Things to Do in Varanasi

The most iconic Varanasi experience. Glide past 90 ghats as the sun rises over the Ganga. Watch morning rituals, yoga practitioners, and priests performing pujas. NaviX app for fixed-price bookings.

💡 Book through NaviX app for fixed pricing. Start from Dashashwamedh for the full ghat panorama.

The spectacular daily ritual at Dashashwamedh Ghat. 21 priests perform synchronized aarti with massive brass lamps, fire, and chanting. Arrive 30-45 min early for a good spot.

💡 Arrive by 6 PM for a good spot. Or book a rooftop restaurant seat for elevated view.

Walk along the 90 ghats of Varanasi. From Assi to Manikarnika, each ghat has its own story. Watch life unfold — morning prayers, laundry, yoga, kids playing, and sadhus meditating.

💡 Start from Assi Ghat early morning. Walk north along the ghats. Carry water. Wear comfortable shoes.

Varanasi is a food paradise. Try kachori-sabzi, banarasi paan, malaiyo (winter only), rabri, thandai, and lassi from street vendors and famous shops.

💡 Must-try: Kachori Ghat (kachori-sabzi), Ram Bhandar (thandai), and Blue Lassi (lassi).

Practice yoga on the banks of the Ganges. Several schools and independent teachers offer morning sessions at Assi and other ghats. Start your day with peace.

💡 Drop-in classes at Assi. Hotel rooftop sessions also available. Best in winter (Oct-Mar).

Varanasi is a photographer's dream. Golden light at sunrise, dramatic aarti ceremonies, sadhus, colorful silk shops, and ancient architecture. Every corner is a frame.

💡 Best light: 5:30-7 AM (sunrise) and 5:30-7 PM (golden hour). Respect people's privacy before photographing.

Varanasi is famous for Banarasi silk sarees. Visit Government Silk Weaving Centre, Handloom House, or shops in Chowk and Thatheri Bazaar for authentic silk.

💡 For authentic silk, look for GI tag. Government shops are trustworthy. Bargain at private shops.

Varanasi has a rich classical music tradition. Ravi Shankar and Bismillah Khan were from here. Listen to impromptu performances at ghats, cafes, and music schools.

💡 Ask at cafes for live music schedules. Sankat Mochan Music Festival (April) is world-famous.

Varanasi has thousands of temples. Must-visit: Kashi Vishwanath, Sankat Mochan, Durga Kund, Nepali Temple, and Tulsi Manas. Each has unique architecture and history.

💡 Start with Kashi Vishwanath (early morning). Then Sankat Mochan, Durga Kund. Remove shoes at all temples.

Varanasi's famous lassi and paan are must-tries. Blue Lassi (near Godowlia) and various paan shops in Vishwanath Gali serve the best. Over 50 flavors of lassi!

💡 Try the seasonal malaiyo (winter only) and the famous banarasi paan. Don't miss thandai.