Varanasi, also known as Banaras and Kashi, is a city situated on the banks of the Ganga River in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh.A Journey of Spirituality and Savings! Follow along as I unveil the secrets of this ancient city, share budget-friendly tips, and uncover its mesmerising attractions. Let’s dive into the heart of Varanasi together!
Route from Delhi to Varanasi
I began my journey from New Delhi to Varanasi with an overnight train ride. I booked a sleeper class ticket for Rs. 1500 as a budget-friendly option.
There are other options as well. Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS) serves Varanasi, and both state-run and private buses are available from nearby cities like Allahabad, Lucknow, Kanpur, and others.
Best Accommodation in Varanasi
Upon arriving at Varanasi Junction early in the morning, I took a pre-booked taxi to my accommodation near the Ghats for Rs. 300.
Places to visit in Varanasi
- Dashashwamedh Ghat: My exploration began at Dashashwamedh Ghat, where I witnessed the captivating Ganga Aarti ceremony. The experience was priceless, requiring no expenditure.
- Assi Ghat: A serene stroll along Assi Ghat offered breathtaking views of the river, providing a tranquil retreat at no cost.
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Visiting the revered Kashi Vishwanath Temple was a spiritual highlight. While entry to the temple is free, I contributed Rs. 100 towards offerings and donations.
- Sarnath: A short excursion to Sarnath involved hiring a taxi for a round trip, costing Rs. 600. Entrance fees to the various sites amounted to Rs. 200.
A hidden gem in Varanasi
In Varanasi, hidden gems await discovery amidst its busy streets:
- Bharat Mata Mandir: A temple dedicated to Mother India, showcasing a marble relief map of the nation.
- Kachori Gali: An alleyway offering authentic kachoris away from tourist crowds.
- Baba Thandai is famous for its traditional thandai near Vishwanath Gali.
- Man Mandir Observatory: An ancient observatory at Man Mandir Ghat with panoramic river views.
- Ramnagar Fort Museum: Across the Ganges, it houses vintage cars and royal artefacts.
These hidden gems enrich Varanasi’s charm, encouraging exploration beyond its well-known landmarks.
Best food to try in Varanasi
During my time in Varanasi, I savoured a variety of affordable culinary delights that satisfied my taste buds without breaking my budget.
- Street food favourites like Kachori Sabzi Rs.30, Aloo Tikki Rs.20, and Pani Puri Rs.20 burst with flavours in every bite.
- Traditional Thai meals of Rs.150 offered a fulfilling dining experience with dal, vegetables, rice, and roti.
- For dessert, treats like Malaiyo Rs.50 and Rabri Rs.40 delighted my sweet tooth with their rich flavours.
- I also tried samosas for Rs. 20 and masala chai for Rs. 20; they were perfect snacks.
Necessary things to pack for a memorable journey:
- Buying durable footwear for Rs. 500 for me made walking Varanasi’s streets and alleys comfy.
- I bought traditional clothes for Rs. 300 to wear while visiting temples and experiencing the culture, sticking to modest attire.
- Antibacterial hand gel or hand sanitizer.
- Any medication you take regularly.
- Snacks and food items for the route.
Tips for Travellers
- Staying hydrated with bottled water and applying sunscreen protected me from the scorching sun.
- Exploring Varanasi’s culture was priceless and made my experience unforgettable.
- From Varanasi Junction, a taxi ride to Godowlia Chowk costs Rs. 200.
- Navigating Vishwanath Gali to reach Dashashwamedh Ghat required no additional expenditure.
- A boat ride along the Ganges River, if opted for, typically costs Rs. 300 to 500, depending on the duration.
Best time to visit Varanasi
The ideal time to visit Varanasi’s attractions is from October to February, when the temperature drops. Monsoon months are July, August, and September, while summer, from March to June, sees high temperatures.
Leaving Varanasi, I cherished the priceless moments and experiences that touched my soul. My time in this ancient city wasn’t just a trip; it was a transformative journey that will always stay with me. Varanasi calls out to travellers with its timeless charm, spiritual essence, and cultural vibrancy. Whether you’re in search of enlightenment, cultural immersion, or just adventure, Varanasi guarantees a memorable journey through the essence of India, where every step is steeped in history and spirituality.
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Happy travelling, guys!!!
