Varanasi proximity to the Ganga means mosquitoes, especially during monsoon (July-September) and in the evenings near the river. Use repellent cream, wear long sleeves at dusk, and check your hotel for nets.
Prevention
Repellent cream
Odomos or Good Knight — apply at dusk. Rs.50-200 at any pharmacy.
Long sleeves at dusk
Mosquitoes are most active 5-7 PM.
Mosquito net
Check hotel room for nets. Carry a portable one if needed.
Avoid standing water
Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water near ghats.
If bitten
Wash the bite with soap, apply calamine lotion (Rs.30-80 at pharmacies), and take paracetamol if you develop fever. If fever persists for more than 2 days, see a doctor immediately — dengue testing is available at BHU Hospital.
High-risk areas
Near ghats at dusk
Most mosquitoes near the river.
Stagnant water areas
Avoid walking near puddles after rain.
Quick Takeaway
- ✓ Apply repellent at dusk.
- ✓ Wear long sleeves evening.
- ✓ Check hotel for mosquito nets.
- ✓ Paracetamol for fever.
- ✓ BHU Hospital for dengue test.
Quick Answers
How bad are mosquitoes?
Monsoon (Jul-Sep) is worst. Winter is better. Always use repellent near the river.
Is dengue a real risk?
Yes, especially in monsoon. If fever with body ache, get tested at BHU Hospital immediately.
Where to buy repellent?
Any pharmacy (Apollo, MedPlus) or even ghat shops. Rs.50-200.