Varanasi
The street food of Varanasi is as vibrant and complex as the cities storied past... Known as one of the oldest living cities, Varanasi carries the essence of Aryan culture, which influences its predominantly vegetarian cuisine. While meat dishes are rare, exceptions exist due to the influence of Muslim communities.
Food is an integral part of the city’s cultural identity, blending traditional flavors with modern twists to cater to the diverse tastes of countless tourists who visit year-round. Exploring handpicked food spots and savoring signature dishes will leave your taste buds enchanted and provide an unforgettable experience in this timeless city.
Begin your day with a 5:30 AM pick-up from your hotel and head to the Ganges River for a serene sunrise boat ride. Witness the breathtaking beauty of the rising sun over the holy river, one of Varanasi’s most iconic experiences. Along the Ghats, observe the unique Hindu rituals and vibrant daily life, offering a glimpse into the city's spiritual essence. Rooted in Hindu mythology, Varanasi is believed to liberate the soul from the mortal body, and its Ghats epitomize the concept of divinity.
After the boat ride, take a leisurely walk through the intricate narrow lanes of Varanasi’s Old City. This maze of streets, lined with ancient temples, traditional homes, and bustling bazaars, captures the city’s timeless charm and cultural richness.
At 10:00 AM, stop for breakfast (at your own expense), then continue to Banaras Hindu University (BHU). Established in 1916, BHU boasts Asia’s largest university campus and is home to the magnificent Vishwanath Temple (Birla Temple), a stunning replica of the original Vishwanath Temple. Marvel at the architectural splendor and soak in the vibrant academic atmosphere.
Explore the Monkey Temple, also known as the Durga Temple, renowned for its unique architecture and bustling surroundings. Capture the dynamic street life, from lively markets and chai stalls to the rhythmic flow of daily activities in this ancient city.
Visit the Bharat Mata Temple, celebrated for its remarkable marble relief map of the Indian subcontinent. Learn about Varanasi’s legendary silk weaving tradition, an art form passed down through generations, and witness the intricate craftsmanship behind this iconic fabric.
This journey through Varanasi combines spirituality, history, and culture, offering an unforgettable experience of the city’s essence.
Afternoon
Embark on a culinary adventure in Varanasi, a city celebrated for its rich and ancient food culture. A visit to Varanasi is incomplete without savoring its delectable local cuisine, and this specially curated food crawl is designed to delight your taste buds and leave you with unforgettable memories of the city's flavors.
Savor Authentic Delicacies: Indulge in over six mouthwatering and authentic dishes of Varanasi. Perfect for food lovers, this walking tour is a must-try experience—one you’ll cherish long after your visit.
Explore Iconic Food Spots: Wander through the historic lanes of Kashi, visiting some of the city's oldest and most famous food establishments.
Observe talented artisans expertly create renowned sweets and a variety of other delicacies before your eyes.
Discover Culinary Heritage: Gain a deeper appreciation of Varanasi’s food culture, learning about the history, traditions, and influences that shaped its unique cuisine.
Evening: Proceed to Ganga Aarti
After the delightful food tour, continue your journey by witnessing the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti, an awe- inspiring ritual that perfectly captures the spiritual essence of Varanasi.Ganga Aarti: -
In the evening, drive to the banks of the Ganges and board a private boat to witness the captivating Aarti ceremony, followed by a glimpse of the cremation rituals. The Aarti, a traditional Hindu ritual, involves offering light to deities accompanied by devotional songs sung in their praise. Hindus worship the Ganges as a goddess, and each evening, the Aarti ceremony is held at the Dashashwamedh Ghat in her honor.
From the ghats or the serene waters aboard your boat, experience this majestic and spiritually uplifting event. The ceremony is a visual and auditory marvel, featuring a meticulously choreographed ritual by several priests. The harmonious sounds of bells, drums, cymbals, and Sanskrit mantras fill the air as flower petals are offered in reverence to the sacred river.
Following this unforgettable experience, return to your hotel