Things to Do in Varanasi

Namaste! 🙏

I am Badal. My family has lived for many generations in Varanasi allowing me to know every hidden corner of this beautiful and ancient city, along with fascinating stories about our traditions, history, religion, and ordinary people like myself.

Varanasi represents the essence of India. Here you will find India's life and drama. But here you will also discover that mysterious and magical "energy" that has captivated many foreigners over the centuries.

Varanasi has a million secrets. A visitor alone can never hope to uncover more than a fraction. Still, with my help, you will be able to discover the essence of this captivating city and its thrilling history.

Our tour will start at the meeting point, from where we will embark on a 3 hours journey to discover the most important historical and religious sites. We will visit the Ghats, crematorium, temples, narrow streets, markets and popular street food stalls, but also less touristic spots that are key to understanding the reality of modern Varanasi.

During our tour, I will be sharing with you historical information and other important facts but also telling you interesting stories about our daily life, our gastronomy and our customs.

I will be delighted to take you on this journey. Let me be your key to unlocking the hidden secrets of the ancient and spiritual city of Varanasi. 

Greetings!

I'm Anant Prakash your food tour guide. I welcome you to this holy city Varanasi!🙏

Varanasi is well known for the Ghats, Grand Ganges, architecture, art and culture of various religions, and apart from these, a variety of street foods of this city is appreciated.

In this food tour you'll experience the various street food of varanasi.


The food items you'll taste and experience are as follows:-

Morning Food items:

• Kachori Sabzi
• Jalebi
• Choti kachori with Chana
• Malai toast with tea
• Malaiiyoo
• Lassi
• Thandai
• Banarasi Betal Paan

Evening Food items:

• Samosa with Chole
• Golgappe (Pani puri)
• Aaloo Tikki 
• Tamatar Chat
• Lassi
• Thandai
• Dahi Vada
• Dosa
• Idli Sambar
• Vada Sambar
• Kulfi falooda
• Banarasi Betal Paan

The food tour will cost according to what you have eaten other than guiding charges that is between $10 to $50, depending upon your experience and satisfaction.

Thanks! 🙏

Namaste 🙏
Greetings!🌸

Welcome to Varanasi, the oldest and most vibrant city in the world. The city is the abode of Lord Shiva and the meeting point of all religions! 🪷

Varanasi has a long history associated with numerous beliefs, stories, legends, myths and rituals.

Dear fellow travelers, this explicit tour will cover and unveil all the aspects and facets of my city, Varanasi. The religious perspective with relevant rituals and books, Indian classical music and related instruments, traditional crafts, mainly silk and wooden handicrafts.

In this holy city you will find temples, mosques, monasteries and churches.
Today I will introduce you to the antiquity of this unique city! ✨

It starts from St. Thomas Church at Godowlia, followed by Varanasi Bazaar and the cremation ground at Manikarnika Ghat and all other important ghats.

The tour includes the following locations:

• St. Thomas Church 
• Maa Kaali Temple
• Kashi Labh Mukti Bhavan
• State School
• Hospital
• Alleys of Varanasi
• Manikarnika Ghat
• Panchganga Ghat
• Alam Gir Mosque
• Old streets of Varanasi
• The famous Vishwanath Gali
• Dashashwamedh Ghat
• To see and feel the main handcrafted artisan products

I will introduce you to the culture, traditions, religion and antiquity of my holy city, Varanasi.

It will be an amazing experience for tourists that will make their trip unforgettable.💐

 Kind regards🙏

Get ready to experience the spiritual essence of Varanasi on our contribution-based Free Walking Tour — a soulful journey through the city’s sacred heart, led by passionate local guides who share stories passed down through generations. Walk through mystical alleys where faith, life, and death coexist, revealing layers of tradition, devotion, and history.

From powerful temples and hidden shrines to riverside rituals and timeless architecture, this immersive walk takes you deep into the spiritual pulse of India’s oldest living city. Expect fascinating legends, cultural insights, and insider tips to help you truly connect with Varanasi beyond the tourist lens.

Carry a bottle of water. Wear comfortable clothing, suitable footwear, a mask (optional), sunglasses (optional), and a cap or umbrella (optional) for walking.

Please note: Free tours are not conducted for solo travellers. If only one person is booked, we’ll offer a reschedule option. If not possible, the booking will be cancelled

The Call of the Ganges…

The air is thick with the scent of incense, the echoes of temple bells ring through the alleys, and the Ganges flows, carrying whispers of centuries past. Varanasi isn’t just a city; it’s an experience, a portal to a world where time moves differently. 

 

What Awaits You?

On this free walking tour, we take you deep into the labyrinthine streets, revealing the secrets hidden behind centuries-old temples, bustling markets, and sacred rituals.

🔸 Dashashwamedh Ghat – Witness the breathtaking morning energy of Varanasi’s most famous ghat. Feel the spiritual pulse of the city as priests chant mantras and pilgrims take their first dip in the holy river.

🔸 The Narrow Alleys of the Old City – Step back in time as you navigate through tiny streets that open into unexpected wonders—hidden shrines, traditional sweet shops, and age-old silk weaving workshops.

🔸 Kashi Vishwanath Temple (From the Outside) – Glimpse one of the most revered temples in India, where the scent of flowers and devotion fills the air.

🔸 Manikarnika Ghat – Explore the mysteries of the burning ghat, where life and death intertwine in an eternal cycle, offering a deep perspective on Hindu beliefs.

🔸 Local Markets & Street Food Stops – From steaming kachoris to the legendary Banarasi paan, taste the flavors that define this timeless city.

🔸 Hidden Gems & Local Legends – Discover untold stories and meet the people who make Varanasi what it is—sadhus, street musicians, and artisans. 

Hello there, Varanasi has many secrets that only a local could reveal. Join me on an adventure exploring the most exciting spots and getting the best experience of this magical place as possible.

Rise early at 5am, when you’ll board a vehicle destined for Assi Ghat, the southernmost entry point to the holy River Ganges. Guide explains the significance of the Ganges River in the Hindu religion. Stop at Assi Ghat to watch pilgrims bathing in the allegedly holy waters before visiting a series of temples to receive Hindu blessings. Then, head to a stadium to watch pehalwans (wrestlers) fight one another in a mud pit, before boarding a boat to cruise along the River Ganges. Your cruise concludes at Manikarnika Ghat, one of the most sacred ghats in Varanasi. The bodies of devout Hindus are cremated here in order for their ashes to be carried away by the river.

Note - Boat ride charge is extra cost 
            750₹ per person ( Minimum 2 person)

Hello, welcome to the spiritual and cultural tour of Varanasi.
I'll take you on a journey within. This walking experience is completely different from any other tour. We'll explore and experience places and things that are outside, but on this tour we'll also take a journey within. You'll not only explore the city, you'll feel it too.

Itinerary:

• Start the tour at Hotel Ganges Grand.
• Walk through Bangali Tola Gali , a narrow lane known for its street art and paintings. Next stop for a snack at Dadaji da Daba , a popular local restaurant that serves delicious chaat and other snacks.
• Next, visit Khicadi Baba Temple , a small temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
• Explore the bustling vegetable market and learn about the different types of produce grown and sold in Varanasi.
• Next, visit Dashashwamedh Ghat , one of the most famous and lively ghats in Varanasi.
• Next, visit the Nepali Temple , a unique temple built by Nepali artisans.
• Continue through the Kashi Corridor , a narrow lane that connects several ghats.
• Finally, visit the Burning Ghat, where cremations take place around the clock. Learn about the customs and traditions surrounding death in Varanasi and gain a unique perspective on life and death in the city.
• The tour ends at Burning Ghat and the guide will be happy to help you arrange transportation back to your hotel or next destination.

I reply Forward

Hello, dear travelers I am Rituraj from Varanasi.
Here In the city of Varanasi there are a lot of things to see, and feel especially the food and several temples and cultural activities.

This tour will take 3 hrs time as well and in this tour, I will take you to show all the famous and important temples of Varanasi, especially the temples which are situated in narrow galleries, which you may reach by walking only.
All temples are quite old and Have much importance. some temples like:
1. Kashi Raj Kali
2. Saakta mata
3. Aarma visheswar Mahadev
4. Kashi vishwanath temple
5. Kal bhairav temple
6. Kishalakshi mata temple.
And many more

Hello,
I'm Pradeep and I would love to show you my hometown and help you unveil its secrets.
Varanasi has many hidden corners and it's always a pleasure to share them with our estimated walkers.
Come with me on an adventure!

Discover the Soul of Varanasi – A Journey Through Time, Culture, and Spirituality

Join me for an unforgettable walk through the world’s oldest living city, where every street has a story and every stone holds centuries of history. This is not just a tour – it’s a living experience of Varanasi’s heart and soul.

We’ll explore:

Ghats of the Ganga – Witness the spiritual rhythm of life, from serene morning rituals to the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat.

Kashi Vishwanath Corridor – See the sacred temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, a place of immense devotion and vibrant energy.

Ancient Lanes & Markets – Lose yourself in the winding alleys filled with local crafts, street food, music, and hidden shrines.

Cultural & Culinary Delights – Taste authentic Banarasi chai, paan, and snacks while hearing fascinating tales of the city’s heritage.

Historic Sites – Visit temples, stepwells, and architectural marvels that reveal the rich history of Kashi.
Why choose this tour?

Because it’s not just about sightseeing – it’s about feeling Varanasi. You’ll hear legends passed down through generations, learn about local traditions, and connect with the spiritual heartbeat of India. Whether it’s the glow of the evening lamps on the river or the aroma of fresh jalebis in the bazaar, every moment will be a memory you’ll carry forever.

Hello travellers, here I am Mitali your Varanasi tour guide.

Here I can share some places of Varanasi which you covered in your short trip.

• At evening 4 o clock we meet and visit some important temples like Kashi Vishwanath and Sankat Mochan.
• Then at 5 we go for a boat ride at Dashaswamedh Ghat and we covered all ghats by boat.
• 6 o'clock we see Varanasi special evening ceremony at Dashaswamedh Ghat.
• At 7:30 we go for some local foods of Varanasi. 

For more information about this short trip just message me.
Thank you.