Top 6 Things to Do in Varanasi

The mystical and the oldest living town of Varanasi represent spirituality at its best. Devotees on pilgrimages, spiritual seekers, and deep thinkers make their way to this holy town gracing the banks of the holy river Ganga where it is believed if you take your last breath here, you shall be granted moksha. Lined with known and lesser-known Ghats for you to spend the evenings and have a cup of chai and samosa, dotted with iconic and legendary holy sites of worship and an enigmatic culture of the people here, Varanasi (formerly known as Banares), is truly not just a holiday destination but a world of experience in itself.

If you have a Varanasi Tour Packages planned then here are some of the best things to do in Varanasi for a fun-filled and spiritual holiday:

Boat Ride on Ganga River at Crack Of Dawn

Varanasi Ganga River

People take holy dips in this highly revered river at various holy spots like Rishikesh, Allahabad, and numerous others. It is a life-giving river since time immortal. Keeping its spiritual and religious values in mind, taking a boat ride, as the sunrises and you look out at the endless horizon is an experience neither you can have anywhere else in the world nor can get enough of. Booking this ride is very easily available and be sure to book from a trusted agent to avoid getting ripped off. This boat ride will fill you with an unparalleled sense of utmost tranquility and will make you realize why this place is called a Devbhoomi or the land of the gods and goddesses themselves.

Attend Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat

Dashashwamedh Ghat

The Aarti procession that takes place on the iconic and legendary Ghat of Dashashwamedh is probably one of the grandest most elaborate Aarti processions that takes place in Varanasi and maybe even in the world. This Ganga Aarti has also been attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi along with a throng of VIPs and famous personalities. This Aarti ceremony is extremely lavish and is performed by pundits as an ode to the life-giving river and the higher power above which looks extremely mesmerizing and you will feel your mind, body, and soul cleanse from the inside. It is truly a spectacle and since it takes place every day during sunset you must have this wonderful experience without which Varanasi's visit remains incomplete.

Varanasi Food Walk

Varanasi Food Walk

Varanasi is one of the best places to try out some ethnic and authentic Indian meals and street food. The best part? You can eat to your fill at the cheapest prices. Freshness is guaranteed as all these sweets, mains, and snacks are prepared freshly using the freshest available ingredients. Although you must lower your standards a bit to have the most wholesome street food experience as they are situated in tiny nooks and crannies, the food makes up for it. Some must-try delicacies that you can try during your food walk here are - Jalebis, Kachori, Chaat, Lassi, Masala Chai, Aloo Poori, and literally anything. You will not have to put any effort to look for food here as there are plenty available literally every step of the way.

Temple Tour to Know More About Our Culture

Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Do you know that Varanasi is dotted with over 2,000 known and lord knows numerous unknown temples? Topping the list is the ancient and holiest of all Shiva Jyotirlinga temples in the world - Kashi Vishwanath. This golden-topped temple finished with amazing motifs and designs on the walls is a must-visit. Apart from Hindu temples kasha or Varanasi has embraced numerous other religions which is clear with the presence of several mosques and monasteries. Anywhere you look in this holy town you will be greeted with an open door to a religious site which is truly an amazing experience. All these reasons put together make this holy place a hub for Hinduism and learning more about our varied and colorful culture.

Go On an Excursion to Sarnath

Sarnath Stupa

The holy Buddhist pilgrimage city of Sarnath is located just a 10 kms of road journey distance from Varanasi that can easily be covered in your private vehicle or taxi or local bus service. Sarnath is particularly famous for being the place where Gautam Buddha visited after he had attained enlightenment and preached his first sermon to 5 of his most reliable disciples who helped in setting forward the wheel of dharma. Other than this a km from here is the village which is the birthplace of the 11th Tirthankara making it extremely pious for people of the Jain community. Located near the confluence point of the Ganga and Yamuna rivers this place is a must-visit if you want to explore more of Varanasi.

Shopping Local in Varanasi

Varanasi Shopping

The markets and shopping places in Varanasi are very colorful and vibrant all year long, especially for visitors and travelers. Being a hub for travelers you can expect to buy lots of gifts for your loved ones back home, souvenirs, and even to pamper yourself. One of the must-buy things in Varanasi is the Banaras silk Saree which draws its name from this very town and has gained international recognition for its delicate and fine design work, heavy texture, and extremely intricate handwoven patterns that takes days and hours to make. Available in innumerable colors, shades, and designs you will leave with more than one. Apart from this, you can also choose to buy idols of gods, Gulabi Minakari items, Gangaajal, glass beads, Rudraksha Mala, wooden toys and musical instruments and so many things that the shopaholic in you will be completely fulfilled.

Varanasi is much more than Ghats and temples, it is a different world where people have been coming together, for ages, to praise and honor the higher power above. Other things that you can experience here include - a visit to Ramnagar Fort, exploring the always-burning Manikarnika Ghat, taking a stroll at Assi Ghat, and simply interacting with the locals in one of the many local tea shops or Dhabas. No matter where you decide to go or explore in Banares you shall be having the time of your life and be left with a lifetime's worth of memories.