If you’re in Canada and wish to travel with a deeper experience, Varanasi is a city you must visit.
Varanasi, also called the spiritual capital of India, is one of the oldest cities ever . It’s not only about discovering the holy places or going on river boats, but about experiencing something more profound here. peace, purpose, and connection.
We’ll explain everything to you—from the reasons this city is special to how you can book your travel from Canada
Check Here Suggested : Varanasi Tour with Ayodhya
Why Visit Varanasi?
Situated on the banks of the River Ganges, the city of Varanasi (called Kashi or Benares) is esteemed in Hinduism as a very holy city. A trip to this sacred site is thought to relieve people of their sins and help them reach spiritual freedom (moksha).
Even though it is known for its religious significance, Varanasi has a lot of life to offer.
You’ll find:
- Enjoying lovely boat trips at dawn along the river
- Mesmerizing evening Ganga Aarti ceremonies
- Centuries-old temples and sacred ghats
- Vibrant streets are full of the city’s past, performances and different cuisine
- A lifestyle that is slower paced than what people experience in big cities
It’s a place that encourages you to stand still, think and really experience what’s around you.
Check Here Suggested : Golden Triangle with Varanasi
Traveling from Canada to Varanasi – What to Expect
Now, you might be wondering: What is the best way to reach Varanasi from Canada?
Most people find that actually being creative isn’t as challenging as they expect. Canadian tour packages for Varanasi generally include everything you need.
- International flights departure from Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal and other cities.
- Flights operated within India connecting Delhi or Mumbai with Varanasi.
- Easy access to hotels, from those on a budget to five-star ones.
- Visitors may join guided trips to Sarnath and nearby religious locations.
- All transport in the country, airport pickups and help from a local team.
There are even optional tours such as the Golden Triangle Tour taking in Delhi, Agra and Jaipur
Best Time to Visit Varanasi
Between October and March, when it’s cool and enjoyable, is the best time to visit. During this season, important festivals like take place.
- Diwali – The festival that celebrates with light.
- Dev Deepawali – The city lights all the ghats with candles.
- Makar Sankranti – celebrated each year by flying kites and enjoying colourful festivities.
Attending a festival in Varanasi leaves a lifetime impression
Must-Visit Places in Varanasi
These are some of the best spiritual and cultural attractions you can see when you visit Varanasi:
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple is a Jyotirlinga, an important site for Hindus
- Dashashwamedh Ghat – The place where people attend the evening Ganga Aarti
- Sarnath – A peaceful, historical land where the Buddha taught his disciples for the first time
- Manikarnika Ghat – The most important cremation spot, where peace and witnessing are found
- Banarasi silk shops are well known for handworking silk sarees and textiles.
What to Eat in Varanasi
Varanasi specializes in food that is light, tasty and vegetarian. Don’t miss out on: •
- Kachori-sabzi for breakfast Tamatar chaat at local stalls
- A visit to this place wouldn’t be complete without banarasi paan.
- Lassi – Thick lassis are meant for sweet times in a traditional clay cup
- Malaiyyo – A special dish enjoyed for winter that uses milk froth
You can have an exciting journey just by tasting the local delicacies in Varanasi.
Visa Requirements
Valid tourist visas are compulsory for all Canadian citizens to visit India. The simplest method is to obtain your Indian e-Visa, using the online application process, at least a week before you travel.
- Apply through the official website: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in
- Depending on the options you choose, the Department of State will put a 30-day, 1-year or 5-year e-Visa in your passport.
- Always have your visa printed out and available on your phone when traveling.
Currency Exchange
You use Indian Rupees (INR) while visiting India.
- Make sure you exchange some of your CAD to INR as soon as you reach the airport or any authorized exchange place in the city.
- The best exchange rates are found by steering clear of hotels and unapproved vendors when changing a large amount.
What to Wear
When you visit religious areas and temples, it is important to wear something modest and respectful.
- Opt for lightweight cotton shirts, trouser-styled pants and pants with long sleeves
- Women may want to hold a scarf or shawl during their visit to a temple.
- Avoid wearing shorts, tops without sleeves or revealing clothes while in public places.
- Wear comfortable shoes on your walks along the lanes and ghats of the city.
Connectivity & Communication
It is easy to connect with others in India.
- You can buy local SIM cards with data at the airport or in city stores as long as you have your passport and visa on hand (they are not activated until you have them).
- Many people use Airtel, Jio and Vodafone Idea as popular service providers.
- You can use Wi-Fi at most hotels and cafes, though having a local SIM is more dependable while you’re out and about.
Bonus Tip: Local Etiquette
- Remember to take off your shoes before you go into a temple or another person’s house.
- A slight gesture or a “Namaste” with hands joined is a mannerly greeting.
- Ritual and cremation areas sometimes do not allow photography, so check before you start taking pictures
Final Thoughts – A Journey to Remember
Unlike most tourist spots, Varanasi captures your imagination, shares its deep culture and leaves you feeling deep emotions. Ceremonies for birth and death are performed together and time hardly changes in the cemetery.
Many feel that coming here helps them discover who they are, brings peace and makes India’s ancient beliefs easier to understand. If you’re interested in spiritual life, culture or a meaningful visit, Varanasi is the place to go.
Should you be traveling from Canada, this city will give you a chance to try out a new way of life and see the beauty of eternity.
Ready to Start Planning?
We offer Varanasi tour packages tailored to match your needs as well as your travel schedule and budget.
Come to Varanasi to see another part of India that makes a deep impact and endures in your thoughts.
