Varanasi (also known as Banaras, Benaras or Kashi) is one of the oldest living city in India. Named after the two rivers Varuna and Asi Rivers and is known for its famous Ghats and the fascinating stories.
The city where life and death co-exist. The city where the eternal flames at Dasaswamedh Ghats is still a mystery. The city where death is also a celebration.
There is no other place in the world where one can find a place which is considered as “THE LAST STOP“, the city where people flock in numbers to die and attain salvation. It is one soulful city which has to be on your list, no matter whether you live in India or are visiting India. The city is varied, colorful and bewildering.
(READ: Life & People of Banaras)
Planning a visit to Varanasi soon, then we bring you an ultimate guide to top things to do in Varanasi.
– Subah-e-Banaras –
In Varanasi, there is a tranquility amidst the chaos and it cannot be better experienced than starting your day at the crack of the dawn. Absorb and feel the divine energy of the Vedic Chants at the Assi ghat before the sunrise.
Take a boat ride on the mighty Ganges. As the boat glides on the calm water, it is a feast to watch the different scenes unfold along the many ghats. People taking dips in the Ganges to wash away their sins, priests or sadhus performing rituals along the ghats, people taking a bath or washing their clothes and dead bodies being cremated. The boat ride is truly a unique experience in itself.
Best Time for the Boat Ride: 5:00 AM to 8:00 AM
– Get lost in the bylanes of Varanasi –
Varanasi is a city that is full of unexpected surprises at every nook and cranny and the one thing that ranks high on “Things to Do In Banaras” is getting lost in the maze of narrow bylanes and unearth those unexpected finds.
We highly recommend to keep your eyes open for the little things that aren’t on any list and one can easily miss them with a blink of an eye. The never-ending lanes and bylanes are packed with people pouring out onto the street from every corner and cattle lazing on the streets.
Each lane branches off to countless street creating a never-ending maze. Explore this maze at your pace and uncover those small things that make Varanasi unique. From the aroma of the hot jalebi from a small shop to the woodwork of a local craftsman, a tucked-away salon in an old building that seems to have been frozen for centuries, the zigzagged wires hanging on top of the streets and people busy with their afternoon siesta, Varanasi has a charm of its own.
– Binge on Food –
Any visit to the city is incomplete if you don’t get to sample to your heart’s content the varied street food that is on offer at Varanasi. The city is famous for its tea, lassi, and sweets.
Kachauri is quite famous. The ones sold on the Ghats and near the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple (Kachauri Gali to be more precise) are pretty good. Kachauri’s are a must for morning breakfasts and evening snacks.
The other important accompaniment of a typical breakfast is hot jalebis, cutting chai ( tea ) or thick lassi served in a Kulhar (earthen pot) topped with copious amounts of malai (cream). Other must-try items are Thandaai with a special add-on — freshly ground bhang, Banarasi Paan, woodfire pizza, various types of chaats like Tamatar ( tomato) chaat, paneer ( cottage cheese ) to name a few.
– Stroll along the ghats –
Varanasi has 87 ghats and each ghat is unique and different from the others. Most of them are used for rituals and bathing while some are specifically used for cremation. Every ghat in this city has its own story to tell. The ghats are flanked by temples, forts, old buildings and palaces which have now been turned into luxury resorts. These ghats are a photographer’s delight with so many things to capture. Some of the important ghats that you shouldn’t miss are:-
- Assi Ghat — The ghat where the mighty Ganges meets the river Assi. Used by pilgrims for bathing before worshipping Lord Shiva, in the form of a Linga, under a peepal tree which is located nearby.
- Dashashwamedh Ghat — Legend has it that Lord Brahma sacrificed 10 horses here and hence the name Dashashwamedh ( Medh -sacrifice, das – 10, Aswa -horses ) ghat. It is the main ghat of Varanasi and is close to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. The Gangi Arti also happens on this ghat.
- Chet Singh Ghat — The ghat has a beautiful fort and stands testimony to the war between Maharaja Chet Singh and the Britishers where the former lost the battle.
- Manikarnika Ghat — A ghat where life meets death, this is the ghat where the majority of the cremations take place. It is said that the cycle of rebirth is broken in this ghat and the souls attain salvation.
While you stroll from one ghat to the other, let the timeless grandeur and beauty of the place seep in enough to overload your senses and leave you wanting for more.
– Temple Out –
Varanasi is home to many temples but one temple stands out of the lot and is considered to be the holiest among all Hindu temples in the world, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. It is said that Varanasi belongs to Lord Shiva and no doubt that the Kashi Vishwanath is the most famous temple of Varanasi. It is also one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva.
Legend has it that Lord Brahma and Lord Vishu were fighting for their supremacy when Lord Shiva appeared before them at Kashi. He conjured an infinite column of fiery light piercing the three worlds. Lord Brahma in the form a swan went upwards and Lord Vishu in the form of a boar went downwards to find the end of the light. Lord Vishnu conceded defeat whereas Lord Brahma lied that he had found the end of the light. This is when Lord Shiva cursed Lord Brahma that he would never be worshiped again and that is why Lord Brahma is not worshiped in any idol form.
The other important temples that you should visit are:-
- Durga Temple
- Sankat Mochan Temple
- Kaal Bhairav Temple
- Tridev Temple
– Ramble around the local markets –
Explore the hidden gems in the many bylanes of Varanasi. Hawkers and shops selling all kinds of stuff from flowers to spices, from food to clothes, from metal to wood. You could spend hours exploring and wandering in the local markets. Don’t forget to pick some spices, wooden toys or Banarasi saree back home.
– Witness the Ganga Aarti –
Being at Varanasi and not witnessing the Ganga Aarti will make your visit incomplete 🙂 Everyday 5 to 7 priests perform Agni Pooja at the Dasaswamedh Ghat in the evening after the sun sets. The entire atmosphere is filled with incense, chants of Vedic hymns, music, a fire lamp, and the blowing off of the conch shells. It is a spectacle in itself with thousands of people gathered to witness the affair. You can watch the Ganga Aarti from the Ghats or from the boats. We would recommend viewing the Aarti from a boat as the views are spectacular.
( PS: Arrive a bit early to get the best spot. )
– Visit Ramnagar Fort –
This sandstone structure stands tall on the eastern bank of the Ganges opposite the Tulsi Ghat. The fort was built by Kashi Naresh Raja Balwant Singh in 1750 AD and has built in the Mughal style. The fort continues to be the home of Kashi Naresh (King of Varanasi) since the 18th century and houses a museum which has the royal collection that includes vintage Cars, royal palanquin, an armory of swords, old guns, ivory work and antique clocks on display.
– Day Trips –
Sarnath
Sarnath, the place where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon in 528 BC, is a great place for the archaeology buffs. The city lies just 10 km northeast of Varanasi and is great for day trips from Varanasi. You can see the Dharma Chakra, Ashokan Pillar, Chaukhandi Stupa. The archeological museum at Sarnath is also a must visit during the day trip, it houses a lot of the archeological finds of Sarnath.
Chunar Fort:
Perched atop Adri hill, Chunar Fort is one of the prime attractions of Chunar town which is 45km from the city of Varanasi. The fort is situated on the banks of the river Ganges at a height of 80-175 feet from the ground level and is spread across 34,000 square feet. The fort is replete with history and mythology. You can read more about it here. Chunar Fort makes for an excellent day trip from Varanasi.
( READ: Legends of Chunar Fort )
Allahabad :
Did you know that Allahabad was the capital of India for 1 day in the year 1858? We bet you did not know this. 🙂 Allahabad is approximately 120 km to the west of Varanasi and can be reached both by road and train and makes for a great day trip from Varanasi.
Must visit places apart from boat ride are –
Triveni Sangam – The place where the three rivers Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati meet, considered to the holiest of the points in Allahabad. It is said that a dip in the Sangam rides one of his/her sins.
Anand Bhawan – The ancestral home of the first Prime Minister of India which has now been turned into a splendid museum.
Allahabad fort which is said to have been built by Great Emperor Ashoka and still stands tall in all its glory.
There are many other things to do in Allahabad which cannot be squeezed in a day trip, so you might think of spending few extra days in Allahabad to experience its beauty.
– Offbeat Things to do in Varanasi –
There are many offbeat things that one can do in Varanasi, we have picked a few for you.
Visit an Akhada
Varanasi is a city famous for its Akhada ( wrestling arena) since time immemorial. There are many Akhada’s in the city where people still wrestle on the sand. A visit to a traditional Akhada would give you an insight of all the hard work and dedication that goes into the sport.
Handicrafts Trail
Varanasi is blessed with talented artisans. Be it meenakari work, woodwork or Banarasi silk sarees. There is no dearth of talent in the city.
If you have an artistic inclination, try visiting one of the many handlooms and know more about the art of making beautiful and expensive Banarasi saree. You will be amazed to see the process how threads are transformed to such amazing beautiful patterns.
You can also visit the wooden toy making workshops where you can see and know how a piece of wood is turned into a piece of art.
How To Reach Varanasi
Varanasi is a well-connected city from all major cities in India by air, bus and train.
Where To Stay
Affordable Luxury: Ramada Plaza JHV
You can check more Hotels in Varanasi – HERE
Note
If you do find our article useful in planning your trip, don’t forget to send a note/picture of your trip to us ( Email: thetalesofatraveler@gmail.com)
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Thank you so much Lonely Planet India and Uttar Pradesh Tourism for such an amazing trip.
Gabriela says
Great guide and beautiful pictures! India and Varanasi have been on my bucket list for years! 🙂
Frenchie on the road says
Visiting Varanasi seems to be a powerful experience! Definitely putting it on my bucket list. Thanks for this informative article and stunning photos!
Marlies says
India has never really spoke to me. It’s one of those countries that I don’t have the urge to visit but your pictures! Wow! I think I have to reconsider that thought!
Brittany says
The photos of Varanasi are beautiful! Your blog is so colourful! Really great content! Thanks for sharing!
Ticking the Bucketlist says
I really want to visit the akhada … especially after watching Dangal! How many days should one spend in Banaras? And did you have the paan?
Mohit Agarwal says
wow…that’s such an amazing guide to follow…every nook explained is such details
Ticker Eats The World says
Haven’t been to Varanasi but I am well aware of all that it has to offer. I liked how you not only covered all the main tourist and spiritual attractions but also wrote about the more simpler aspects of the city. The idea of just walking in the bylanes for one is something I’m sure give any visitor an indept look into the workings of the city. Obviously the Aarti and the boat rides and the food are a must.
Ivy says
India’s never been on the top of our list but wow, you may have convinced me with Varanasi. I love how its packed with history, colors, and culture. I do like a good chai! What exactly is a kachauri?
Sara Essop says
I have no doubt that a visit to Varanasi will be fascinating. The sunrise is beautiful and the food looks delicious (I love jalebi). By the way, I didn’t know that Allahabad was the capital of India for 1 day.
Only By Land says
Those Kachauris look tempting. I don’t fancy bathing in the water to clean my sins if there are bodies being cremated in there. Lots to do in Veranasi.
Anna says
Varanasi looks like an incredible ancient city! Your photos are amazing and really tell the story of your travels.
Kelly says
Varanasi looks
Incredible. I love the idea of waking up early and hearing the ominous chanting from the ghats. And I had never realized this was a city of such duality where people go to die. I really want to get up early and take a ferry on the Ganges. So cool!
Kelly says
Never heard of Varanasi before but I love the diuality of the city between life and death. Also like the idea of waking up early and listening to chanting from the ghats. So fun.
Raymond Carroll says
Great post! I’m off to Nepal in October (3rd visit). I’ve always wanted to visit India but have never quite managed it. After this visit to Nepal, I intend going to India for a few days; Varanasi has made our shortlist. This is a great guide. Bookmarked for future reference.
Ps I’ve saw cremations on the Basmati River in Kathmandu
Claire Summers says
This looks like a great place to visit. So much to do! I love the idea of going to see how the textiles are made. I have just learnt how to weave in the traditional Mayan way.
The Travel Ninjas says
I’m wowed by Varanasi. It would take weeks to fully enjoy this magical and historic place. I just bookmarked this post for future reference. It’s so filled with great info. I can’t remember it all. We plan on visiting India later this year and Varanasi is on our list for sure. Thanks for all the great info.
ADAM DOOLITTLE says
“The Last Stop” what an interesting title to have for a city. Had me thinking about what I would want my “last stop” to be if I had a choice in the matter. Wonderful post though full of details and absolutely stunning pictures. You got some really beautiful images here.
Clare says
It looks like such a great place to visit. There is loads to do and I am going to add it to my list for when I visit India next winter. The food too looks amazing and I can’t wait to try 🙂
Abigail says
I am slightly ashamed to admit it but this is the first time I’ve heard of Varanasi. But judging by your photos, it is as lovely as other more popular destinations in India. Those photos of the boat during sunset and houses on hills are just breathtaking!
Julianne says
I had heard of Varanasi before, but had never seen pictures. Your pictures of this magical place — wow! They’re incredible! You’ve packed so much great information into this post; it’s super informative and helpful. For example, I had no idea that it had 87 ghats! Will definitely add Varanasi to my future India itinerary.
Ling Ge says
Varanasi looks like a really interesting place! There’s just a plethora of things to do and see, and each one is as unique from the other. Your pictures also captures a great vibrancy of the city. Hopefully, I’ll be able to make a visit when I visit India in the future.
Diana - MVMT Blog says
Wow there is so much to do there. Great tip about taking the boat ride in the morning. I love your sunrise pic. I’d love to try the food there too. Their breakfast options sound particularly appetizing to me. Thanks for sharing!
Bhushavali says
Can you believe I haven’t been to Varanasi yet???!!! I have to go. I really have to go!!! The handicraft trail would be my main trail!!!
Bethanny Sudibyo says
Ahhh! You make me miss Varanasi so much. It was my favorite city when I visited India. I really love the vibe there! You are right, there are so many artisans there. I bought my mom a cashmere blanket, it’s so warm and beautiful. They also taught me how to test between the fake and the real materials!
Sanne - Spend Life Traveling says
I have heard such great stories about Varanasi and your pictures really make me wish I had gone there when I was in India! Beautiful!
Niranjan says
Comprehensive post!
Julie Cohn says
What a beautiful destination and I love all the photos.
neha says
This is a very comprehensive list of things to do in Varanasi. I have never got a chance to visit here. To me it appears as a chaotic religious-political town. But I also love the ghats, the ganga, the mornings on a roof of a house in one of those streets and the sweets
Only By Land says
Varanasi has end less things to do. I’d like the idea of waking up early and listening to the humming down from the ghats. Also for the chance to see that beautiful sunrise from the famous Ganges. I remember the small path ways and often coming up against a cow!
Tara says
Wow, you really covered everything to see and do in Varanasi! I would love to check out the temples, and of course, eat some of the famous street food.
Abhinav Singh says
What a beautiful blog. I was born in Varanasi but never lived there. Years later I visited the city as an adult, on my birthday and felt a strange connection with the city. Your blog makes me want to go and explore it again.
Debra Schroeder says
Varanasi sounds amazing. Jalebis – just watched the movie, “Lion” the other night and he talks about Jalebis. 🙂
Sheena says
Varanasi is one of the most interesting places I’ve visited. The Ganga Aarti was a fascinating ceremony (many spectators) though I wish I got the chance to do a sunrise boat tour, I don’t remember the exact reason but it was something to do with it being dangerous. So many places here I didn’t visit, due back for another trip I think!
Suruchi says
This is such a compiled up post. Everything to do and see in Varanasi. I love those handicrafts and Sarees. Have heard a lot about Arti at Ghats but still have to experience it. hopefully will soon visit this beautiful place.
melody pittman says
India is such a diverse landscape. I hope to visit there over the next few years though I would have the hardest time deciding on which part to visit first. Varanas looks inviting and I love all of the topics you focused on. I want to do it all!
averagepeopleamazingtravel.com says
We have never heard of Varanasi before, which is pretty strange considering how amazing it looks. We are definitely adding this to the travel list, what a great article about a great place.
Wanderlust Vegans says
Walking through the markets sounds like a goodtime. I bet there is all kinds of great stuff in Varanasi’s markets.
Shobha says
I didn’t realise that there were so many Ghats and Temples. I just assumed it was one main one and that’s where people worshipped. The pattern on that Benares sari is divine! The photos of Varanasi I’ve seen have made it look overwhelming with all the people and noise – your description made it sound much more manageable.
Sandy N Vyjay says
Your travel guide has gives a thorough understanding of Varanasi for the uninitiated. We really had a great time when we were there and want to get back again. Loved the evening boat cruise and binged on the great food, always remember the Kachoris and jalebis.
Jitaditya Narzary says
Wonderful summation of the delights of this ancient city. I’m ashamed to admit that Varanasi has eluded me so far… I need to make it to this city very soon. I am aware of most of the goodies Varanasi has to offer but I didn’t know that it had akhadas. The handicraft trail is also new to me.
Chiera says
Your pictures are absolutely stunning! Really bring Varanasi to life! It’s so interesting that people consider it the last stop, must hold some major spirituality 🙂 Thanks for sharing x
Lara Dunning says
I think tasting my way around Varanasi and seeing the Ganga Aarti would be at the top of my list of things to do. Thanks for all the great tips as I know very little about this city.
Sutee Dee says
The whole idea of the oldest living city is mind-blowing. No wonder there are so many stories and traditions! A whole another perspective on life to be among such old things.
Claire says
I’d never heard of Varanasi before, but it looks beautiful! I love wandering markets & sampling the local food, and the handicrafts are so colourful! I’d like to go to India one day, I’ll add this city to my list 🙂
Jackie Taylor says
The sunset photos are beautiful! Varanasi looks like an incredible place to visit. Thanks for sharing this!!!
Hassan says
love the food… whats a good time to visit?
Sudipto says
I so love this post of yours. Large photographs along with a lot of info. You have also mentioned Tamatar Chaat which is very rarely found in other places. Brahma is only worshipped in Pushkar
Nadine Cathleen says
Wow this is so beautiful! Never heard of Varanasi before but will have to add it to my travel bucket list. The cultural heritage seems super interesting and the scenic views look amazing! Varanasi, I will come and visit!
Kristina says
A city’s street food really is its heart. The kachauri look super tasty *__*. Ugh, now I’m hungry, hahaha. Gorgeous look at this city I’d never heard of!
WhereMonicaGoes says
This is definitely such an extensive guide in Varanasi! I like that you have covered almost everything here – thanks! I am afraid I would be templed out when i visit, so maybe will just cover the main ones if I am going to visit. But will for sure not say no to street food!
PRERNA SINHA says
My mom is from Banaras and I love the way you have potrayed the city. It’s amazing how you have made it sound so exotic :).
Soumya Nambiar says
Varanasi has been high on my bucket list for some time. After seeing your photos, I feel like eating hot jalebi and Kachori s. Varanasi is a city filled with so much soul that I would love to experience it for myself one day.
Sumit Vasudeva says
Varanasi city of gods there were so many Ghats and Temples around 87 ghats and each ghat is unique.
Vibeke Johannessen says
I love your photos. Looks like a very interesting place to visit. So unique culture and food. I have never been to India, but it has always been my dream to experience this ! I have to pin this for later so I remember this till when I go to India 😀 thank you for sharing this 😀
Dane says
I have read a fair bit about Varanasi since my Father went there and wont stop telling me how amazing it is but this is one of the best guides I have seen so far. I always try and be up before the sun, it is nice to know there will actually be something going on to take in. All of that food looks amazing! It makes me happy that it is almost completely vegetarian also! The handcrafts trail looks beautiful! I have always been so entranced by those big weaving machines!
Global Girl Travels says
What a comprehensive list you have put together! It’s always interesting to try out new things but the cultural show of Gaanga Arti has me curious. These performances provide a lot of insight into the local culture and history, which is always interesting to learn about. Also, the sight of the food and spices got me curious. I would love to sample those delicious treats.
Only By Land says
The view of the sunrise from the boat on the Ganges is incredible, well shot. I guess a food binge is required after being on the river early morning, there’s no better time to break fast! I love the Buddhist religion so to go on a day trip to Sarnath where he made his first sermon would be very interesting, thanks for teaching me that fact.
Gemma says
I’ve always wanted to visit Varanasi, but it’s just never happened on any of my trips to India. This has definitely reignited my wanderlust! I definitely want to try the street food now, yum!
Janine Good says
I thoroughly enjoyed visiting Varanasi. I went on a boat ride on the Ganges and it was very moving as it was a flower ceremony to honour the people. You are right that it is a great place to eat a lot of street food! I had so many Chai teas while there and lassis! It was nice supporting the street vendors and buying teas a few times per day. I was completely addicted to daal as well while there 🙂
Jackie Taylor says
What an informative guide! The local markets sound very nice, I would love to explore there one day. Also, I really enjoyed the sunset photos. 🙂
Christie says
Interesting info! I love that you recommend you take the boat ride between 5am and 8am… I love to get up early when traveling because (1) it’s gorgeous for photos, (2) it’s less busy and (3) you have more time to explore so I love to see it recommended. The markets sound awesome also! Great info – thanks.
Anita Hendrieka says
Varanasi was my favourite place in India. I would say that it has to be one of the most interesting places in the world. It’s beautiful, it’s ugly, it’s crazy, it’s calm – all at the same time!
Nat Deduck says
Wow ! So much to see, to taste and to appreciate! We haven’t been to India yet, but now, we can’t wait to visit! Looks like a great place to start with!
Megan Indoe says
My husband has been aching to go back to India with me for an entire year! His first trip he visited Varanasi and has told me all about it. I am getting more and more eager to go myself and this post is making me want to go even more! It sounds luke such an interesting place to experience!
Rhiannon says
Varanasi is a total bucket list destination for me! I was supposed to stop here when travelling overland from Nepal to India a few years ago but ended up on Gorakhpur instead which, you might agree, is way less interesting and culturally significant than Varanasi! I love gulebi so would really have to find some on the street when I visit, and wandering around the ghats just sounds so perfect.
Sanvi Kaushik says
varanasi an amazing place of Uttar Pradesh. You can taste the very delicious foods as well as the beautiful markets here. here i stayed at WelcomHeritage Jukaso Ganges HOtel near Manikarnika Ghat and enjoyed their services. I take a boat ride and saw a beautiful evening arti. you can see here for more Info- http://www.welcomheritagehotels.in/hotel-services/jukaso-ganges-varanasi#details
Nitin Rauthan says
Wow Lovely !!Varanasi looks like an incredible ancient city! Your photos are amazing and really tell the story of your travels.
Gayathri says
Wow! You have covered like everything! Varanasi is an amazing place
Danik says
Wowm Varanasi looks pretty amazing but that food! i so want to try that food right now. But seriously, I would love to visit this ancient city after reading this post. Love the way you have wonderfully written this post.
Suzanne says
We didn’t get a chance to visit Varanasi on our last trip to India. However, your post certainly sells the city very well! It’s very holy to Hindus and it’s one of the oldest cities in human civilization!
Joanna says
I have been to Varanasi and I was both amazed and shocked and I wonder if you left the main reason why the city is know for out for a reason. 🙂 Indeed there are so many things to do in Varanasi and one of my favorites was the boat ride at sunset and at sunrise (I did both). At sunrise the day was really foggy and it looked like it was floating on a mysterious river. I also loved the food, especially the sweets. Who can resist a warm bowl of gulab jamun?
Rachelle says
Varanasi sounds like a magical gem to visit! I love the idea of taking an early morning cruise along the Ganges and watching the sun rise. I think it’s the best time to see the city and to prepare for the rest of the day. I’m not a huge shopper, but I think that strolling along the food vendor stalls would be delicious!
interNATionalcaty says
My boyfriend and I were just talking about India and how he wants to go and I am on the fence. Your blog has definitely changed my mind. Varanasi looks beautiful
Wanderlust Vegans says
It looks like there is a lot of options for day trips around the area! I would also love to explore the local markets and take in that architecture. Varanasi looks like a great place to soak it all in.
Sherrie Allbritten says
Very interesting article on Varanasi. I have never been to India before so this post is filled with lots of references and information I’m not familiar with until now. Love the ghats that you describe, very interesting!
Jo Jo says
Looks like an amazing time. Seems to be very cultured and peaceful. You gave a very thorough review with a lot of amazing pictures. Thanks for sharing!
Abigail Sinsona says
I’ve read many blogs about India but this is new to me. It looks like a great place for day trips as there are plenty to see and do. I would have to commend you for your photos too – they are brilliant!
Jemma says
Love the architecture and the street food looks so delicious. Definitely adding India to my bucket list.
Suruchi says
Varanasi is on my list for a long time but my husband keeps avoiding the place because of being too rushy. I will love doing the day trips as well as buying beautiful handicrafts from there. Loved your pictures. They are amazing.
Marvi says
I love the way you describe Varanasi. It sounds really amazing and very rich in tradition and culture. I would definitely love to watch the Ganga Aarti too.
Tatum Skipper says
Sunsets and food and two of my favorite things to experience when traveling. India has so many amazing travel options it is really hard to choose which one to see and do!
Yukti says
Varanasi is really so eternal. i would love to have boat ride during sunrise and sunset. Also Ganga aarti would be another thing I would love to witness. Food tour in Varanasi is also great thing as I am a great food lover..
aareeba says
I have heard a lot good things about Varanasi and now I know why it is so popular in India. I really liked your pictures . Next time am in India, am surely gonna plan a visit to this beautiful place
Paula - Gone with the Wine says
Great photos! I would love to experience that area and the culture. Also the food. I love those colourful decorative things at the end, they are so beautiful.
Bruce Schinkel says
What a wealth of activities! I’ll definitely be adding exploring the bylanes and markets to my list for my next visit.
Jas says
I’m a bit embarrassed to say I have never heard of this city but it looks absolutely charming! I would for sure love to do the boat ride and try their kachauri, and am definitely adding this to my bucket list. Thanks for introducing me to such a beautiful destination!
Jeany says
Hi! There is that picture underneath the headline saying “temple out”. Can you tell me what that building is right next to the water that is tilted? Is that a temple? I was just curious because it is not straight.
The Tales of a Traveler says
Yes, it is a temple 🙂
laura says
Hi i am laura i read your blog which is really good. Your experience tells a lot about the relishing Indian cuisine and of Varanasi, a beautiful place in India.. Would love to visit it for the culture and delectable meals you mentioned. thanks for sharing///////////////////////////
Dominic says
Varanasi is such an amazing place – hard to to feel spiritual there. Great ideas of things to see in and around the area.
Manjulika Pramod says
This post has brought back lovely memories of our Varanasi trip together.
From the ghats to the markets, everything is so lively about Varanasi.
Is that my hand holding the Minakaari trinklet?
Krupa says
Amazing Guide.. all at one place info helps a lot .. and all the pics are mind blowing. Great stuff
Amrita Sen says
Ganga Arti in Varanasi is one of my favourites.. Infact, everything about Varanasi is so fascinating!
You have really captured Varanasi through your lens.
Mridula says
This reminds me that I have not been to Varanasi in ages! Beautiful post.
Archana Singh says
Varanasi is such a beautiful place. Every nook and corner is a photo opportunity. And all your pictures scream the same. Time for me to book a trip.
nargis says
wow beautiful images and nice information thanks for sharing this
lavit gupta says
wow stunning your all pictures and article too i really like your post and all.. Varanasi is such a beautiful place there are a lot of places for travelling once in life time i’ll surely go there….. thanks for sharing these kind of article thanks for sharing a lot………………….!
Sally says
Varanasi sounds exciting! Never been to India before and after reading this article I should put it pn my bucket lists. Seems like beautiful place, a package of spiritual journey, food lovers and the souvenirs hunter.
Yasha says
A beautiful city in the world, Thanks for sharing your experience…
Augustine says
Insightful tales of an attentive traveler! Never been there but I feel like I am tempted to plan a go. Thanks for the detailed article and tips on things to do.
Ranbir Kadian says
The Land of Temples that gives the optimum peace and help to give you relaxation and a very good pilgrimage tourist place.
Sonam Pandey says
Very nicely written post! Varanasi is very beautiful, spiritual and religious city in India.