Hidden Secrets of Varanasi: Vibrant Tradition (Guided Tour)

Varanasi , India

Hidden Secrets of Varanasi: Vibrant Tradition (Guided Tour)

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About this experience

We are local guides. Our families have lived for many generations in Varanasi allowing us to know every hidden corner of this beautiful and ancient city, along with fascinating stories about our traditions, history, religion, and ordinary people like ourselves.

Varanasi represents the soul of India. A visitor alone can never hope to uncover more than a fraction of its secrets. Still, with our help, you will be able to discover the essence of this captivating city.

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 food stalls, but also less touristic spots that are key to understanding the reality of modern Varanasi.

During our tour, we 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.

Available options

Hidden Secrets of Varanasi: Vibrant Tradition (Guided Tour)

What's included

Bottled water

Coffee and/or Tea

Detailed itinerary

Dashaswamedh Ghat:- Dashashwamedh ghat is one of the oldest, most spectacular and important ghat, located at the bank of the river Gange near to the old Vishwanath Temple in the Kashi. The literal meaning of the Dashashwamedh is the Ghat (river front) of the ten sacrificed horses (dash means 10, ashwa means horse, medh means sacrifice).
There are two mythologies about the ghat is that the Lord Brahma was created the Dashashwamedh ghat in order to welcome the Lord Shiva, and the second one is the Lord Brahma was sacrificed the ten horses in a yajna here. This ghat is famous for the Agni Pooja which is held here daily in the evening by a group of the priest who are dedicated to the Lord Shiva, River Ganges, Surya, Agni as well as the whole universe.

The Vishalakshi Temple, also known as Vishalakshi Gauri Temple, is one of the prominent temples of Varanasi that belongs to the Goddess Vishalakshi. The Goddess Vishalakshi is an aspect of the goddess Parvati or Gauri and is believed to have large eyes as the name also says ‘Vishalakshi = Vishal (big) + akshi (eyes).’ It is located at the Mir Ghat on the banks of the Ganga River.
The temple is considered as a Shakti Pitha dedicated to the Hindu Divine Mother, Adi Shakti. The popular holy place in Varanasi is part of the famous triad of temples, Kanchi Kamakshi, Madurai Meenakshi, and Kashi Visalakshi.
It is considered that the earrings or kundal of the Goddess Sati had fallen here.

Nepali Temple:- Shri Samrajeswar Pashupatinath Mahadev Mandir, also known as the Nepali Mandir, Kanthwala Mandir and Mini Khajuraho, is one of the oldest and most famous temples in the holy city of Varanasi. This temple has great religious importance in Hinduism and is dedicated to the Lord Shiva.
The mandir is made of terracotta, stone and wood and took three decades to complete. The wood is termite proof. It is constructed in Nepali style of architecture and is surrounded by tamarind and ficus religiosa (peepal) trees.

Stop 4

Manikarnika Ghat:- This Ghat is famous for being the sacred cremation ground for Hindus. Manikarnika Ghat is one of the holiest cremation grounds among the sacred riverfronts (Ghats), alongside the river Ganges. In Hinduism, death is considered a gateway to another life marked by the result of one's karma. It is believed that a human's soul attains moksha, and hence breaks the cycle of rebirth when cremated here.The well at the ghat is called Manikarnika Kund and was built by Lord Vishnu.

According to Lord Vishnu, devotees who take bath in Manikarnika and worship Manikarnikeshwar will not see mother’s womb again (meaning – there will be no rebirth).

The linga is located underground, devotees can go all the way down to have a darshan of Shri Manikarnikeshwar Mahadev.

What's not included

Food and drink, Transportation

Available languages

Guide guide

HI EN

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Tripadvisor 5.0

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Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Our meeting point will at Rajendra Prasad Ghat, infront of Virtual experiential museum
And the Guide will be standing infront of the Entrance of the Museum

Important notes

Please arrive at the meeting point at least 10 minutes before the start of the tour.

About Varanasi

Varanasi, one of the oldest living cities in the world, is a spiritual and cultural hub on the banks of the Ganges River. Known for its ancient temples, vibrant ghats (riverfront steps), and rich cultural heritage, it offers a profound experience of India's spiritual traditions and historical depth.

Top Attractions

Kashi Vishwanath Temple

One of the most sacred Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is a major pilgrimage site. The temple's golden spire and intricate architecture are awe-inspiring.

Religious 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Dasaswamedh Ghat

One of the most famous ghats in Varanasi, Dasaswamedh Ghat is a bustling hub of activity. It's known for its evening Ganga Aarti, a spectacular ritual of worshipping the Ganges River.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (boat rides cost INR 200-500)

Sarnath

A significant Buddhist pilgrimage site, Sarnath is where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. It's home to several ancient stupas, temples, and museums.

Historical Half day Free (entry fees for some sites)

Manikarnika Ghat

One of the oldest and most sacred ghats in Varanasi, Manikarnika Ghat is primarily used for cremation ceremonies. It's a profound and moving experience to witness the rituals here.

Religious 1-2 hours Free

Banaras Hindu University (BHU)

Founded by Madan Mohan Malaviya, BHU is one of India's most prestigious universities. The campus is vast and beautiful, with museums, temples, and lush gardens.

Educational 2-3 hours Free (entry fees for some sites)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kachori

A deep-fried, spiced pastry filled with a mixture of lentils, onions, and spices. It's a popular street food item in Varanasi.

Breakfast Vegetarian

Peda

A sweet made from condensed milk and sugar, often flavored with cardamom. Banarasi peda is famous for its rich and creamy texture.

Dessert Vegetarian

Malaiyo

A traditional Banarasi sweet made from reduced milk, sugar, and saffron. It's often served during festivals and special occasions.

Dessert Vegetarian

Chaat

A savory snack made with a variety of ingredients like potatoes, onions, chickpeas, and tangy tamarind sauce. It's a popular street food item.

Snack Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Boat rides on the Ganges River Exploring narrow alleys and hidden temples Meditation and yoga sessions Attending the Ganga Aarti at Dasaswamedh Ghat Visiting ancient temples and historical sites Swimming in the Ganges River (not recommended due to pollution) Attending winter festivals and fairs Visiting historical sites and museums

Best Time to Visit

October to March

This period offers pleasant weather, making it ideal for sightseeing and participating in various festivals. The city is lively with tourists and pilgrims.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Hindi
Widely spoken: English, Bhojpuri
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other areas

Currency

Indian Rupee (INR)

Time Zone

GMT+5:30

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Varanasi is generally safe for tourists, but pickpocketing, scams, and petty crime can occur, especially in crowded areas. Be cautious and aware of your surroundings, and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Use common sense and stay alert
• Avoid walking alone at night
• Be cautious of strangers and touts

Getting there

By air

Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport • 24 km from city center

By train

Varanasi Junction, Manduar Diara

By bus

Varanasi Bus Stand, Sarnath Bus Stand

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common form of public transport in Varanasi. They are affordable but can be crowded.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Ola, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Varanasi Sarnath Cantt (Cantonment)

Day trips

Sarnath

10 km from Varanasi • Half day to full day

Sarnath is a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site, known for its ancient stupas, temples, and museums. It's a peaceful and historically rich area, offering a contrast to the bustling old city of Varanasi.

Chunar

55 km from Varanasi • Full day

Chunar is a historic town known for its ancient fort, located on the banks of the Ganges River. The fort offers panoramic views of the river and surrounding countryside.

Rajghat

20 km from Varanasi • Half day

Rajghat is an ancient site located on the banks of the Ganges River, known for its historic significance and scenic beauty. It's a peaceful and serene place to visit, offering a break from the bustling city of Varanasi.

Festivals

Diwali • October or November (dates vary by lunar calendar) Maha Shivaratri • February or March (dates vary by lunar calendar) Ganga Mahotsav • November (dates vary by year)

Pro tips

Hire a local guide to navigate the city's narrow alleys and hidden temples.
Attend the Ganga Aarti at Dasaswamedh Ghat for a spectacular and moving cultural experience.
Try local street food and sweets, but be cautious and choose stalls with high turnover and good hygiene practices.
Dress modestly and respectfully, especially when visiting temples and religious sites.
Use common sense and stay alert to avoid scams, pickpocketing, and petty crime.