Uncover the Lesser-Known Wonders of Kashi
Varanasi is often seen through the lens of spirituality and temples, but for those who look deeper, it reveals a beautiful world of heritage, flavors, music, and human stories. This blog is a perfect guide for domestic travelers who have visited the famous temples and are now ready to explore the real essence of Varanasi — beyond its religious façade.
Dive Into Varanasi’s Cultural Pulse
Music that Moves the Soul
Varanasi is a city where music flows in the air. It’s the birthplace of classical music legends like Pandit Ravi Shankar and Ustad Bismillah Khan. Evenings often bring alive the sound of sitar, tabla, and shehnai at local events, especially at Assi Ghat, where cultural programs are held regularly.
Art in Every Corner
Walk through the narrow lanes of Chowk and Bengali Tola, and you’ll find artists painting gods on walls, hand-carving wooden toys, and creating brass lamps. Varanasi is not just a spiritual hub; it's a living museum of traditional Indian craftsmanship.
A Culinary Journey Through the Streets
Start with a Banarasi Breakfast
Kick off your day with Kachori-Sabzi and Jalebi — a staple in every Banarasi household. You’ll find the most authentic ones at Ram Bhandar in Thatheri Bazaar or Shri Rajbandhu in Godowlia.
Midday Snacks You Shouldn’t Miss
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Tamatar Chaat – A spicy, tangy twist you’ll only find in Varanasi
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Choora Matar – Flattened rice tossed with peas, chilies, and ghee
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Baati Chokha – A rustic, smoky delicacy from Bhojpuri kitchens
End on a Sweet Note
Whether it’s Malaiyyo in winter or Lassi with cream in summer, Varanasi knows how to serve dessert in style. Don’t forget the Banarasi Paan — it’s not just food, it’s an experience.
Walk Off the Beaten Path
The Weavers of Madanpura
Behind every Banarasi saree is a story. Visit the lanes of Madanpura or Lallapura to witness master weavers creating intricate silk sarees by hand — a craft passed down for generations.
Literary & Intellectual Spots
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Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum (inside BHU) – Rare sculptures, manuscripts, and art
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Saraswati Bhawan Library – One of the oldest collections of texts and books in India
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Local book cafés and cultural hubs around Assi Ghat and Sigra
Unique Experiences
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Join a yoga session by the river at dawn
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Take a heritage walk through Vishwanath Gali
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Learn Banarasi cooking in a local kitchen
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Attend a Sanskrit class or musical baithak at a gurukul
Lesser-Known Places to Visit
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Ramnagar Fort – Located across the Ganga, it offers a glimpse into royal Banaras
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Gyan Vapi Well – A historic site within the Kashi Vishwanath corridor
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Kedar Ghat – Less crowded, yet deeply spiritual and scenic
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Lanka Market – For affordable clothes, accessories, and quick bites
Tips for Culture-Focused Travelers
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Start early to beat the crowd and heat
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Talk to locals — they’ll guide you to hidden gems
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Avoid weekends if you want a quieter experience
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Respect traditions, even when you're off the temple trail
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Use guided tours for local insights — or book with Shivakashi Travels for authentic experiences
Experience Kashi Like Never Before
Temples are just the beginning. The real Varanasi lives in its ghats, galis, kitchens, and karigars (craftsmen). To truly feel its heartbeat, you have to walk slowly, observe deeply, and let yourself get lost in its charm.
Let Shivakashi Travels help you go beyond the brochure — and into the heart of Banaras.
Book a cultural experience with us today:
👉 https://shivakashitravels.com
Hand Boat Booking in Varanasi
During Ganga Aarti boat parked in front of Ceremoney at Dashaswamedh Ghat.
Ghats Cover: Assi Ghat, Tulsi Ghat, Janki Ghat, Jain Ghat, Prabhu Ghat, Chet Singh Ghat, Niranjani Ghat, Shivala Ghat, Hanuman Ghat, Harishchandra Ghat, Narad Ghat, Pandey Ghat, Dashaswamedh Ghat, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat,.and so on NAMO Ghat
| Evening Ganga Aarti Time ? | 06:45 PM-07:30 PM |
| Boat Type | Private Motor Boat (Diesel/CNG/Petrol) |
| Reporting Time | 05:15 PM |
| Boat Ride Timing | 05:30 PM-07:45 PM (2hr) |
| Price 1-6 Pax (If more than 6+) ₹ 299/- Person | |
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Private Motor Boat (Capacity 15 Pax) |
₹ 3,499/-* (Assi- Manikarnika) 3.5km- 50 Ghats |
The same Boat shown in the Image is based on subject to availability. Due to High Demand Saturday, and Sunday or Same day Boat may be subject to availability. For Booking Confirmation WhatsApp us.
* Note: Please note Rates may be subject to change based on availability, Weather Conditions, Group Size, and Special Requests. Please call ahead for Pricing and Reservation for DEV DEEPAVALI.
| Meeting Point | Ghat |
| Languages | English, HindiHindi |
| Includes |
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PRIVATE HAND BOAT BOOKING IN VARANASI
PRIVATE MUSICAL BOAT RIDE IN VARANASI
PRIVATE BAJRA BOAT BOOKING VARANASI
PRIVATE MOTOR BOAT BOOKING IN VARANASI
