Varanasi is one of the oldest and most consistently inhabited cities in the world, as well as the holiest of the seven sacred cities in both Hinduism and Jainism. Needless to say, Varanasi is of paramount importance to most of India’s population and is a particularly auspicious place to die, attracting millions each year. Perched on the banks of the sacred river Ganges, Varanasi takes no prisoners and when you arrive you are instantly bombarded by one of India’s most colourful, chaotic, and indiscreet cities. We rarely recommend that you start your trip in Varanasi, but once you have acclimatised, this could be one of the highlights of your trip.

The ghats are generally where the most spectacular and interesting rituals occur. These are embankments made of steps of stone slabs that trace along the river’s banks; it’s here where pilgrims perform ritual ablutions (ceremonial act of washing parts of the body). We think the best way to appreciate and enjoy the spectacles that unfold daily is by an early morning boat ride. In the early evening, the ghats fill with pilgrims preparing for the Ganga Aarti worship. Young monks perform a series of rituals as incense fills the air and bells create a cacophony. Varanasi is less than a two-hour flight from Delhi, and a short flight from Khajuraho, which means it easily combines with many destinations in northern India and can be considered a bolt-on for a few days at the end of any India itinerary. With limited hotels near the Ghats, we suggest booking Varanasi in plenty of time.