benefits that let you focus on the excitement of your spiritual discovery.