Travel Varanasi | Old Ghats, Delicious Cuisines, and Must-Dos

Travel Varanasi | Old Ghats, Delicious Cuisines, and Must-Dos

Varanasi, one of the oldest living cities in the world, is a vibrant tapestry of spirituality, culture, and history. A person must travel Varanasi, once in their lifetime. Situated on the banks of the holy Ganges River, this city is a spiritual heaven for millions of pilgrims and a cultural spot for all the wanderlusts. From its mesmerizing Ghats and delicious cuisine, Varanasi offers a unique experience that captivates one’s soul. Here’s a detailed blog to make the most of your next trip to Varanasi. 

Travel Varanasi: Know The Best Time to Visit 

Varanasi’s charm remains undiminished throughout the year but the period from October to March is the ideal period for exploring this beautiful place. 

Travel Varanasi

From the duration of October to November, the monsoon retreats and the weather becomes pleasant to visit. This month also welcomes the grand festival of Dev Deepawali. 

From the duration of December to January, the city undergoes the winter season. This winter season brings misty mornings, along with chilly evenings. It is normal for the temperature to drop down to 9 degrees Celsius. It is a peak time for the tourists. 

From the duration of February to March, the weather turns warmer, ranging from 15 degrees Celsius to 25 degrees Celsius. These months offer an ideal climate for exploring the city of Varanasi. Hence, find your ideal month and plan accordingly to travel Varanasi. 

Before you plan to visit Varanasi, you must have a detailed itinerary or a plan. So this ensures that you don’t miss out on the important destinations while also enjoying the trip. With Swadeshi Sanchaar, you can expect to get a complete package of a Varanasi trip. Let’s check some of the things to expect during your Varanasi trip:

Top Things To Do In Varanasi

Exploring the city without visiting temples remains unsatisfactory. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and remains a must-visit site. It is located on the western bank of the river Ganges. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple attracts millions of devotees annually. Moreover, you should mentally prepare yourself to face a splendid amount of crowd along with a deep spiritual atmosphere. 

The Ramnagar Fort, built in 1750 by Kashi Naresh Raj Balwant Singh is a historical charm. It is situated on the eastern banks of the river Ganges. This sandstone marvel reflects the aesthetics of the Mughal era. Inside, you’ll find Veda Vyasa Temple, a museum showcasing royal artifacts, and the revered Dakshin Mukhi Hanuman Temple. It is an absolute delight to watch the Tulsi Ghat from the fort. If you love history and traditions, you should visit this place when you travel Varanasi. 

The ghats of Varanasi are the lifelines of this city. Each Ghat has its own unique story and significance. Those seeking spiritual awakening often travel Varanasi to visit its ancient temples. 

  • Dashashwamedh Ghat: It is one of the busiest and the most sacred ghats, known in the city of Varanasi. It is the same ghat, where the famous Ganga Aarti takes place, every evening. Many pilgrims travel Varanasi to witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat. 
  • Manikarnika Ghat: This ancient cremation site is richly tied to the sacred belief of the Hindu religion, about attaining Moksha (Liberation). 
  • Assi Ghat: This ghat is a serene retreat to look at. It is favored by students and long-term visitors. It is known for its peaceful Subah-e-Banaras Aarti at sunrise. 
  • Harishchandra Ghat: This ghat is another famous cremation site of the city with some historical significance. It is named after the king, Harishchandra. 
  • Man Mandir Ghat: It is famous for its royal architecture and Maharaja Jai Singh built this ghat during the 17th century. 

The Ganges River is considered one of the most sacred and purest rivers. Hindus believe that taking a dip in the Ganges can remove all their sins, and can purify them spiritually. With over 84 ghats, along the river, you’ll find countless pilgrims performing rituals and chanting prayers at dawn. 

A boat ride on the Ganges, during sunsets is the most magical experience in Varanasi. Watch as the river glows with the reflections of the setting sun and the flickering lights of the ghats. You can also enjoy the live performances of people singing the local folk songs. 

Shop for Banarasi sarees, jhumkas, brassware, wooden toys, and handcrafted souvenirs at the bustling markets of Varanasi near the Vishwanath Temple and Chowk. The street shopping is worth it. 

Also Read: Exploring The World With Swadeshi Sanchaar

Varanasi is a paradise for food lovers. This city offers a mix of traditional and modern flavors. Here are some must-try, food items: 

The Food of Varanasi
  1. Banarasi Paan: The worldwide famous Banarasi Paan, is a unique mouth freshener and a digestive treat. It is made with betel leaves and an array of ingredients. The extremely flavourful bite, can’t be missed. 
  1. Choora Matar: A local take on Poha, Choora Matar is a delightful dish of flattened rice cooked with green peas, ghee, spices, raisins, and saffron. Pair it up with a hot cup of masala tea to give it a “desi tadka”, as they say. 
  1. Laaiya Channa: If you’re fond of bhel puri, then you’ll enjoy Laaiya Channa. It is made with boiled chickpeas, onions, tomatoes, peanuts and lots of masalas. It is a popular tea-time snack with a tangy twist and is extremely flavourful. 
  1. Malaiyyo: A winter specialty, Malaiyyo is a creamy dessert made up of milk frothing, flavored with saffron and cardamom, and garnished with pistachios and almonds. It tastes the best when it is served in an earthen pot. 
  1. Banarasi Lassi: Unlike lassis found elsewhere, Banarasi lassi is a desert-like drink. It is topped with rabri, saffron, and dry fruits. Available in various flavors like mango and gulkand, it is rich in taste and is a refreshing treat. 

Traveling to Varanasi is not just visiting the city, but it is experiencing a different dimension of existence. Every traveler who enjoys visiting places that are of religious significance should consider touring Varanasi. It is home to culture, temples, religion, Ghats, food, and more. Varanasi is a memorable travel destination and never fails to attract people from all over the world because of its ethereal beauty and serenity.

Visiting Varanasi is a sacred adventure. Whether one comes here in search of spirituality or a mere tour, the religious city truly enchants with its cultural and spiritual realms. So, pack up your bags and get ready to explore the city where life and death coexist harmoniously.

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