Varanasi Travel Guide: Olden Ghats, Delectable Food & Other Things to Do!
🛕 Introduction: The Soul of India in One City
Welcome to your ultimate Varanasi Travel Guide also known as Kashi or Benares—is not just a city; it’s an emotion. Set along the sacred Ganga River, Varanasi is believed to be one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities. With its ancient ghats, spiritual resonance, chaotic charm, and flavorful street food, it feels like walking through a living museum of culture, devotion, and history.
Whether you’re a seeker, traveler, foodie, or photographer, Varanasi offers an unforgettable journey that touches your soul. From sunrise boat rides to flavorful chaats, this guide by Triponef explores all the unmissable experiences that make Varanasi one of India’s most iconic travel destinations.
Olden Ghats of Varanasi: Where Life Meets the Ganga
One of the highlights of this Varanasi Travel Guide is exploring the city’s famous ghats along the Ganges River .The ghats of Varanasi are where the city breathes. Lining the banks of the Ganges, these stone steps are the heart of spiritual life here—hosting everything from prayers and cremations to music and yoga.
📍 Dashashwamedh Ghat
Arguably the most iconic ghat, it hosts the spellbinding Ganga Aarti every evening. Priests with flaming diyas, rhythmic chants, and a glowing river full of floating candles create a divine experience you’ll never forget.
🌄 Assi Ghat
Start your day here with sunrise yoga, a soulful boat ride, or a quiet tea at a local café. It’s popular among both locals and foreign travelers.
🔥 Manikarnika Ghat
One of India’s oldest cremation grounds, this ghat is where death is seen not as an end, but as liberation. It may be intense, but it’s an essential part of Varanasi’s spiritual energy.
🧘 Tulsi & Scindia Ghats
Quieter and less touristy, these ghats are perfect for meditation, sketching, or simply escaping the chaos.
🧭 Pro Tip: Book a sunrise boat tour to see the ghats come alive in golden hues. Don’t forget your camera—this is Instagram heaven.
Varanasi Travel Guide for Sacred Temples & Spiritual Experiences
Varanasi is the spiritual capital of India, and its temples are gateways to the divine.
🛕 Kashi Vishwanath Temple
This is the heart of Varanasi’s spiritual circuit. Recently revamped with the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, it’s now easier to navigate and visually stunning. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and attracts millions of devotees every year.
🕉 Sarnath
Just 10 km from the city, this peaceful site is where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon. Explore the Dhamek Stupa, Buddhist monasteries, and the excellent archaeological museum.
🇮🇳 Bharat Mata Temple
A unique temple featuring a huge relief map of India carved in marble. No idols—only patriotism.
🪔 Ganga Aarti (Evening Ritual)
Every evening at Dashashwamedh Ghat, witness an epic spectacle of fire, chants, and devotion. Arrive early to get a good spot or hire a boat for a floating front-row seat.
🧘♀️ Spiritual experiences in Varanasi go beyond temples. Take part in morning chants, visit ashrams, or simply observe the river rituals—it’s meditation in motion.
Delectable Food You Can’t Miss
Varanasi is a paradise for street food lovers. Every bite here has history, flavor, and love.
🫓 Kachori Sabzi
The classic Banarasi breakfast! Fried lentil-stuffed balls served with spicy potato curry. Best enjoyed near Thatheri Bazaar in the morning.
🍅 Tamatar Chaat
Unlike anything else in India, this spicy, mashed tomato chaat is a flavor bomb. Try it at Deena Chaat Bhandar near Dashashwamedh Ghat.
🥤 Blue Lassi Shop
Iconic and over 70 years old, this tiny shop near Manikarnika Ghat serves heavenly lassis in earthen cups. Flavors range from pomegranate to chocolate banana.
🍧 Malaiyo (Winter Special)
A light, creamy froth made from milk and saffron, served only in the early mornings of winter. It’s as delicate as it is delicious.
🍬 Banarasi Paan
Not just food—it’s tradition. The paan here is sweet, decorative, and a must-try experience.
🧑🍳 Want more? Book a local food tour with Triponef and experience hidden gems and local favorites you’d otherwise miss.
📸 Instagram Tip: Capture the colorful food plates against the old city walls for eye-catching travel content.
Offbeat & Local Experiences
While temples and ghats are Varanasi’s core, the real magic lies in its local experiences.
🧵 Banarasi Saree Weaving Workshop
Visit a weaver’s home to see how the luxurious Banarasi sarees are hand-woven. A fascinating look at heritage craftsmanship.
Visit a weaver’s home to see how the luxurious Banarasi sarees are hand-woven. A fascinating look at heritage craftsmanship.
🔗 Explore authentic Banarasi weaves at Kashi Looms, where tradition meets timeless design.
🪔 Hidden Galliyan (Alleys)
Wander through Varanasi’s maze-like alleys filled with surprise shrines, ancient doorways, and street musicians. You never know what you’ll find!
🏰 Ramnagar Fort
Across the Ganga, this old fort offers museums, royal collections, and views away from the crowds.
🎶 Evening Sitar or Tabla Concert
Some cafes and ashrams host free or ticketed classical music evenings. Magical with a cup of chai in hand.
🎨 For art lovers, Varanasi’s walls are full of street art, especially around Assi Ghat. Capture these for a creative photo diary.
How to Plan Your Trip
✅ Best Time to Visit
October to March is ideal for cool weather and festivals like Dev Deepawali.
Avoid summer months (April–June) due to extreme heat.
⏳ Ideal Duration
2 to 3 days are enough for a relaxed yet fulfilling trip.
🛏️ Where to Stay
Near Assi Ghat: Peaceful, good for backpackers & yoga lovers
Near Dashashwamedh Ghat: Central location, traditional vibe
Across the Ganga: More scenic and less crowded
🚖 How to Get Around
Use rickshaws, walk along the ghats, or take boat rides
Book a guided walking tour for deeper cultural insights
🧳 Bonus Tip: Carry modest clothes for temple visits, and always ask before photographing people.
Conclusion: Let Varanasi Change You
Varanasi doesn’t just show you India—it shows you life. It teaches you how to embrace chaos, find beauty in stillness, and discover spirituality in everyday moments. Whether you’re sipping lassi at a ghat or watching a soul ascend in smoke, you’ll leave this city changed.
✨ Ready to explore the soul of India?
👉 Book your Varanasi experience with Triponef now and create memories that last a lifetime.