Varanasi

वाराणसी

One of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities and Hinduism's holiest site, Varanasi sits on the sacred Ganges River where pilgrims come to bathe, pray, and perform ancient rituals. The chaotic maze of narrow lanes, burning ghats, boat rides at dawn, and spiritual energy create an intensely transformative travel experience.

Things to do

• Sunrise boat ride on the Ganges — Hire a private rowboat at dawn to witness pilgrims bathing and performing rituals while mist rises off the sacred river.
• Visit Manikarnika Ghat — Watch the cremation fires at Varanasi's holiest burning ghat, a sacred place where Hindus believe liberation is achieved; be respectful and keep distance.
• Explore Kashi Vishwanath Temple — Pay respects at one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, the most sacred shrine to Lord Shiva, located in the heart of the old city's narrow lanes.
• Wander the old city lanes — Navigate the labyrinthine alleys of Varanasi's medieval quarter, discovering hidden temples, ashrams, silk shops, and local life away from the main ghats.
• Evening aarti at Dasashwamedh Ghat — Witness the spectacular fire ritual performed by priests at sunset, with synchronized movements, chanting, and sacred flames honoring the Ganges.
• Visit Sarnath — Travel 12 km north to the birthplace of Buddhism where Buddha delivered his first sermon; explore ancient stupas and museums.
• Bharat Mata Temple — Climb five stories to view a unique marble relief map of India carved into the temple floor, offering spiritual and geographical perspective.

Food to try

• Kachori and jalebi — Crispy fried pastry pockets stuffed with spiced lentils paired with orange, syrup-soaked spiral sweets—a quintessential Varanasi breakfast.
• Banarasi paan — Betel leaf filled with areca nut, lime paste, and traditional ingredients, often with silver foil; Varanasi's iconic post-meal digestive.
• Chikhalwali (roasted chicken) — Tender marinated chicken cooked in traditional clay ovens, a specialty found in the narrow gullies and a savory local favorite.
• Lassi — Thick yogurt-based drink blended with fruit or spices and served ice-cold, perfect for cooling down in Varanasi's heat.
• Malaiyo — A winter dessert made from milk froth flavored with rabri, cardamom, and nuts, served only in cold months and unique to Varanasi.

Local customs & good to know

• Dress respectfully — Wear modest clothing covering shoulders and knees, especially near temples and ghats; remove shoes before entering shrines and be mindful of sacred spaces.
• Ask permission before photographing — Always request consent from pilgrims, sadhus, and families before taking photographs, particularly at cremation ghats where it is forbidden and deeply disrespectful.
• Follow ghat etiquette — Never step on or disrupt ritual spaces, avoid blocking pilgrims' paths to the water, and never touch or disrespect the Ganges despite its polluted state.
• Hire a knowledgeable guide — A local guide greatly enhances understanding of rituals, temple protocols, and hidden spiritual significance while helping navigate the confusing alleyways safely.