Varanasi in January 2025: Weather, Temperature & Travel Guide

TL;DR: January is the #1 best month to visit Varanasi. Expect daytime temperatures of 18–24°C (64–75°F), cool nights at 8–12°C (46–54°F), and magical morning fog over the Ganges. Don't miss Makar Sankranti (January 14) – the highlight festival with 100,000+ devotees and colorful kite flying.

Quick Facts: Varanasi Temperature & Weather in January

Aspect	Details
Daytime Temperature	18–24°C (64–75°F)
Nighttime Temperature	8–12°C (46–54°F)
Average Temperature	14–15°C (57–59°F)
Weather Pattern	Cool, dry, and pleasant
Rainfall	Minimal (1–3 rainy days)
Best Time to Visit	Mid-morning to late afternoon (9 AM–4 PM)
Sunrise Time	~6:50 AM
Sunset Time	~5:30 PM
Season Status	PEAK TOURIST SEASON ✓

Is January the Best Time to Visit Varanasi?

YES. January is the #1 best month to visit Varanasi.

January offers the perfect combination of three factors that make it superior to any other month:

1. Ideal Weather ✓

• Cool, crisp mornings (8–12°C) with mystical fog rolling over the Ganges
• Pleasantly warm afternoons (18–24°C) without sweat or humidity
• Clear skies perfect for photography and outdoor activities
• Zero monsoon concerns (dry season)

Why this matters: Unlike December (can be slightly chilly at night), January has warmer afternoons while maintaining that refreshing coolness. Unlike February (slightly warmer), January's fog creates magical morning aarti experiences.

2. Major Festivals & Events ✓

Makar Sankranti (January 14, 2025) – The Harvest & Kite Festival

• Holy Ganga baths at sunrise (5:30–6:30 AM) with 100,000+ devotees
• Kite flying competitions from noon onwards on ghats and rooftops
• Temple celebrations across the city
• Colorful skies filled with traditional kites
• Traditional Tilkut sweets and seasonal delicacies

What to expect:

• Crowds are manageable early morning, peak at midday
• Photography opportunities: unmatched spiritual energy
• Evening calm after celebrations for peaceful aarti viewing
• Locals are celebratory and welcoming

3. Perfect Timing for Activities ✓

• Morning boat rides: Crisp air, clear visibility, fewer tourists (6–7 AM)
• Temple visits: Comfortable walking in narrow lanes
• Ghat exploration: No heat exhaustion, full day of sightseeing possible
• Evening Ganga Aarti: Comfortable standing room, perfect lighting for photos
• Sarnath day trip: Easy 30-minute taxi ride, comfortable exploration

What to Wear in Varanasi in January: Complete Packing Guide

For Women

Daytime (9 AM–4 PM) — Layering is Key:

• Base layer: Cotton t-shirt or light kurta
• Middle layer: Lightweight cardigan, shrug, or thin sweater
• Outer layer: Light jacket or fleece (optional if sunny)
• Bottoms: Loose cotton pants, cotton skirt, or leggings
• Footwear: Closed-toe walking shoes, socks
• Accessories: Scarf/dupatta (cultural respect + warmth)

Evenings (5 PM onwards) — Add Warmth:

• Warm shawl or stole (essential for Ganga Aarti)
• Full-length pants or maxi skirt
• Light sweater or thin jacket
• Closed shoes with socks

Sacred Site Dress Code (Temples & Ghats):

• Cover shoulders and knees (always)
• Wear scarf to cover head if required
• Loose, modest clothing
• NO shorts, tank tops, or sleeveless tops
• Avoid bright/neon colors (temples prefer muted tones)

Recommendations:

• Kurta + leggings (most practical & culturally appropriate)
• Maxi dress or long skirt + cardigan
• Layers > thick clothes (flexibility for temperature changes)

For Men

Daytime:

• Cotton shirt or t-shirt
• Long pants or cotton jeans
• Light jacket (optional)
• Closed-toe shoes, socks

Evenings:

• Add a sweater or warm jacket
• Long pants

Sacred Sites:

• Long pants (no shorts)
• Shirt with sleeves
• NO leather (some temples prohibit)

Essential Items to Pack

Must-Have:

• ✓ Warm jacket or fleece
• ✓ Long scarf/shawl (doubles as head cover & warmth)
• ✓ Socks (for cold mornings)
• ✓ Closed-toe walking shoes
• ✓ Light sweater or cardigan
• ✓ Lip balm & moisturizer (dry air)

Highly Recommended:

• ✓ Sunscreen (winter sun is deceptive)
• ✓ Sunglasses
• ✓ Umbrella (rare but possible light rain)
• ✓ Medications (dry cough, throat lozenges)
• ✓ Water bottle (1.5L per person)
• ✓ N95 mask (air quality can dip on non-windy days)
• ✓ Power bank (cold batteries drain faster)
• ✓ Ear muffs/cap (river wind cuts through you on boat rides)

Optional:

• Hat/beanie for early mornings
• Hand gloves if you're very cold-sensitive
• Thermal innerwear
• Thick woolen socks (for barefoot temple visits)

Fog Survival Guide: Avoid Travel Disruptions

January brings dense fog across the Indo-Gangetic plain, peaking between January 1–15. This can seriously disrupt your travel plans.

Flight Delays Are Real

If your flight is scheduled to land before 11:00 AM, there's a 60% chance it will be delayed or diverted to Lucknow/Delhi.

Pro Tips:

• Book flights landing after 12:00 PM – fog usually burns off by noon
• Keep taxi backup ready for fog-diverted arrivals
• Our drivers track flight statuses in real-time

Train Delays

Trains from Delhi (Vande Bharat, Shiv Ganga Express) are often delayed 6–10 hours in January due to fog.

Backup Plan: If your train gets cancelled, intercity cab services can pick you up from Prayagraj, Ayodhya, or Lucknow.

The Barefoot Temple Challenge

Here's what most guides won't tell you: temple stone floors are freezing in January. You must remove shoes at Kashi Vishwanath and other temples, and your feet will go numb within minutes.

Insider Tip: Pack thick woolen socks – you're allowed to wear socks inside temples, and they're a lifesaver.

Safety Tips for Seniors & Families

Slippery Ghats

Morning dew + fog makes stone steps dangerously slippery.

Recommendations:

• Avoid steep stairs at smaller ghats
• Stick to Dashashwamedh or Assi Ghat – wider, cleaner steps
• Hold handrails where available
• Wear shoes with good grip

For Elderly Travelers

The Old City lanes are long and confusing. For seniors:

• Hire a Tempo Traveller for comfortable waiting between temple visits
• Plan shorter walking distances
• Schedule rest breaks between activities
• Carry a small folding stool if needed

January Events & Festivals

Makar Sankranti (January 14, 2025) — The Highlight

What is Makar Sankranti?

Ancient Hindu festival marking the Sun's transition from Sagittarius to Capricorn, symbolizing the end of winter and start of longer days. Celebrated as harvest festival across India.

In Varanasi Specifically:

Early Morning (4:30–7:00 AM) — Spiritual Dimension:

• 5:30–6:30 AM: Holy Ganga baths (Ganga Snaan)

  • 100,000+ devotees gather at major ghats
  • Priests perform special ceremonies
  • Sacred hymns and mantras
  • Perfect for spiritual photography
  • Taxi tip: Arrive by 5:00 AM to get good ghat spot

• Temple Activities (7:00–9:00 AM):

  • Special prayers at Kashi Vishwanath Temple
  • Surya Puja (sun worship)
  • Offering of tilkut (sesame brittle) and jaggery
  • Traditional breakfast at nearby dhabas

Late Morning–Afternoon (10:00 AM–4:00 PM) — Recreational:

• Rooftop Kite Flying Competition:

  • Colorful kites fill the skies above ghats
  • Traditional manjha (glass-coated string) battles
  • "Pappu Kata!" (Kite cut!) celebrations
  • Kites fall onto streets—children collect them
  • Best viewing: Dashashwamedh or Assi Ghat rooftops

• Street Food & Markets:

  • Tilkut (sesame-jaggery brittle)
  • Chikhalwali (fried snack)
  • Malaiyo (winter dessert with rabri cream)
  • Puffed rice & sweets
  • Kite vendors with manjha & string

Evening (5:30–7:00 PM):

• Ganga Aarti (normal ceremony, more festive atmosphere)
• Bonfire gatherings (rare, but sometimes organized)
• Celebrations on ghats

Best Things to Do in Varanasi in January

Morning Activities (6:00–9:00 AM)

1. Sunrise Boat Ride on Ganges ✓✓✓

• Start: 6:00 AM sharp
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours
• Cost: ₹300–500 per person
• Taxi from hotel: ₹400–600 each way
• Why: Crystal-clear visibility, few tourists, crisp air, spiritual atmosphere, priests perform aarti
• Pro tip: Bring warm jacket; river breeze is chilly

2. Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat (Evening 6:30 PM, but morning option too)

• Early morning ceremony: 5:30 AM (less crowded)
• Evening ceremony: 6:30 PM (more spectacular)
• Duration: 45 minutes–1 hour
• Best January experience: Arrive by 5:15 AM for reserved seating (costs ₹100–200)

3. Temple Visits

• Kashi Vishwanath Temple: 6:00–9:00 AM (empty)
• Durga Temple: 7:00 AM (peaceful)
• Sankat Mochan Temple: 7:30 AM
• Pro tip: Avoid 9 AM–5 PM (crowds), bring covered shoes

Daytime Activities (9:00 AM–5:00 PM)

4. Ghats Walking Tour

• Explore Dashashwamedh, Assi, Manikarnika, Scindia Ghats
• Time: 2–3 hours
• Weather: Perfect in January
• Local guide: ₹500–800
• Taxi: ₹150–200 one-way

5. Sarnath Buddhist Site Day Trip ✓✓

• Distance: 12 km (20 minutes by taxi)
• Taxi cost: ₹400–500 round-trip
• Time needed: 4–5 hours
• Must-see: Dhamek Stupa, Sarnath Museum
• January advantage: Cool, easy walking, no heat

6. Street Food Walking Tour

• Best time: 10:00 AM (after morning activities)
• Must-try January specialties:
  • Malaiyo (creamy winter dessert)
  • Tilkut (sesame-jaggery)
  • Puris with aloo (potato)
  • Warm lassi
• Duration: 1–2 hours

7. Shopping in Old City

• Silk scarves, shawls
• Traditional jewelry
• Brassware & handicrafts
• Best streets: Thatheri Bazaar, Vishwanath Lane
• Timing: 10 AM–4 PM (avoid rush)

Evening Activities (4:00 PM–8:00 PM)

8. Ganga Aarti at Sunset

• Time: 6:30 PM
• Duration: 45 minutes–1 hour
• Seats: Book in advance (₹100–200)
• Standing: Free, arrive by 5:30 PM
• January benefit: Comfortable standing, clear evening, perfect photography

9. Evening Stroll Along Ghats

• 5:00–6:00 PM (before aarti)
• Photography: Golden hour light
• Street musicians & performers
• Peaceful atmosphere (pre-aarti)

10. Rooftop Yoga & Meditation

• Available at most hotels
• Time: 5:30–6:30 AM or 6:00–7:00 PM
• Cost: ₹300–500
• Book in advance

3-Day January Itinerary (Perfect for First-Time Visitors)

Day 1: Arrival & Evening Exploration

• Arrive at airport/railway station
• Book taxi to hotel (₹600–800)
• Afternoon: Rest, explore nearby market
• Evening (5:00 PM): Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat
• Dinner: Traditional thali at riverside restaurant

Day 2: Spiritual Immersion (Makar Sankranti if Jan 14)

• 4:30 AM: Wake up
• 5:30–6:30 AM: Holy Ganga bath or sunrise boat ride (₹400)
• 7:00 AM: Temple visit (Kashi Vishwanath)
• 9:00 AM: Breakfast, rest
• 10:00 AM–2:00 PM: Kite flying on rooftops (if Makar Sankranti)
• 2:00–5:00 PM: Street food tour & shopping
• 6:30 PM: Ganga Aarti (evening ceremony)

Day 3: Extended Exploration

• 6:00–7:30 AM: Sunrise boat ride
• 8:00 AM: Breakfast
• 10:00 AM–3:00 PM: Sarnath day trip by taxi (₹500 round-trip)
  • Dhamek Stupa
  • Sarnath Museum
  • Chaukhandi Stupa
  • Buddhist temples
• 4:00 PM: Return to Varanasi
• 5:00–6:00 PM: Ghats walking tour
• 6:30 PM: Final Ganga Aarti
• Evening: Packing, departure prep

Total estimated cost: ₹2,000–3,500 per person (excluding hotel & flights)

Advantages of January vs. Other Months

Factor	January	December	February	November
Temperature	14–22°C (BEST)	12–20°C	16–25°C	18–28°C
Crowds	Peak but manageable	Heavy (holiday season)	HEAVIEST	Heavy
Festivals	Makar Sankranti 🎉	None	Maha Shivratri	Dev Deepawali
Morning Fog	Excellent	Less	Rare	Rare
Prices	High but worth it	HIGHEST	Very high	Moderate
Best Activities	All	All	All	Festival-heavy
Comfort Level	10/10	9/10	8/10	9/10

Verdict: January is superior to December because:

1. Warmer afternoons (less chilly than Dec)
2. Makar Sankranti festival adds cultural depth
3. Manageable crowds (peak but not chaos)
4. Better for all activities (temples, shopping, boating)
5. Prices are reasonable (not as inflated as Dec 20-Jan 1)

Getting Around Varanasi in January

Airport/Railway Station to Hotel

• Taxi (RECOMMENDED): ₹600–800, 30 minutes
• Why taxi: Fixed fare, safe, no negotiation

Boat Rides (Ganga)

• Cost: ₹300–500 per person
• Duration: 45 min–2 hours
• Best time: 6:00 AM (sunrise)
• Book at: Ghats directly or hotel

Day Trips

• Sarnath (12 km): Taxi ₹400–500 round-trip
• Vindhyachal (40 km): Taxi ₹600–800 round-trip
• Prayagraj (120 km): Full day, ₹1,200–1,500

Within City

• Auto-rickshaw: ₹50–100 per trip
• Taxi: ₹200–300 per trip
• Walking: Best in old city (narrow lanes)

Book everything in advance: Hotels fill up quickly in January.

Hotels & Accommodation in January

Budget (₹1,000–2,000/night)

• Ashray Hostel, Shree Hari Apartments
• Small family-run guesthouses on ghats
• Trade-off: Noise from ghats, basic amenities

Mid-Range (₹2,500–5,000/night)

• Recommended: Ramesha Ghat Guest House, Yatri Guest House
• Good location, rooftop aarti viewing, decent comfort

Premium (₹5,000+/night)

• The Taj Gateway, India Gate Varanasi
• Luxury, excellent service, expensive

Book 2–3 weeks in advance for January.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How cold is January in Varanasi?

A: Not very cold. Daytime 18–24°C is pleasant. Nights 8–12°C require a jacket but not heavy winter gear. Much milder than northern Indian cities like Delhi.

Q: Is Makar Sankranti worth experiencing?

A: Absolutely. It's a once-in-a-lifetime cultural event. The spiritual energy of 100,000+ devotees + colorful kites create an unforgettable experience.

Q: Can I skip the early morning activities?

A: You can, but you'll miss the best part. Early mornings (5:30–7:00 AM) are when Varanasi's spiritual soul shines. Late sleepers often regret it.

Q: What should I eat in January?

A: Seasonal specialties: Malaiyo (winter dessert), Tilkut (sesame brittle), Puris, warm lassi, sugarcane juice. Street food is safe if cooked in front of you.

Q: Is it safe to visit alone in January?

A: Yes. January's crowds mean more tourists and security. Stick to main ghats, avoid deserted lanes at night, keep valuables secure.

Q: Can I do Ganga Aarti twice (morning & evening)?

A: Yes! Morning ceremony is less crowded (5:30 AM), evening is more spectacular (6:30 PM). Many tourists do both.

Q: Can I take a holy dip in the Ganga in January?

A: Yes, but the water is around 15°C. Take the dip around 12:00 PM when the sun is out, rather than at sunrise.

Q: Is the Ganga Aarti time different in winter?

A: Yes! Because it gets dark early, the evening Aarti starts around 6:00 PM (instead of 7 PM in summer). Reach by 5:00 PM to get a good seat.

Q: Will fog affect my flight?

A: Likely, if flying before 11 AM. Book afternoon flights when possible, and keep a taxi backup plan for diversions.

Packing Checklist

• Warm jacket/fleece
• Long scarf (essential)
• Socks & closed shoes
• Thick woolen socks (for temples)
• Cardigan/sweater
• Sunscreen
• Lip balm & moisturizer
• Medications (throat lozenges)
• Modest clothing (shoulders/knees covered)
• Light layers for flexibility
• N95 mask
• Power bank
• Ear muffs/cap

Safety Tips

• Carry copies of important documents
• Use registered taxis, avoid unmarked ones
• Avoid walking alone late evening
• Keep valuables in hotel safe
• Drink bottled water only

Final Recommendation

January is THE BEST month to visit Varanasi.

Combine the spiritual depth of Makar Sankranti festival, perfect weather for exploration, manageable crowds, and iconic activities like sunrise boat rides and Ganga Aarti. Pack layers, book early, and prepare for a transformative experience.