India, a country of bountiful nature, culture and heritage, has a wide range of places for tourists and even residents to explore. Globally known for its diversity in culture and religion, India is home to varied experiences from exciting to calming.
An ancient city, Varanasi is an ideal place when one is seeking a mystical and spiritual experience in India. Located by the banks of the holy river Ganga in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh, Varanasi is also famously known by the names Kashi and Banaras. Historically, it has been a pilgrimage place owing to its religious significance to the Hindus. The city is also a melting pot of cultures and religions, and home to many important Buddhist and Jain temples, as well as mosques and churches.
Varanasi offers an experience that replenishes your mind, body, and soul. It is a place where you can let go of all your worries and immerse yourself in the divine energy that surrounds you. So come and absorb the experiences of this beautiful place, make unforgettable memories of absolute bliss, and take a piece of Varanasi with you wherever you go. You are welcomed by a captivating culture that is rich in tradition and history. From the vibrant and lively music to the mouth-watering food, every aspect of this city is a delight to the senses. Going Varanasi sightseeing is a journey of discovery, where every corner has something new to offer. You can explore the ancient temples, immerse yourself in the local markets, or simply take a stroll along the serene ghats. And amidst all of this, you can feel a sense of spirituality that is hard to find anywhere else in the world.
Beholding the Beauty of Varanasi
This enchanting home of the Ganges leaves no space for dullness. You will be thrilled to know that the city of Banaras awaits you with a range of delightful views. You can simply rejuvenate your soul by immersing yourself in the spiritual atmosphere or get into exploring the ways of life of the pilgrims. From being fascinated with the art and culture of Varanasi to listening to the stories that the ancient structures situated in the city have narrated for centuries. From absorbing all the positivity that this divine city has to offer to engaging in the activities of the locals. Varanasi has something to offer to everyone. We at Niraan – The Tent City, Varanasi have thoughtfully designed various guided tours that take you through the entire magnificence of the city. Ranging from a tour of the city, visiting the wonders of Sarnath or admiring the cultural heritage, we have different packages that offer you all.
The Blissful Aarti by the Ganges
The divine ‘Ganga Aarti’ is one of the most special events of the many other things to do in Varanasi at night. It takes place every day on various Ghaats, where the priests chant sacred Sanskrit mantras and hymns to honour the holy river Ganges and all the Gods associated with it. This ritual is attended by hundreds of visitors and pilgrims who dwell in the sound of the ringing bells, and indulge in the scent of burning camphor amidst the sublime experience. Niraan – The Tent City, Varanasi invites you to join this auspicious Ganga Aarti, in the vicinity of Dasawamedh Ghaat where you can ruminate with the rhythm of the mantras and let go of all your worries with the flowing water of the Maa Ganga.
The Boat Ride Through Varanasi
Witness the city from a perspective of unique things to do in Varanasi and get ready to take in the panoramic views of the majestic ghats and stunning temples. As you glide along the calm waters of the river Ganges, you will feel a sense of tranquillity and peace wash over you. One of the most magical experiences during your boat ride in Varanasi will be watching the Ganga Aarti from it The ritual of lighting lamps and chanting prayers while the river flows is an unforgettable sight to behold. Let the gentle sway of the boat and the soothing sounds of the river create memories of absolute bliss that you will cherish forever. Niraan – The Tent City, Varanasi offers you the exclusive experience of the serenity and spirituality of Varanasi with a boat ride on the holy river Ganges.
The Purifying Water of the Ganges
Taking a dip in the holy water of the river Ganga is not only a sacred ritual for Hindus but also an experience that can fill your heart with immense peace and serenity. This tradition dates back centuries, and many devotees visit Varanasi to be a part of this holy ritual. When you immerse yourself in the cool, clear waters of the Ganga, you can feel a sense of purity washing over you, as if all your sins and impurities are being washed away. This experience is not just about cleansing the body but also the soul. It is a chance to reflect, meditate, and connect with the divine. With the serene and spiritual atmosphere around the ghats, the experience of taking a dip in the holy Ganga is sure to be one of the highlights of all the places to visit in Varanasi in 1 day.
The Traditions of Varanasi
Exploring the temples of Varanasi is a spiritual journey that one must experience. This ancient city is home to many beautiful and divine temples that attract devotees from all over the world. As a part of Niraan – The Tent City, Varanasi’s exclusive itinerary, you can embark on a journey of spirituality and visit the most famous temples in the city. From the Bharat Mata temple, dedicated to Mother India, to the Tulsi Manas temple, dedicated to Lord Rama, and the Monkey temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, you will get a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the city. These temples are not just places of worship but are also architectural marvels that showcase the grandeur of India’s past.
The Heritage of Sarnath
Sarnath is a spiritual and cultural hub located near the confluence of the holy river Ganga and Varuna rivers, just 10 kilometres from the city of Kashi. As a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site, it boasts a range of attractions that showcases its rich history and cultural heritage. The Sarnath museum is a treasure trove of Buddhist art and artefacts, while the Dhamek Stupa holds great importance for pilgrims worldwide as it is the site of Lord Buddha’s first sermon after attaining enlightenment. The Sarnath Monastery, Japanese temple, and Korean temple provide an opportunity to explore different cultures. A visit to Sarnath is a must-include in the itinerary for anyone visiting Varanasi, and at Niraan – The Tent City, Varanasi, we organize a comprehensive Varanasi city tour of the area for our guests.
The Uniqueness of Art and Culture
As you explore the city of Varanasi, you will be amazed by the rich cultural heritage that it holds. A walk through the narrow streets will take you on a journey of beautifully adorned walls, sculptures and folk art that depict the city’s majestic past. The Banarasi silk sarees, known for their intricate designs and exquisite beauty, are an integral part of the city’s rich culture. The woodwork in the city, with its intricate designs, is another unique aspect that showcases the skilled craftsmanship of the local artisans. Another famous sighseeing in Banaras also includes the classical music of the Gharana, a reflection of the city’s deep roots in culture and tradition. Niraan – The Tent City, Varanasi offers guided heritage walks that take you through the city, giving you a chance to explore the culture and tradition of this majestic city.
The Famous Food of Banaras
A paradise for food lovers, the famous street food in Varanasi is something that must not be missed. Exploring the narrow streets and alleys of the city, you will find a plethora of options to choose from. Some must-try are the mouth-watering street foods which are found almost anywhere in the city and offer you with take-home delightful memories.
Chena Dahi Wada
Chena Dahi Wada is a famous food in Varanasi that is loved by locals and tourists alike. It is a unique variation of the traditional Dahi Wada, which is typically made from lentil dumplings soaked in thick yoghurt and topped with spices like cumin and red chilli powder.
In the case of Chena Dahi Wada, instead of using lentils, fresh chena or paneer (cottage cheese) is used to make the dumplings. The chena is mixed with spices and rolled into small balls, which are then deep-fried until they are crispy and golden brown.
The fried chena dumplings are then soaked in sweet and tangy yoghurt and topped with an array of spices like cumin, red chilli powder, chaat masala, and fresh coriander leaves. The result is a mouthwatering dish that is both sweet and spicy, with a satisfying crunch from the fried chena.
Tamatar Chaat
Tamatar Chaat is a famous food in Banaras, loved by locals and tourists alike. It is made by mixing boiled tomatoes and potatoes, mashed with spices like red chillies and hing, and topped with coriander leaves. Some vendors also add sweet and sour tamarind chutney, yoghurt, and sev (thin crispy noodles) to enhance the taste. This tangy, spicy, and flavorful chaat is a perfect snack to have while wandering through the bustling streets of Varanasi. It is not only delicious but also nutritious, as it is packed with vitamins, minerals, and fibre from vegetables. Don’t miss out on trying Tamatar Chaat when in Varanasi!
Launglata
Launglata is a popular sweet dish in Varanasi that is enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. This sweet treat is made using refined flour, also known as maida, which is mixed with ghee and water to form a smooth dough. The dough is then shaped into small balls and flattened to form small discs. For the filling, a mixture of khoya, saffron strands, chopped nuts, sugar, and cardamom powder is prepared. The mixture is then placed in the centre of the flattened discs and the edges are sealed together. These filled discs are then deep-fried in ghee until they turn golden brown.
Launglata is best enjoyed when it is warm and fresh. The crispy outer layer complements the rich and flavorful filling, making it a delightful indulgence for anyone with a sweet tooth. It is a popular dessert served during festivals, weddings, and other celebratory occasions in Varanasi.
Banarasi Paan
Banarasi Paan is one of the most iconic and popular street foods in Varanasi. It is a betel leaf stuffed with an array of mouth-watering ingredients such as cardamom, gulkand, fennel seeds, and suparis, all mixed together to create a unique blend of flavours. The paan is typically prepared by first spreading lime paste over the betel leaf, followed by the stuffing ingredients, and then wrapping it all together. The Banarasi Paan is not just any ordinary mouth freshener, but it is considered an integral part of the culture and tradition of Varanasi. People in Banaras have been relishing the paan for centuries and it has become an essential element of their social gatherings and celebrations.
Where to Stay When in Varanasi?
Imagine waking up to the soothing sound of the Ganges flowing and meditating in the warmth of the winter sun. Experience the profound silence that speaks volumes about inner peace and immerse yourself in the goodness of nature. Nourish your senses with nature’s purest forms and enrich your imagination.
If you’re seeking a spiritual journey or simply fascinated by rich culture and history, we present to you a tranquil, serene, and luxuriImous accommodation option in Varanasi, situated on the banks of the Ganges. Niraan – The Tent City, Varanasi is a premium glamping resort built on a riverbed, offering you an impeccable and peaceful stay with breathtaking views of the ghats. The resort celebrates the convergence of timeless beauty and scenic river views and provides an exclusive experience that’s available only during certain months of the year.
Niraan – The Tent City, Varanasi offers a new level of luxury living in Varanasi. It’s situated just off the shore, providing majestic views of the ghats of the river Ganga. The accommodation is thoughtfully designed to match the aesthetic surroundings, providing an ideal atmosphere for a tranquil and peaceful stay. The resort has a clubhouse, a business centre, a conference hall, a badminton court, a volleyball court, a rejuvenation centre, and a riverside cafe and dining area, ensuring that all your needs are taken care of during your stay.
FAQs
The best time to visit Varanasi is from November to April because of the pleasant weather of the winter and spring seasons. The temperature of the winter season in Varanasi is around 5-15 degree Celsius.
Banaras has numerous markets for various kinds of items. The most popular market is Thatheri bazar, which is known for beautiful copper artefacts for home decor made by local artisans. It is the only place where you will get intricate stone-trim work artefacts.
Another market to explore in Varanasi is Golghar. The items sold here are designer-style footwear, shawls, accessories, beads and bracelets. Vishwanath lane offers the famous things in varanasi for shopping in Varanasi like designer sarees, dupattas and wooden toys.
For street food, you can visit Ram Bhandar Chowk and Kaashi Chaat Bhandar. Sweets and desserts will be found in Chaukhamba gali and Madhur Jalpan shop. And for the famous paan of Banaras, head to Keshav Paan shop.
Sarnath and Jaunpur are places to visit near Varanasi. In the varanasi sightseeing tour package provided by Niraan – The Tent City, Varanasi you will be given a nuanced experience of the historically divine place of Sarnath, which includes sightseeing of Sarnath monastery and Sarnath museum along with darshan of various temples in the vicinity.
The best place for a weekend getaway in Varanasi is Niraan – The Tent City, Varanasi. In this retreat, you will experience a unique blend of luxury and bliss. The place offers a range of amenities and a comfortable environment for you to relax and enjoy your weekends.
Sightseeing in Varanasi includes these many famous places: Shri Kashi Vishwanath Ghat, the Dhamek Stupa, Banaras Hindu University, Ramnagar Fort, Assi Ghat, Dasaswamedh Ghat and Manikarnika Ghat.