Vibrant Varanasi: 10 unmissable experiences in the holy city

Varanasi (also Kashi) has something for everyone. From food you will not find anywhere else to ancient temples with rich histories, and its bustling ghats, the holy city of Varanasi is the place to be if you seek complete cultural immersion. Here are some things you can do when there.?

Varanasi has a whole lot to offer to devotees and tourists alike | Image: Unsplash

1. Grab a plate of kachori sabji

Start your morning with a hot plate of kachori?sabji?for breakfast. People start queuing up outside shops as early as 5 am to get their hands on a plate of the local breakfast favourite.

2.? Take a step back in time at Ramnagar Fort

For a little sightseeing, head to Ramnagar Fort and take a step back in time. Built by Maharaja Balwant Singh in 1705 on the eastern bank of the Ganges, it blends Indian and Islamic architectural styles beautifully.??

3. Cool down with a drink at Shiv Prasad Lassi Bhandar

This famous is not to be missed/Image: Wikimedia Creative Commons/Harshmander Rastogi

Feeling a little thirsty? Head to Shiv Prasad Lassi Bhandar, a 100-year-old shop that continues to serve authentic Banarasi lassi.??

4. Head to Banaras Hindu University

Founded in 1916 by Madan Mohan Malaviya, Banaras Hindu University is Asia's largest residential university. It is a living embodiment of the collective vision of greats such as Madan Mohan Malaviya, Dr Annie Besant and Dr S. Radhakrishnan.

5. Don't miss the famous coffee at Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple, BHU Campus

Time for a break from all that walking around. Try the famous cold coffee at Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple on BHU Campus.??

6. Indulge in little?Banarasi saree-shopping spree

Next, head to Chittanpura to get your hands on the famous Banarasi?sarees. The first sounds you'll hear are the handloom machines at work with almost every house weaving the iconic fabric.

The holy city of Varanasi is the place to be if you seek complete cultural immersion | Image: Unsplash

7.? Dessert time at Laxmi Chaiwale

Time for something sweet. Head to Laxmi Chaiwale for their famous?malai?toast and?chai.??

8. Enjoy some paan at?Netaji Paan Bhandar

Chase that sweet taste with a desi favourite:?paan. For the best in the city, head to Netaji Paan Bhandar, a shop that's been around since before India got independence.? ?

9. Spiritual hour at?Kashi Vishwanath Temple

This?mandir?is one of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines and sees lakhs of devotees daily. A visit here is a must.??

10. Take in the moment during Ganga aarti

Ganga aarti: Unsplash

Ganga?aarti?at Dashashwamedh Ghat is a sight to behold. There are three ways to do this: on the ghat, while boating and on a cruise on either Alaknanda or Bhagirati cruise vessels.?Check out opulent lodging options for the full Varanasi experience, along with breathtaking views of the ghats. Book your stay at Make My Trip Homestays and Villas today.

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