Half-Day Street Food Walking Tour in Varanasi

Varanasi , India

Half-Day Street Food Walking Tour in Varanasi

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

Varanasi is a place where people like to eat only breakfast, sweets, and snacks. Meals are easy to skip in the process because snacks and sweets are all-day options at almost all the eateries.

Join us as we walk through the bylanes to the best of the food joints, savoring Malaiyo, Tamatar Chaat, Kalakand, Malai Toast, Maalpuas, Gol-Gappas, Banarasi Paan, and much more! And relish in not just the mouth-watering delicacies but also in hearty conversations with their Banarasi makers.
A big appetite, loose pants, and comfortable walking shoes are a must!

Available options

Half-Day Street Food Walking Tour in Varanasi

Pickup included

What's included

Transportation to and from the hotel in AC vehicle

Two bottles (250 ml) of water per person

Food sampling at reputed vendor stalls

Local English speaking guide

All applicable taxes

Detailed itinerary

The lively and labyrinthine Varanasi streets, famous for their hidden historical gems, are also home to some of the most delectable desserts and street food options, whose recipes have been perfected over centuries!

What's not included

Gratuities

Expenditures of a personal nature, drinks and meals if not stated explicitly in the programme

Any service not listed in the inclusions

Extra fee US$ 20 for pick-up from hotels outside the radius of 5 Kms from the city center

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Minimum age is 14 yrs

Maximum vehicle size is 6 passengers

If you have limited mobility, please let us know in advance

This activity is subject to cancellation based on inclement weather

Guided language tours are available

Please do mention before the arrival if you have any sort of allergies

All the food is bought from reputed vendors, but in case your stomach is sensitive we advise that you take necessary precautions

Please be ready and waiting in your hotel lobby 15 minutes prior to your scheduled pick-up time

You must contact Le Passage to India at least 24 hours before your activity date to confirm your reservation and arrange transportation. Use the contact and email details on the voucher/ticket

Upon pickup, please present your printed voucher and photo ID in exchange for your activity. Le Passage to India will respond within 24 hours to confirm your pickup time

As we travel through crowded areas, it is recommended that you dress in full-length trousers and half/ full sleeve tops

Pickup is included from most centrally located hotels; if your hotel falls outside this area you may need to pay a supplement for hotel pickup.US$ 20 is the supplement for pick-up from hotels outside the radius of 5 Kms from the city center.

Important notes

You must contact Le Passage to India at least 24 hours before your activity date to confirm your reservation and arrange transportation. Use one of the contacts on this voucher:
+91 120 3341962 / 91-9971804040 / ashvini@lpti.in
Upon pickup, please present your printed voucher and photo ID in exchange for your activity. Le Passage to India will respond within 24 hours to confirm your pickup time.

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.