Is Varanasi Safe? Safety tips for students, women and solo female

Is Varanasi Safe for Tourists? A Survival Guide for First-Timers

Varanasi is a mesmerizing city, rich in culture and spirituality, but it can also be quite overwhelming, especially for first-time visitors. While I didn’t feel unsafe during my visit, I did experience moments of unease. Based on my experience and various travel blogs, here’s a comprehensive guide on what to do and what to avoid to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit to Varanasi.

Safety Overview Is Varanasi Safe

Varanasi is a bustling and vibrant city known for its intense atmosphere. It’s crowded, loud, and at times, stinky, which can be a lot to handle if you’re new to India. The city is incredibly beautiful and spiritually enriching, but it’s essential to stay alert and cautious.

Dos and Don’ts for a Safe Visit Is Varanasi Safe

Dos: Is Varanasi Safe

Acclimate First: If possible, spend a few days in a less intense city like Delhi to acclimatize before diving into the chaos of Varanasi. This can help you adjust more comfortably.
Stay Aware: Keep your wits about you at all times. Varanasi can be overwhelming with its crowds and noise, so stay vigilant, especially in busy areas.
Dress Modestly: Respect local customs by dressing conservatively. This will help you blend in and avoid unwanted attention.
Use Reputable Transport: Use apps like Ola for auto-rickshaw rides to avoid overcharging. Always negotiate fares before starting your journey.
Share Your Location: Keep friends or family informed about your whereabouts, especially if you’re exploring alone.
Stay Hydrated and Safe: Drink bottled water, avoid street food that doesn’t look fresh, and be cautious of hygiene standards.
Be Cautious with Touts: Be wary of unsolicited guides and be sure to verify their legitimacy before agreeing to any services.
Respect Local Customs: Be mindful of local practices, especially when visiting temples or participating in ceremonies.

Don’ts: Is Varanasi Safe

Don’t Wander Alone at Night: Avoid walking alone after dark, especially in less crowded or dimly lit areas.
Don’t Engage with Aggressive Vendors: If someone is persistent or aggressive in selling goods or services, it’s best to politely decline and walk away.
Don’t Disclose Your Accommodation: Avoid telling strangers where you are staying. It’s safer to keep such details private.
Don’t Drink Excessively: Limit alcohol consumption and avoid getting drunk, as it can make you vulnerable.
Don’t Ignore Local Advice: Pay attention to local advice regarding safe areas and potential risks. Locals can offer valuable insights into what to avoid.

Varanasi Safety Is Varanasi Safe

Varanasi Safety Tips for Solo Female Travelers

Varanasi is generally a safe city, but like any destination, it’s essential to take certain precautions to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit. Here are some updated safety tips for solo female travelers:

Avoid Going Out After Dusk: It’s best to stay indoors after dark. If you must go out, try to stay with locals or friends for added safety. Is Varanasi Safe
Beware of Touts: Be cautious about hiring guides on the spot, as they can sometimes lead to unwanted situations or overcharge. Is Varanasi Safe
Use Ola App for Auto/Toto Rides: To avoid being looted by auto-rickshaw or toto drivers, use the Ola App to check the fare to your destination. Negotiate the price slightly below the app’s estimate for a better deal.
Share Your Location: Always share your location with family or friends for added security, especially when traveling alone. Is Varanasi Safe
Opt for Shared Local Transport: When possible, use shared local taxis or totos for safer and more reliable transportation. Is Varanasi Safe
Read Up on Others’ Experiences: Be informed about potential risks by reading others’ travel experiences in Varanasi. Is Varanasi Safe

What Foreign Tourists Should Avoid in Varanasi, India

1. Clicking Pictures at Manikarnika Ghat
Manikarnika Ghat is a sacred cremation site where many Hindus believe they attain moksha (liberation). Out of respect for the families performing last rites, avoid taking pictures. If necessary, capture photos discreetly from a distance or while on a boat.

2. Hiring Unlicensed Guides Is Varanasi Safe
While exploring the ghats or temples, you’ll encounter self-proclaimed guides. Always ensure your guide has an official license to avoid misinformation or scams. Ignore persistent guides and avoid engaging with unlicensed individuals.

3. Carrying Excessive Cash and Valuables Is Varanasi Safe
It’s crucial to safeguard your cash and valuables. Walk around with minimal money—INR 2000 ($30) is sufficient. Most places accept credit cards, and ATMs are easily accessible. Keep valuables like jewelry or expensive watches locked in your hotel room.

4. Using Mind-Altering Substances Is Varanasi Safe
While bhang (edible weed) is legal in Varanasi and available at government-approved shops, avoid other mind-altering substances like marijuana, as they are illegal and often harmful. Use bhang cautiously as its effects can last for hours or even days.

5. Trying to See Too Much Too Quickly
Varanasi is not your typical tourist destination. Trying to see everything in one day can be exhausting. Instead, immerse yourself in the city’s chaos and tranquility, taking the time to explore its narrow streets, ghats, and temples at a slower pace.

6. Skipping Local Food Is Varanasi Safe
Varanasi is a foodie’s paradise! Don’t miss out on the local street food like Kachori, Jalebi, Chaat, Lassi, and more. Embrace the city’s culinary culture, and walk off the calories along the ghats.

7. Driving Around the City Is Varanasi Safe
Driving in Varanasi is challenging due to the narrow streets, heavy traffic, and wandering cows. It’s best to park your car at your hotel and use tuk-tuks or explore the city on foot or by boat, especially in the central areas.

8. Avoiding Interaction with Locals
Varanasi has a deep spiritual and cultural richness. Engage with the locals at the ghats or tea stalls to truly understand the Banarasi way of life. These conversations offer insights that no guidebook can.

9. Disrespecting Local Rituals
Varanasi is steeped in ancient rituals and customs. If something seems unfamiliar, approach it with curiosity and respect instead of judgment. Ask questions to locals or guides to gain a better understanding of the spiritual practices.