Still Want To Visit Varanasi During Floods? These 5 Safety Tips Could Save Your Life

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Varanasi, the spiritual capital of India, is a city where time seems to stand still. The air is thick with incense, chants echo from ancient temples, and the ghats of the Ganga offer a connection to something deeper than the physical world. But what happens when this sacred city is submerged in floodwaters?

Despite rising water levels and red alert warnings, pilgrims, photographers, and curious travelers continue to make their way to Varanasi during Shravan and monsoon months. While the city's mystical pull remains unshaken, the risks of venturing into flooded areas are real-and sometimes fatal.

If you're among those who are determined to travel to Kashi during the floods, here are five crucial safety tips you should follow.

1. Avoid The Ghats During Peak Flood Hours

The very soul of Varanasi lies in its ghats, but during floods, they become treacherous. The steps disappear under rising water, currents are unpredictable, and slippery moss turns them into danger zones.

Several pilgrims have reportedly lost balance or been swept away while trying to offer prayers at submerged ghats. Even experienced boatmen avoid certain ghats like Dashashwamedh and Assi when the Ganga is in spate.

Respect the river's power. Admire from a safe distance. Remember, there is no spiritual merit in risking your life.

2. Book Stays On Higher Ground

If you're traveling to Varanasi during floods, location is everything. Many budget stays near the ghats may be affected or even evacuated when the water level rises. Opt for accommodations near Godowlia, Bhelupur or Lanka-areas known to be safer and better connected during monsoon chaos.

Also, confirm your booking's flood safety arrangements. Power outages, waterlogging, and blocked roads are common, so look for places with backup generators and emergency protocols.

3. Avoid Street Food During Waterlogging

Varanasi's street food is iconic-from crispy kachoris to creamy malaiyyo. But during floods, water contamination and unhygienic conditions spike dramatically. Drain water seeps into local shops, increasing the risk of foodborne illnesses, jaundice, and stomach infections.

Opt for cooked meals from hygienic kitchens and carry mineral water. This may not be the time to explore the best chaat corners near Chowk-your gut will thank you later.

4. Follow Local Advisory And Crowd Movements

Don't rely solely on Google Maps or travel apps-stay tuned to local news channels, WhatsApp community groups, and even your hotel manager's instructions. The local administration often releases alerts about areas to avoid or where water levels are critically high.

Many parts of Varanasi's old city can become impassable during heavy rain or sewer overflow. Following locals or large crowd movement may guide you to safer exits or alternate routes.

5. Carry A Monsoon Travel Emergency Kit

Floods come with unpredictable power cuts, medical emergencies, and transport delays. Always keep a small emergency kit handy with waterproof pouches, an extra mobile charger or power bank, basic medicines, electrolyte sachets, a raincoat or poncho, and a flashlight.

If you're traveling with elders or children, make sure their essential medications and ID cards are easily accessible. In an emotionally overwhelming place like Varanasi, you don't want to be stuck with no plan when waters rise.

So, Should You Still Go?

For many, Varanasi isn't just a destination-it's a calling. But even faith flourishes when paired with wisdom. Shravan is one of the most spiritually potent times to visit Kashi, but it also brings some of the city's toughest terrain. Travel smart. Respect nature. And remember, the divine can be found even in waiting.