10 best things to do in Varanasi

Varanasi has a whole lot to offer to devotees and tourists alike. From delectable food to ancient temples and its bustling ghats, Varanasi (also Kashi) is the place to be if you seek complete cultural immersion. Here are 10 best things to do in the holy city.

Start your morning with a hot plate of kachori sabji for breakfast. People start queuing up outside shops as early as 5 am to get their hands on a plate of the local breakfast favourite.

For a little sightseeing, head to Ramangar Fort and take a step back in time. Built by Maharaja Balwant Singh in 1705 on the eastern bank of the Ganges, it blends Indian and Islamic architectural styles beautifully.

Feeling a little thirsty? Head to Shiv Prasad Lassi Bhandar, a 100-year-old shop that continues to serve authentic Banarasi lassi.

Founded in 1916 by Madan Mohan Malaviya, Banaras Hindu University is Asia's largest residential university. It is a living embodiment of the collective vision of greats such as Madan Mohan Malaviya, Dr Annie Besant and Dr S. Radhakrishnan.

Time for a break from all that walking around. Try the famous cold coffee at Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple on BHU Campus.

Next, head to Chittanpura to get your hands on the famous Banarasi sarees. The first sounds you'll hear are the handloom machines at work with almost every house weaving the iconic fabric.

Time for something sweet. Head to Laxmi Chaiwale for their famous malai toast and chai.

Chase that sweet taste with a desi favourite: paan. For the best in the city, head to Netaji Paan Bhandar, a shop that's been around since before India got independence. 

This mandir is one of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines and sees lakhs of devotees daily. A visit here is a must.

Ganga aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat is a sight to behold. There are three ways to do this: on the ghat, while boating and on a cruise on either Alaknanda or Bhagirati cruise vessels.