| 6 mins read
Varanasi, formerly known as Kashi, is the spiritual capital of India. Urban settlement of the area began in 2000 BC, making it one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world. Located on the left bank of the Ganges, some of the major world religions like Buddhism and Hinduism flourished here, turning Varanasi into a heterogeneous amalgam of numerous cultures and religion today.
As you walk through the narrow alleys near Dashashwamedh Ghat, imbibe the chaos, colour, people, cows, snake charmers, and the unceasing cycle of life and death. Travelling to Varanasi can be intimidating, especially if you are going there for the first time. However, with an open mind and a bit of help from a local guide, you can enjoy your trip to the holy city!
But before you go ahead, here are a few important tips to make the most of your Varanasi trip:
1. Do not miss the Boat ride on the Ganges
You’ve got to see the famous ghats of Varanasi lit by a thousand lamps – schedule your boat ride during the evening aarti for this spectacle. If you choose to stay on land for the aarti, you could set sail in the evening, after the aarti or at dawn to experience peace and solace away from the chaos of the city. The boats are anchored at the Assi Ghat and the rides end at Manikarnika Ghat.
Expert Tip: Remember to negotiate the cost with the boatman, so that you do not end up paying an exorbitant amount of money.
2. Splurge on a Benarasi Silk Saree
Take a shopping tour of the traditional markets near Godowlia Chowk and Thatheri Bazaar. Your local guide will guide you to the best saree shops and help secure a fair deal. Benarasi silks are popular across the world due to its intricate weaving and opulent gold, silver, and zari embroidery. The local artisans work day and night to produce a massive collection of sarees in superior quality silk – it is worth every penny you would spend.
Expert Tip: While most saree shops in Varanasi sell authentic products, it is best to hire a local guide who can guarantee good prices for the best quality souvenirs.
3. Get a taste of Chaat and Lassi
The narrow alleys of Varanasi are fragrant with the aromas of spices and sweets – thanks to the many street food stalls and eateries serving a variety of flavours. Start your Varanasi food tour with a glass of Thandai or Lassi near the Ghats. If you have a sweet tooth, try Petha, Rabdi, Jalebi and Kheer near Godowlia Chowk. For savoury treats, munch on Kachori, Samosas, and Chaat from Madhur Jalpan near Vishwanath Temple Road and Kheer Sagar near Sonarpura Road. Wash it all down with a Kulhad Chai inside vibrant rooftop cafes with picturesque views of the Ganges.
Expert Tip: Try to avoid public washrooms, carry sanitizers, and bottled water.
4. Experience the unique vibe of the ancient Ghats
The banks of the holy Ganges in Varanasi are thronged by pilgrims and tourists from all over the world, all year round. During the early hours of the day, a walk near the Ghats would transform you into a spiritual realm, as devotees take dips in the holy waters and priests perform rituals. A visit to the Manikarnika Ghat lets you observe Hindus cremating the deceased; avoid taking photos of the cremation ceremonies. A whole day or more can be spent discovering the hidden secrets and unique folklore associated with the many Ghats of Banaras.
Expert Tip: Do not carry large amounts of cash while visiting the Ghats. They are ceaselessly crowded most of the time and pickpockets are common.
5. Learn Sanskrit at the Benares Hindu University Campus
This wouldn’t be a typical campus tour, we promise. The moment you enter the grounds of Banaras Hindu University, the calm atmosphere dissimilar to the cacophony of the city would be a welcome change. BHU is one of the oldest and largest residential educational campuses in Asia and is known for its cleanliness and greenery. Pay a visit to the New Kashi Vishwanath Temple and participate in Vedic and Sanskrit workshops conducted on weekends.
6. Walk through the web of colourful alleys
Hiring a car to explore this ancient world would be unwise, considering how crowded and congested it can get. Instead, discover the pulsating city on foot, navigating cobbled alleys with the help of friendly locals. The best time to visit these crowded backstreets is during the day so that you can capture colourful images of the old city. Most alleys can be complete look-alikes; having a good sense of direction would serve you well. Remember - maps and GPS have their limits, but local guides don’t. Also, always make sure to keep an eye on your belongings.
Expert Tip: Travellers are advised to wear closed shoes - cow dung and dirt are common on the streets.
7. Try the Benarasi Paan near the Ghats
You are most likely to get used to paan stains while travelling in these parts of India. Find out why this stuffed-betel leaf is such a favourite among the locals. The famous Benarasi Paan is a mix of areca nut, dried coconut, tobacco and cloves wrapped in a fresh betel leaf. Just pop one into your mouth and chew like the locals. Fair warning- it is an acquired taste.
Expert Tip: There could be the anti-socials disguised as “priests” and “Aghoris” smoking marijuana and doing drugs near the Ghats – it’s best to stay clear of these traps.
8. Immerse yourself in traditional ceremonies
A common goal for anyone visiting Varanasi is to indulge in the spiritual side of travel. One must-have experience is witnessing the spectacular aarti – you can either join the saffron-clad priests at Dashashwamedh Ghat or sail away on a boat to get another perspective from the river. Away from the ghats, the rituals continue in the many temples of the old city, such as the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Durga Temple (monkey temple), Tulsi Manas Temple and Bharat Mata Temple (Mother India Temple). Visit during Hindu festivals like Diwali, Makar Sankranti, Holi, and Dussehra (October and March) for the best experience.
Expert Tips: Wear modest clothing while exploring the Ghats and temples. Avoid taking pictures of the priests and be prepared to witness different religious practices that cannot be seen anywhere else in this world.
Image details and licenses: https://flic.kr/p/aDGAHT (Manuel Menal, CC BY-SA 2.0), https://www.flickr.com/photos/screamingmonkey/6543977625/in/photostream/, © Jorge Royan / CC BY-SA 3.0, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Meetha_paan_2.jpg (Shivamdwivedi82)