Varanasi's Flavors and Heritage with Tournivaljourneys: Food & Walk Tours

Discover Varanasi Through a Culinary and Cultural Walking Tour

Nestled on the banks of the sacred Ganges River, Varanasi—also known as Kashi or Banaras—is one of the oldest and most culturally rich cities in the world. Known for its historic ghats, temples, and spiritual ambiance, Varanasi is a city that delights the senses in every possible way. But beyond the spirituality and history, there’s an unsung aspect of this city waiting to be explored: its vibrant street food and bustling local markets. For travelers looking to immerse themselves in the flavors and colors of Varanasi, a combined food and walk tour in Varanasi is the ultimate experience.

Why Choose a Food and Walk Tour in Varanasi?

Experiencing Varanasi’s food culture and walking through its intricate alleys provides a unique insight into the soul of this ancient city. A food tour in Varanasi isn’t just about tasting local dishes; it’s a journey through time, culture, and heritage. Combining a food tour with a walk tour allows visitors to truly soak in the city’s diverse elements. From the aromas of spices wafting through the air to the sounds of temple bells and traditional music, each street has its own story.

Highlights of the Food and Walk Tour

Here’s what you can expect from an unforgettable food and walk tour in Varanasi:

1. Starting at Assi Ghat: A Cultural Awakening

Begin your day at Assi Ghat, one of the most vibrant ghats in Varanasi. Known for its morning Ganga Aarti, Assi Ghat offers a perfect introduction to the city’s spiritual atmosphere. While the Aarti happens in the early morning, the ghats come alive throughout the day with locals and travelers, offering an opportunity to witness the blending of life, faith, and culture.

As you stroll along the ghats, you’ll see sadhus, musicians, and yoga enthusiasts—a glimpse into the life of Varanasi. Here, you can try a glass of freshly prepared lassi, a creamy yogurt drink that’s a staple in Varanasi. The lassi is often topped with a layer of thick cream and a sprinkle of saffron, pistachio, and rose petals.

2. Exploring Kachori Gali: A Food Lover’s Delight

No food tour in Varanasi is complete without a visit to Kachori Gali. As the name suggests, this narrow lane is famous for its kachori—a savory pastry filled with spiced lentils, served with tangy potato curry. The aroma of kachoris frying in large pans is enough to make any passerby stop for a taste.

In addition to kachori, the street offers other local delights such as jalebi (a crispy, sweet treat) and malaiyyo, a frothy winter delicacy made from milk and flavored with cardamom and saffron. Exploring Kachori Gali is like stepping into a food lover’s paradise, with stalls that have been serving these treats for generations.

3. Walking Through Vishwanath Gali: Temples and Treats

A walk through Vishwanath Gali is a journey into the heart of Varanasi. This bustling street leads to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most revered temples in India. But Vishwanath Gali is not just about spirituality; it’s also a hub for traditional shopping and food.

As you navigate the crowd, you’ll come across shops selling colorful bangles, silk sarees, brass idols, and religious paraphernalia. Don’t miss the chance to try thandai here—a chilled drink made from milk, almonds, and spices, often associated with Hindu festivities. For the adventurous, there’s even a “bhang” version, which includes a hint of cannabis, commonly consumed during festivals like Holi.

4. The Famous Blue Lassi Shop

A short walk from the ghats will bring you to the legendary Blue Lassi Shop, a must-visit spot for anyone on a food tour in Varanasi. This small, humble shop has been serving fresh, handmade lassis for over 75 years. The menu offers a wide variety of flavors, from banana and mango to pomegranate and rose.

The lassi here is thick, creamy, and served in earthen cups, giving it an authentic feel. The walls are adorned with notes and photographs from travelers all over the world, giving you a sense of the community spirit that exists in this tiny corner of Varanasi.

5. Exploring the Street Food Scene: Chaats, Golgappas, and More

Varanasi is a paradise for street food lovers, and a food tour wouldn’t be complete without trying the city’s popular chaats and golgappas. These tangy, spicy, and crispy snacks are found on almost every street corner and are an integral part of the local food culture.

The tamatar chaat, a unique version made with tomatoes, mashed potatoes, spices, and a tangy tamarind sauce, is a crowd favorite. Similarly, the banarasi aloo tikki—a spiced potato patty topped with yogurt, chutney, and sev (crunchy noodles)—is a delightful blend of flavors and textures.

6. Sunset Walk along the Ghats: A Tranquil Experience

After a day filled with delicious food and bustling markets, end your tour with a peaceful walk along the ghats at sunset. The evening Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat is an experience that captivates all who witness it. Priests perform the ritual with large lamps, accompanied by chants and the ringing of bells, as the sun dips below the horizon.

The serenity of the Ganges and the sight of hundreds of floating diyas (small oil lamps) create a mystical atmosphere. This part of the walk tour serves as a beautiful conclusion to your journey through Varanasi’s rich culinary and cultural landscape.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Food and Walk Tour in Varanasi

• Stay Hydrated: The streets of Varanasi can be busy and the weather hot, so be sure to drink plenty of water as you explore.

• Dress Modestly: Varanasi is a spiritual city, and dressing respectfully is appreciated, especially around temples and religious sites.

• Travel with a Guide: Varanasi’s narrow alleys can be confusing, and a knowledgeable guide will help you navigate the best food spots and hidden gems.

• Bring Cash: Most of the food stalls and local shops prefer cash, so make sure to have some rupees on hand for easy transactions.

A Journey to Remember

A food and walk tour in Varanasi is more than just sightseeing and tasting—it’s an opportunity to connect with the local way of life. As you walk through the winding lanes, stop at ancient temples, and savor the flavors of Banarasi street food, you’ll discover that Varanasi is a city that doesn’t just welcome you; it transforms you.

Varanasi is a blend of the old and the new, a place where traditions live on, flavors are preserved, and every corner has a story to tell. Through this immersive experience, you’ll come to appreciate why Varanasi is not only a destination but a lifelong memory.

Varanasi's Flavors and Heritage with Tournivaljourneys: Food & Walk Tours