Uttar Pradesh
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3 Days in Varanasi for a Food Trip
Varanasi isn't just about spirituality—it's a food lover's dream. From crispy kachoris at sunrise to creamy malaiyyo in the evening, the city's flavors are as rich as its history. I've spent years tasting my way through its narrow lanes, and this itinerary covers the best bites without missing the must-see spots.
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Day 1
Day 1 in Varanasi
Start your Varanasi adventure with its most iconic sights and flavors, from sunrise on the Ganges to bustling street food stalls.
Activities
Sunrise Boat Ride on the Ganges
There's no better way to begin your day than gliding along the Ganges at dawn. Watch the ghats come alive with morning rituals, from devotees taking holy dips to priests performing aarti. The soft light paints the ancient buildings in gold—bring your camera for those dreamy shots.
- Bargain firmly but politely with boatmen
- Carry a light shawl—mornings can be misty and cool
Breakfast at Kashi Chaat Bhandar
After the boat ride, dive into Varanasi's legendary street food scene. This no-frills stall near Godowlia Chowk serves the city's best tamatar chaat—a spicy, tangy tomato curry topped with crispy fried bread. Pair it with their creamy lassi for the perfect energy boost.
- Try the kachori sabzi too—it's a local favorite
- Cash only—keep small bills handy
Explore Kashi Vishwanath Temple & Nearby Alleys
Wander through the labyrinthine lanes leading to Varanasi's most sacred temple. Even if you don't enter the main shrine (non-Hindus aren't allowed), the surrounding alleys are packed with tiny shops selling silk, brassware, and flower garlands. Stop at Blue Lassi Shop for their famous saffron-laced yogurt.
- Wear slip-on shoes—you'll need to remove them frequently
- Avoid weekends for fewer crowds
Must Try Foods
Transportation
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Day 2
Day 2 in Varanasi
Dive deeper into Varanasi's spiritual and culinary soul with visits to iconic ghats, a silk weaving workshop, and a sunset aarti experience. Savor local flavors from street stalls and hidden gems.
Activities
Morning at Dashashwamedh Ghat
Start your day at Varanasi's most vibrant ghat, where the energy of pilgrims, boatmen, and chai wallahs creates a lively scene. Watch locals perform morning rituals and soak in the atmosphere. Don't miss the small stalls selling fresh coconut water and tulsi tea.
- Wear comfortable shoes for uneven steps
- Respect ongoing rituals - ask before photographing
Banaras Silk Weaving Demonstration
Visit a family-run silk workshop in the narrow lanes of Vishwanath Galli to see how Varanasi's famous brocade sarees are made. Watch artisans work on handlooms creating intricate zari patterns - you might even get to try weaving a few threads yourself.
- Look for 'Peeli Kothi' area for authentic workshops
- Bargain politely if buying - real zari work starts around ₹5,000
Evening Ganga Aarti at Assi Ghat
Experience the more intimate version of Varanasi's famous fire ritual at Assi Ghat, where students and locals gather for a beautiful musical performance. Arrive early to get a good spot on the steps, or consider watching from a boat in the river for a different perspective.
- The aarti moves with the sunset - check exact time locally
- Try the special 'Assi Ghat chai' from nearby stalls
Must Try Foods
Transportation
Day 3
Day 3 in Varanasi
A slower-paced day diving into hidden gems, local crafts, and lesser-known flavors of Varanasi, wrapping up with a serene sunset by the river.
Activities
Morning at Ramnagar Fort & Museum
Cross the river to the quieter east bank and explore the 18th-century Ramnagar Fort, home to the former Maharaja of Varanasi. The crumbling red sandstone structure houses a quirky museum with vintage cars, royal palanquins, and an astrological clock. The riverside views here feel worlds away from the ghat chaos.
- Bargain for the boat ride (should cost ₹50-100 per person roundtrip)
- Look for the hidden Durga Temple within the fort complex
Lunch & Metal Craft Discovery at Vishwanath Gali
Wander the narrow Vishwanath Gali lanes near the temple to discover generations-old metal workshops making ritual items. Stop at Deena Chaat Bhandar for their legendary tamatar chaat (spiced tomato mash) and kachori-sabzi, then peek into tiny shops selling hand-hammered brass bells and copper puja utensils.
- Try the 'special rabri' at nearby Ram Bhandar if you have a sweet tooth
- Ask permission before photographing artisans at work
Sunset at Manikarnika Ghat & Local Eats
As the light softens, visit Manikarnika Ghat to quietly observe the cycle of life (no photography). Then walk to Kachori Gali near Godowlia for crispy sabudana kachoris at Shri Rajbandhu or malaiyyo (whipped milk foam) during winter months. End at Bhonsle Ghat with chai, watching boats drift by.
- Dress modestly at Manikarnika
- Malaiyyo is only available Nov-Feb - look for vendors with copper pots