Best Time to Visit Benares – Weather Wise

The city of Benares, also known as Varanasi, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with a rich history dating back over 5,000 years. This sacred city is considered the spiritual capital of India, and is a major pilgrimage site for Hindus. Benares is a city that is steeped in tradition and culture, and is a place where the past and present seem to blend together seamlessly. From the ancient ghats along the Ganges River to the colorful streets of the old city, Benares is a place that is full of life, energy, and spiritual significance.

One of the most important considerations for anyone planning a trip to Benares is the best time to visit. The city has a subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters, and the best time to visit depends on your personal preferences and what you want to do during your trip. In this article, we will explore the best time to visit Benares, and provide you with some valuable tips and information to help you plan your trip.

The Best Time to Visit Benares

The best time to visit Benares is during the winter months, from November to February. This is the coolest and driest time of the year, with average temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). The winter months are also the best time to see the city’s famous festivals, including the Gangaur Festival and the Kashi Naresh Festival.

Winter Weather

During the winter months, the weather in Benares is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing and exploring the city. The average temperature in December, the coldest month, is around 10°C (50°F), while the average temperature in January, the coldest month, is around 12°C (54°F). The winter months are also the best time to take a boat ride on the Ganges River, as the weather is calm and peaceful.

Pros and Cons of Visiting Benares in Winter

• Pros:
  • Coolest and driest time of the year
  • Best time to see festivals and events
  • Pleasant weather for sightseeing
• Cons:
  • Can be quite chilly in the mornings and evenings
  • Some tourist attractions may be closed due to maintenance

Spring and Summer

Spring and summer are the hottest and most humid times of the year in Benares, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 40°C (77°F to 104°F). While the heat and humidity can be challenging, the spring and summer months are also the best time to see the city’s famous flowers and trees in bloom.

Spring Weather

During the spring months, from March to May, the weather in Benares is warm and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). This is a great time to visit the city’s famous gardens and parks, as the flowers and trees are in full bloom. (See Also: Best Time To Visit Smoky Mountains in the Fall – Peak Colors Unveiled)

Pros and Cons of Visiting Benares in Spring

• Pros:
  • Warm and sunny weather
  • Best time to see flowers and trees in bloom
  • Less crowded than the winter months
• Cons:
  • Can be quite hot during the day
  • Humidity can be high

Autumn and Monsoon

Autumn and monsoon are the wettest and coolest times of the year in Benares, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). While the rain can make sightseeing challenging, the autumn and monsoon months are also the best time to see the city’s famous festivals and events.

Autumn Weather

During the autumn months, from September to November, the weather in Benares is mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). This is a great time to visit the city’s famous temples and shrines, as the weather is cool and comfortable.

Pros and Cons of Visiting Benares in Autumn

• Pros:
  • Mild and pleasant weather
  • Best time to see festivals and events
  • Less crowded than the summer months
• Cons:
  • Can be quite cool in the mornings and evenings
  • Rain can make sightseeing challenging

Monsoon Weather

During the monsoon months, from June to August, the weather in Benares is hot and humid, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). While the rain can make sightseeing challenging, the monsoon months are also the best time to see the city’s famous waterfalls and rivers.

Pros and Cons of Visiting Benares in Monsoon

• Pros:
  • Best time to see waterfalls and rivers
  • Less crowded than the summer months
  • Greenery is lush and vibrant
• Cons:
  • Can be quite hot and humid
  • Rain can make sightseeing challenging

Recap

In conclusion, the best time to visit Benares depends on your personal preferences and what you want to do during your trip. The winter months are the coolest and driest, making it ideal for sightseeing and exploring the city. The spring and summer months are the hottest and most humid, but also the best time to see the city’s famous flowers and trees in bloom. The autumn and monsoon months are the wettest and coolest, but also the best time to see the city’s famous festivals and events. (See Also: Best Time To Visit Parc Guell?)

Regardless of when you visit, it is important to be prepared for the weather and to take necessary precautions to stay safe and healthy. It is also important to respect the local culture and traditions, and to be mindful of your surroundings at all times.

FAQs

What is the best time to visit Benares?

The best time to visit Benares depends on your personal preferences and what you want to do during your trip. However, the winter months (November to February) are generally considered the best time to visit, as the weather is cool and pleasant, and the city is less crowded.

What is the hottest and most humid time of the year in Benares?

The hottest and most humid time of the year in Benares is during the summer months (June to August), with average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F).

What is the best time to see the city’s famous festivals and events?

The best time to see the city’s famous festivals and events is during the autumn and monsoon months (September to November and June to August), when the weather is cooler and more pleasant.

What is the best time to visit the city’s famous temples and shrines?

The best time to visit the city’s famous temples and shrines is during the autumn months (September to November), when the weather is cool and comfortable. (See Also: Best Time to Visit Sicily – Perfect Weather Awaits)

What is the best time to take a boat ride on the Ganges River?

The best time to take a boat ride on the Ganges River is during the winter months (November to February), when the weather is calm and peaceful.