Budget Trip to Varanasi – Complete Travel Guide

Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Banaras, is one of the oldest living cities in the world. It is a place where spirituality, culture, and everyday life flow together along the banks of the Ganga.

What makes Varanasi truly special is that you don’t need a big budget to experience its soul. From early morning Ganga aarti to peaceful temple lanes and simple local food, this city offers a deeply fulfilling journey even for budget travellers.

Whether you are travelling with family, planning a spiritual trip, or visiting Varanasi for the first time, this guide will help you explore the city comfortably without spending too much.

Varanasi sirf ek jagah nahi hai, ek ehsaas hai — jo dheere-dheere dil mein utar jaata hai.

🗓️ Best Time to Visit Varanasi (For Budget Travellers)

Choosing the right time to visit Varanasi can make a big difference, especially if you are travelling on a budget. The city can be visited throughout the year, but some months are more comfortable and affordable than others.

October to March is considered the best time to visit Varanasi. The weather during these months is pleasant, making it easier to explore ghats, temples, and local markets on foot. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so hotel prices may be slightly higher during festivals and holidays.

If you are looking for a more budget-friendly option, July to September can be a good choice. The monsoon brings fewer tourists, and many budget hotels offer lower prices. The ghats look beautiful after the rains, though you should be prepared for occasional showers.

It is best to avoid April to June if possible, as summers in Varanasi can be extremely hot and uncomfortable, especially for elderly travellers and families.

Budget tip: Travelling just before or after the peak season helps you save money while still enjoying a comfortable experience.

🚆 How to Reach Varanasi on a Budget

Reaching Varanasi is quite easy and affordable, as the city is well connected by train, road, and air. If you are travelling on a budget, choosing the right mode of transport can help you save a good amount of money.

By Train:

Train travel is the most economical and convenient way to reach Varanasi. The city has multiple railway stations, including Varanasi Junction and Kashi Railway Station, with direct trains from major cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Lucknow. Sleeper class and 3AC are good budget options for long-distance travel. Booking tickets in advance can help you get lower fares.

By Bus:

Government and private buses operate regularly from nearby cities and towns. State transport buses are usually cheaper and suitable for short-distance travel. This option works well if you are travelling from places like Prayagraj, Lucknow, or nearby regions.

By Air:

Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport connects Varanasi with major Indian cities. However, flights are generally more expensive compared to trains and buses. If you plan early and book during sales, air travel can sometimes fit into a moderate budget.

Budget Tip: For first-time visitors and family travellers, train travel offers the best balance of comfort and affordability.

कम पैसों में सफर तब आसान हो जाता है, जब रास्ता भी सही चुना जाए।

🏨 Budget Stay Options in Varanasi

Finding affordable accommodation in Varanasi is not difficult, especially if you plan in advance. The city offers many budget-friendly options that are clean, comfortable, and suitable for families as well as solo travellers.

Budget Hotels:

There are many small budget hotels near areas like Godowlia, Dashashwamedh Ghat, and Varanasi Junction. These hotels usually offer basic facilities such as clean rooms, attached bathrooms, and hot water at reasonable prices. Staying close to the ghats can also help you save on local transport costs.

Dharamshalas and Guest Houses:

Dharamshalas are one of the most affordable and peaceful stay options in Varanasi, especially for pilgrims and families. Many dharamshalas provide simple rooms at very low prices and are located near major temples and ghats. Guest houses are also a good option for travellers looking for a homely environment.

Homestays:

Budget homestays are becoming popular in Varanasi. They are usually affordable and give you a chance to experience local life closely. Some homestays also include home-cooked meals, which can help reduce food expenses.

Budget Tip: Avoid peak festival days if you want cheaper room rates, and try booking your stay a few weeks in advance for better prices.

सही जगह ठहरने से सफर का सुकून कई गुना बढ़ जाता है।

🍽️ Budget Food Options in Varanasi

Eating in Varanasi is an experience in itself, and the good news is that you don’t need to spend much to enjoy local flavours. The city offers plenty of affordable food options that are tasty, filling, and easy on the pocket.

Street Food:

Varanasi is famous for its simple yet delicious street food. Kachori-sabzi, jalebi, samosa, and chaat are easily available at very low prices. These local foods are not only budget-friendly but also give you a true taste of the city.

Local Eateries:

Small local restaurants and dhabas serve vegetarian meals at reasonable rates. A simple thali with roti, sabzi, dal, and rice can be a very economical and satisfying option for lunch or dinner.

Temple and Ashram Meals:

Some temples and ashrams offer free or low-cost meals to visitors. These meals are simple, hygienic, and especially helpful for budget travellers and pilgrims.

Budget Tip: Eat where locals eat, and avoid expensive cafes near tourist-heavy areas if you want to save money.

सादा खाना भी अगर दिल से मिले, तो यादगार बन जाता है।

🎯 Things to Do in Varanasi for Free or at Low Cost

One of the best things about Varanasi is that many of its most meaningful experiences cost little to nothing. You can truly feel the spirit of the city without spending much money.

Attend Ganga Aarti:

Watching the evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat is a powerful experience and completely free. Arriving early helps you get a good spot without paying for boat seating.

Morning Walk Along the Ghats:

A peaceful walk along the ghats early in the morning lets you see daily life, rituals, and the beauty of the river. This experience costs nothing and leaves a lasting impression.

Visit Temples:

Most temples in Varanasi, including Kashi Vishwanath Temple, do not charge any entry fee. Visiting during non-peak hours can help you avoid long queues and extra expenses.

Explore Local Lanes:

Walking through the narrow lanes of Varanasi is like stepping into history. You can discover local shops, small shrines, and traditional homes without spending any money.

Budget Tip: Avoid paid guides unless necessary; exploring on your own often gives a more personal experience.

Varanasi khud ko mehsoos karne ki jagah hai, kharch karne ki nahi

💰 Sample Budget Breakdown for a 2–3 Day Trip to Varanasi

Planning your expenses in advance helps you enjoy your trip without stress. Below is a rough budget estimate for a 2–3 day budget trip to Varanasi for one person. Actual costs may vary depending on travel season and personal choices.

Travel (Train – Sleeper/3AC): ₹800 – ₹1,500 (one side)

Local Transport: ₹200 – ₹400

Budget Stay (2 nights): ₹800 – ₹1,500

Food (2–3 days): ₹500 – ₹800

Miscellaneous Expenses: ₹200 – ₹300

Estimated Total Budget: ₹2,500 – ₹4,500 (excluding return travel)

This budget allows you to stay comfortably, eat local food, and experience the city without unnecessary spending. Travelling with family or in a group can further reduce per-person costs.

Budget Tip: Keep some extra cash for emergencies, but avoid over-planning expenses to enjoy the trip freely.

थोड़े पैसों में भी अगर दिल खुश हो जाए, वही असली यात्रा है