The two adjectives that best capture Varanasi’s allure are colourful and holy. This popular tourist site in India is known for the River Ganges’ bathing Ghats. Millions of tourists visit this location annually as it is one of the holiest places on earth. Others seek forgiveness of their sins, while some seek spiritual enlightenment. Travellers are becoming increasingly mesmerised by Varanasi because of all the things to do there. Besides the beautiful ghats, Varanasi is known for its beautiful culture, people, clothes and food.
Varanasi’s food is a vital component of its culture and is greatly influenced by the neighbouring states of West Bengal and Bihar. As well-known as the area’s temples are the street food of Varanasi. Without trying some of the mouthwatering treats presented here, your trip would be incomplete. There are a few options for non-vegetarians, although desi ghee is primarily used for cooking vegetarian food. Varanasi’s streets are crowded with various restaurants selling delectable food, from appetisers to entrées to desserts. The food of Varanasi is a masterful fusion of ancient traditional flavours with a dash of novelty and modernity. Another great thing about food in Varanasi is that you don’t have to step outside your home to try all these dishes. You can order food online in Varanasi and enjoy it in your home. Now let’s take a look at things that should be on your Varanasi travel bucket list.
1. Witness mesmerising evening aarti ceremony
Witnessing the aarti ceremony in Varanasi is undoubtedly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The Dasawamedh Ghat is the best place to observe the spectacular event since there, beautiful rituals are performed right before your eyes. Big brass lamps are employed during this celebration, which is accompanied by chants and crowds of people waiting to pray.
If you want to get the most out of the event, arrive at least one hour before the Aarti. You can see at this point how brass lamps are cleaned and prepared for the occasion, as well as how five elevated planks are set up at the edge of the Ghats’ steps. Observing how priests dress for prayer and the Aarti ceremony in identical dhotis and kurtas is fascinating.
2. Visit Varanasi temples
A trip to Varanasi wouldn’t be complete without visiting the best temples in this city, which is recognised for its Ghats and Temples. In Varanasi, there is one on practically every road and intersection. Larger temples are related to Hindu mythology and history, while smaller ones are used for regular local prayers and rituals. Large numbers of travellers frequently visit these places of worship. They also depict Indian architectural styles.
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is the most well-known temple in this area. This tourist destination, often known as the Golden Temple, was constructed in 1780 by Queen Ahilyabai Holker of Indore. Here, Lord Shiva’s Vishwanath or Jyotirlinga is worshipped.
3. Morning boat ride in the beautiful Ganges river
One of the most incredible things to do in Varanasi may be rowing boat excursions early in the morning. The trip down the Ganges River best embodies the experience of Varanasi. It offers a panoramic view of the river and the surrounding area as it leads through many Ghats and erstwhile palaces near the river’s banks.
From 5:30 AM to 8 AM is the perfect time to take a boat trip on the Ganges River. At this point, you will be mesmerised by the place’s colour and commotion. The city is alive and bouncy even at five in the morning, which will surprise visitors.
Because you will witness the devotion that folks have in the Ganges River, the morning boat journey will leave a lasting impression on your heart. Be prepared to see Sadhus and pilgrims praying and taking baths before you’re on the journey. The religious importance of Varanasi and the reasons the Ganges River is adored around the world will be explained throughout the entire voyage.
4. Taste the local cuisines of Varanasi
Although there are several well-known street dishes from all around the nation, nothing compares to the hot and crispy kachoris and samosas from Banaras or Varanasi. The holy city’s cuisine is characterised by its culture and history and is found on the banks of the Ganges in the state of Uttar Pradesh. Whether they are spicy, sweet, or sour, vegetarian delights are typically made with mustard oil and desi ghee.
The majority of Varanasi desserts, including the Launglata, Sankat Mochan ke Laddoo, Parval Mithai, Kheer Mohan, and Magdal, have a basis of milk and ghee. You’d be amazed to know that you can taste all these mouthwatering delicacies of Varanasi in your home itself. You can order food online in Varanasi and get it delivered to your home within a few minutes. On top of that, you can choose from various restaurants, cafes, and food joints to place an online food order and enjoy it in your home.
5. Take a stroll around the beautiful Ghats
One of the nicest things to do in Varanasi is to explore the Ghats. Nearly one hundred Ghats may be seen throughout the city, with each one’s steps leading to the banks of the Ganges. Hindus from all over the world use these as funeral grounds, prayer Ghats, and bathing Ghats. Because they are linked to a myth or tale, they become seductive and fascinating to travellers.
The privately owned ones in this area are well-known for their early-morning boat cruises, which offer stunning, all-encompassing views of the area. The Assi Ghat, Mata Anandamai Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, Munshi Ghat, Dashashwamedh Ghat, Scindia Ghat, Raj Ghat, and Raj Ghat are a few of the significant Ghats that can be seen during a journey to Varanasi. The most well-known of these is perhaps Dashashwamedh Ghat. Its convenient proximity to Vishwanath Temple and magnificent look make Varanasi a magical destination to visit. Two Hindu legends are connected to the Ghat.
Varanasi is undoubtedly a paradise on earth. If one wants to see humanity’s journey to salvation, one must visit Varanasi and witness its sheer beauty with their own eyes. The food here will surely touch your belly and your soul. So go ahead and plan your Varanasi trip, and don’t forget to put online food delivery in Varanasi to make the most of it.
Read More-: Why Opt for Home Food Delivery in Pune
