Journey to the Heart of India: Discovering Varanasi in 3 Days

Varanasi, also known as Benares or Kashi, is one of the oldest cities in the world and a popular pilgrimage destination in India. The city is located on the banks of the River Ganges and is considered one of Hinduism's holiest places. In this travel blog, I'll take you through the different ways of reaching Varanasi and share some interesting facts about this city.

Reaching Varanasi:

By Air: Varanasi has its own airport, Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, which is well connected to major cities in India and abroad. From the airport, you can take a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to reach your destination in the city.

By Train: Varanasi is well connected to major cities in India by train. The city has two railway stations, Varanasi Junction and Manduadih Railway Station. You can book your train tickets in advance to ensure a comfortable journey.

By Road: Varanasi is well connected to major cities in Uttar Pradesh and other neighbouring states by road. You can take a bus from Delhi, Agra, Lucknow, and other cities to reach Varanasi.

Street Food in Varanasi:

Varanasi is a food lover's paradise and is famous for its street food. From spicy chaats to sweet lassis, the city has a wide variety of street food that is a must-try for every traveller. Here are some popular street food items and places to try them:

Banarasi Pan: A must-try if you are in the city.

Malaiyo: Malaiyo is a sweet, creamy dessert made of milk and is a speciality of Varanasi. It is best enjoyed on a hot summer day and is a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth. You can try it at several street-side stalls in the city or at local sweet shops.

Thandai: Thandai is a refreshing drink made of almonds, cardamom, fennel, and other spices. It is a popular drink during the summer months and is best enjoyed in the evening while taking a stroll along the Ghats. You can try it at local street-side stalls or at local sweet shops.

Chaat: Chaat is a popular street food item in Varanasi and is a must-try for anyone who loves spicy food. From aloo chaat to paapdi chaat, there are a variety of chaat items available in the city. You can try it at local street-side stalls or at local chaat shops.

Lassi: Lassi is a sweet and creamy yoghurt-based drink that is a popular drink in Varanasi. It is best enjoyed in the morning or in the evening and is a great way to cool off on a hot day. You can try it at local street-side stalls or at local sweet shops.

Three-Day Itinerary in Varanasi:

Day 1:

Morning Arti at Assi Ghat: Start your day with a spiritual experience by witnessing the Morning Arti at Assi Ghat. The arti ceremony takes place every day at sunrise and is a beautiful sight to behold.

Sarnath: After the Arti, head to Sarnath, which is located 10 km from Varanasi. Sarnath is a sacred site for Buddhists as it was here that Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment.

Kal Bhairav Temple: Next, visit the Kal Bhairav Temple, which is dedicated to the Hindu god of death and is considered to be one of the most important temples in Varanasi.

Day 2:

Ramnagar Fort: Start your day by visiting the Ramnagar Fort, which is located across the River Ganges. The fort was built in the 18th century and is a beautiful example of Mughal architecture.

Ghats: In the evening, head back to the Ghats and take a boat ride from Harishchandra Ghat to Manikarnika Ghat. The boat ride will give you a unique perspective of the city and its Ghats.

Manikarnika Ghat: Manikarnika Ghat is known for its association with death and is considered one of Varanasi's most important Ghats. Witnessing the ultimate truth of life, i.e. death is a humbling experience.

Day 3:

Lal Khan Tomb: Start your day by visiting the Lal Khan Tomb, which is a 14th-century monument that is believed to be the tomb of a Muslim saint.

Namo Ghat: After visiting the tomb, head to Namo Ghat, which is one of the less crowded Ghats in Varanasi.

Dasaswamedh Ghat: In the evening, witness the spectacular evening Arti at Dasaswamedh Ghat, which is one of the most popular Ghats in Varanasi.

Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Finally, visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, which is considered to be one of the most important Hindu temples in India. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and attracts a large number of pilgrims every year.