Best Time to Visit Varanasi in 2025 – Weather & Festivals Guide
Table of Contents
Introduction
Best Time to Visit Varanasi
Planning your first or next trip to Varanasi? Timing is everything when it comes to exploring India’s spiritual capital. From the peaceful Ganga mornings to the festive chaos of Dev Deepawali, the experience of Varanasi can vary dramatically depending on the season. In this guide, Triponef helps you choose the Best Time to Visit Varanasi by breaking down the weather, festivals, and unique events that define each season.
Winter (October to March) – Best Time to Visit Varanasi
Weather: Pleasant and cool (15°C to 28°C)
Why it’s great: Comfortable for sightseeing, boat rides, temple visits, and street walks
Key Festivals:
Dev Deepawali (Nov-Dec): The ghats are lit with millions of diyas in a magical night celebration.
Ganga Mahotsav: A multi-day cultural fest with music, dance, and spiritual performances.
Makar Sankranti: People take holy dips in the Ganges; kites fill the sky.
Mahashivratri: Huge celebrations at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
Trip Tip: Book hotels and experiences early! This is peak season in Varanasi.
Summer (April to June) – Hot but Less Crowded
Weather: Very hot (30°C to 45°C)
Why go: Lower prices and fewer tourists
What to expect: Some temples and spots are less crowded. Early morning and evening explorations are best.
Trip Tip: Stay indoors during afternoons and keep yourself hydrated.
Monsoon (July to September) – Green, Humid & Serene
Weather: Rainy, humid, occasional flooding on ghats
Why go: Lush landscapes, peaceful ghats, fewer tourists
Consider: Ghats might be slippery; boat rides can be limited
Trip Tip: Great time for spiritual travelers who want fewer crowds.
Must-See Festivals & Events in Varanasi
Dev Deepawali – Grandest celebration; once-in-a-lifetime vibe
Ganga Mahotsav – Culture lovers’ paradise
Mahashivratri – Devotees throng Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Chhath Puja – Local women offer prayers at sunrise & sunset
Holi – Colors, joy, music in the lanes of Varanasi
Best Time for Different Traveler Types
Photographers: Winter (Dev Deepawali, Ganga Aarti)
Spiritual Seekers: All seasons, especially during festivals
Budget Travelers: Summer and Monsoon
Foreign Tourists: Winter for best overall experience
Travel Tips by Triponef
Carry light cotton clothing and scarves in summer
Warm layers in winter mornings
Use Triponef to book verified boat rides and local guides
Book early for festivals
Pack slippers, raincoat/umbrella for monsoons
Plan with Triponef
Triponef offers:
Festival-focused travel packages
Custom itineraries for your trip length and preferences
Local guides, heritage walks, and boat ride bookings