Travelling Ghats of Varanasi Doesn't Have To Be Hard.
Ghats of Varanasi, often referred to as the spiritual heart of India, is one of the oldest cities in the world. It’s a place where time stands still, where the sacred River Ganga flows, and where age-old traditions continue to thrive. The city, also known as Kashi or Benares, is the epitome of India’s rich culture and spirituality. For budget-conscious travelers and students, Varanasi offers an unforgettable experience that doesn’t require spending a fortune. From its mesmerizing ghats to flavorful street food, Varanasi is a destination that everyone should explore from vibrant ghats of varanasi to street food, exploring this city doesn’t have to break the bank.
Spiritual and Cultural Beauty Ghats of Varanasi
Ghats of Varanasi: The city is home to over 80 ghats, with Dashashwamedh Ghat and Assi Ghat being the most popular. The sight of the evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat is mesmerizing. It’s a ritualistic offering to the river, accompanied by music, fire, and chanting—a sight not to be missed.
Temples and Spiritual Sites: Varanasi is dotted with temples like the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. You can also visit the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple or Durga Temple for a quiet moment of reflection
Cultural Immersion: Beyond its spiritual aura, Varanasi is also a hub of classical Indian music, dance, and art. If you’re lucky, you might catch a live sitar or tabla performance in one of the smaller ghats or temples.
Mouth Watering Foods
No trip to Varanasi is complete without indulging in its unique street food. The city is a paradise for food lovers, and you don’t need to spend much to enjoy its delicious offerings.
Kachori Sabzi: A typical breakfast item in Varanasi, it’s a filling and flavorful dish made of deep-fried bread (kachori) served with spicy potato curry (sabzi). You can find it in almost every street corner, with prices as low as ₹20-30.
Banarasi Chaat: If you’re a fan of street food, you have to try Banarasi chaat. Tamatar Chaat, a unique take on this classic, is an explosion of flavors. Other options include aloo tikki and dahi puri, all within a pocket-friendly range.
Banarasi Paan: End your meal with the iconic Banarasi paan, a betel leaf delicacy that locals swear by. It’s refreshing, flavorful, and very affordable!
Lassi: Cool down with a glass of sweet or salted lassi, a yogurt-based drink served in traditional earthen cups. Prices typically range from ₹20 to ₹50.
Malaiyo: If you’re visiting Varanasi in the winter months, try Malaiyo, a light, frothy dessert made from milk and saffron. It’s a seasonal delicacy, and a must-try if you’re visiting between November and February.
What to do in Ghats of Varanasi
While Ghats of Varanasi is often associated with religious tourism, it has plenty of activities for budget-conscious travelers.
Sarnath: Just a short ride from Ghats of Varanasi, Sarnath is where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after enlightenment. Entry to the site is either free or minimal, and it’s a peaceful spot to reflect on history and spirituality.
Explore the Local Markets: Varanasi is famous for its silk sarees and handicrafts. Even if you’re not planning to buy, wandering through markets like Godowlia and Thateri Bazaar is an experience in itself.
Visit the Ramnagar Fort: Located on the opposite bank of the Ganga, this historic fort offers stunning views of the river. The entry fee is minimal, and you can explore the museum housed within, which features vintage cars, medieval weapons, and artifacts from Varanasi’s royal family.
Traveling in Varanasi on a Budget
Getting around Ghats of Varanasi can be both convenient and affordable.
- Local Transport: Auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws are the best ways to navigate the city. For students and budget travelers, sharing auto-rickshaws is a great option that cuts costs.
- Walking Tours: One of the best ways to experience the city is on foot. Walking tours are an excellent way to explore the narrow lanes of the old city, bustling markets, and hidden gems.
- Boat Rides: A sunrise or sunset boat ride on the Ganga is a must! These rides are affordable and offer a different perspective of the ghats and temples. Group boat rides cost much less, so team up with fellow travelers to save.
Affordable Places to Stay
Ghats of Varanasi offers a wide range of budget accommodations, perfect for students and budget-conscious travelers.
Hostels: Ghats of Varanasi has a growing number of backpacker hostels that offer affordable dormitory beds starting from ₹300-500 per night. Hostels like Zostel, GoStops, and Moustache Varanasi are popular among young travelers.
Guesthouses: Guesthouses along the ghats are another affordable option, offering basic amenities and a great location for as little as ₹500-800 per night. Many guesthouses offer rooms with river views at budget prices.
Ashrams: For a more spiritual stay, consider an ashram. Some ashrams offer accommodation to travelers at minimal rates, often with the option to participate in meditation or yoga sessions.
Unique Experience
- Boat Ride at Sunrise: Witness the ethereal beauty of the ghats as the first rays of the sun illuminate the city. It’s the best way to soak in the spiritual vibe of the Ganges.
- Evening Ganga Aarti: Don’t miss the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh or Assi Ghat, where priests perform intricate rituals with lamps, incense, and chanting that captivate all who watch.
- Walking through Narrow Lanes: Exploring the labyrinth of Varanasi’s narrow lanes will give you an authentic feel of the city’s ancient charm. Every corner reveals something fascinating, from hidden shrines to local craftspeople at work.
Ghats of Varanasi is a city that leaves a lasting impression on the soul with its deep spiritual aura, culinary delights, and vibrant streets. Whether you’re a pilgrim or a traveler, the city has something special to offer at every turn.
Festivals and Events
- Dev Deepawali: Celebrated 15 days after Diwali, this festival lights up the ghats of Varanasi with thousands of oil lamps. The entire city seems to glow, making it one of the most visually captivating experiences in Varanasi.
- Nag Nathaiya: Held in November, this festival celebrates the life of Lord Krishna and features a performance where a young boy enacts Krishna’s defeat of Kaliya, the snake demon, on the banks of the Ganges.
5 Tips for Budget Travelers
1. Embrace the Early Morning Vibes: Start your day early to witness the serene beauty of Varanasi’s ghats. The morning Ganga Aarti at Assi Ghat, followed by a boat ride at sunrise, offers a peaceful experience and a glimpse into the city’s spiritual essence before the crowds arrive.
2. Dress Modestly: Varanasi is a deeply spiritual and traditional city, so it’s important to dress conservatively, especially when visiting temples and participating in rituals at the ghats. Opt for loose, comfortable clothing to respect the local customs and to stay cool in the heat.
3. Stay Near the Ghats: If possible, book your accommodation near the main ghats of varanasi like Dashashwamedh or Assi Ghat. This will put you within walking distance of key attractions, temples, and the river, making it easier to explore without spending much on transportation.
4. Bargain in the Local Markets: Varanasi’s markets, like Godowlia and Vishwanath Gali, are perfect for souvenirs, especially silk sarees, handicrafts, and spices. Be prepared to bargain, as the initial prices quoted to tourists can be high. Polite but firm negotiation is expected and part of the experience.
5. Respect the Rituals: When attending the Ganga Aarti or visiting sacred sites, be mindful of the local customs. Many rituals may seem foreign, but they are deeply meaningful to the local population. Observing respectfully, avoiding selfies during prayers, and following the instructions given by priests will ensure a smoother experience.
Varanasi is more than just a destination; it’s an experience. Whether it’s walking along the ghats at sunrise, exploring ancient temples, or tasting local street food, this city offers a rich and rewarding journey into India’s past and present.
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