Varanasi, also known as Kashi, is a city like no other. It’s one of the world’s oldest continually inhabited cities, filled with vibrant culture, spirituality, and history. Located on the banks of the Ganges River, Varanasi offers travelers an immersive experience that goes beyond sightseeing. The best way to truly experience this fascinating city is through its walk tours in Varanasi and food tours in Varanasi, where you can explore its hidden gems and savor its rich culinary traditions.
In this post, we’ll guide you through the magic of Varanasi, from the narrow lanes of the old city to the mouthwatering street food that’s a feast for the senses.
Walk Tour in Varanasi: Unveil the Soul of the City
Varanasi isn’t just a city; it’s a living, breathing piece of history. A walk tour in Varanasi is one of the most intimate ways to discover the heart of this ancient place. Forget the noise and distractions of modern travel—here, it’s all about slow exploration, where every corner offers a new story.
1. The Ghats: Life by the Ganges
Varanasi is famous for its ghats—steps leading down to the Ganges River. These ghats are the lifeblood of the city. Start your tour at Dashashwamedh Ghat, where you’ll see people bathing in the holy waters, priests performing ancient rituals, and pilgrims preparing for boat rides. Each ghat offers a unique perspective on life and death, the most profound being the Manikarnika Ghat, the city’s primary cremation ghat. It’s a place where the spiritual and earthly intersect.
From there, you can visit Assi Ghat, a more tranquil spot where you can relax, reflect, and take in the view of the river and the city beyond.
2. Wander Through the Old City
As you stroll through Varanasi’s narrow, winding lanes, you’ll discover the real essence of the city. The streets are alive with sounds, smells, and sights—shops selling silk sarees, brassware, religious icons, and so much more. Hidden temples, like the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, are scattered throughout, offering moments of quiet reflection amidst the hustle and bustle.
Take time to stop at one of the street tea stalls, where you can sip on a hot cup of chai served in traditional clay cups (kulhads).
3. Ganga Aarti: A Spiritual Experience
One of the most unforgettable experiences of a walk tour in Varanasi is witnessing the evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat. This mesmerizing ceremony, performed every evening, involves synchronized chanting, the waving of large lamps, and the rhythmic beat of drums. The atmosphere is electric, and it’s a moment that’s both beautiful and deeply spiritual.
Food Tour in Varanasi: A Taste of Tradition
Varanasi’s food scene is as rich and diverse as the city itself. A food tour in Varanasi takes you on a delicious journey through the city’s best street food spots, allowing you to taste flavors that have been passed down through generations.
1. Start with Kachori and Jalebi
A typical morning in Varanasi begins with kachori—fried bread stuffed with spiced lentils or peas—served with a flavorful potato curry (sabzi). Pair this with jalebi, a crispy, syrup-soaked sweet that’s beloved by locals. Visit popular food spots like Kashi Chaat Bhandar to enjoy this hearty breakfast.
2. Banarasi Paan: A Unique Tradition
No food tour in Varanasi is complete without trying the famous Banarasi paan. This betel leaf treat is filled with a mixture of spices, sweet fillings, and sometimes, tobacco. It’s not just a snack; it’s part of the cultural fabric of the city. Stop by any paan shop and watch the delicate preparation process, then enjoy this local delicacy that’s famous for its refreshing, tangy taste.
3. Chaat: The Ultimate Street Food Experience
Varanasi’s chaat offerings are legendary. From tamatar chaat (a spicy tomato-based dish) to dahi puri (crispy shells filled with yogurt and spices), each bite is bursting with flavors. Head to Deena Chaat Bhandar or Kashi Chaat Bhandar to sample these delicious street treats. You’ll find the perfect balance of spicy, tangy, and sweet in every dish.
4. Lassi and Thandai: Cool Down with Refreshing Drinks
When it’s time to beat the heat, enjoy a refreshing glass of lassi—thick yogurt-based drink served in clay cups—or thandai, a spiced milk drink infused with almonds and saffron. Blue Lassi Shop is a must-visit for this creamy, cooling treat. The shop serves lassis in a variety of flavors, each more indulgent than the last.
5. Banarasi Sweets: A Sweet Finale
No visit to Varanasi is complete without indulging in its famous sweets. Try malaiyo, a light and airy milk froth dessert, or enjoy a bowl of rabri, a thickened sweet milk dish topped with nuts. Peda is another local sweet that’s rich and flavorful. These treats are the perfect way to end your food tour.
Why Take a Walk and Food Tour in Varanasi?
- Authentic Experience: These tours give you a real, unfiltered glimpse into the heart of Varanasi. You’ll go beyond the typical tourist spots and uncover the city’s hidden gems.
- Guided Insights: Local guides bring Varanasi to life with stories and history that make each location more meaningful.
- Customizable Journeys: Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or food, these tours can be tailored to your preferences.
- Memorable Moments: Both the walk and food tours offer unique experiences that you’ll remember for a lifetime.
Tips for Your Varanasi Tour
- Dress Modestly: Respect the local culture by wearing conservative clothes, especially when visiting temples or sacred sites.
- Stay Hydrated: The heat can be intense, especially on a food tour, so make sure to carry water with you.
- Comfortable Footwear: Prepare to walk a lot, so wear comfortable shoes that can handle narrow alleys and cobblestone streets.
- Embrace the Chaos: Varanasi is bustling, lively, and full of energy. Be ready to embrace the chaos and take it all in.
Conclusion
Varanasi is a city that captivates all your senses—its spiritual energy, rich history, and mouthwatering cuisine will leave you in awe. By choosing a walk tour in Varanasi and a food tour in Varanasi, you’ll discover the true essence of this magnificent city. Whether you’re strolling along the ghats, tasting the famous street food, or witnessing a spiritual ceremony, Varanasi has a way of connecting with travelers on a deep level.
Ready to embark on an unforgettable journey? Let Tournivaljourney guide you through the ancient streets and flavors of Varanasi for an experience you’ll treasure forever.
