How to explore Varanasi like a professional traveler?

I know some people who were bitten by the travel bug and have traveled to most parts of the earth. And let me tell you there is one common thing that I see in these professional travelers: they all are always prepared.

Be it carrying a good camera, having a fair understanding of the place that they are about to go and explore, or securing an accommodation even before they set a foot in that city, the professional travelers are always prepared for the expected and not expected. And this is what you should learn from this breed of travelers if you too are bitten by the travel bug, or travel casually.

Herein this post, I will share with you 5 unusual tips to explore one of world’s oldest cities. Yes, I am talking about the city of Varanasi, which many still call ‘Banaras’ or ‘Kashi’.


#Tip 1

Never forget doing the homework – though it is utter common sense, still many tend to ignore it

Sit down for an hour or two. Go to Google and check for websites that offer you information on Varanasi. Now write down on a piece of paper the places you would love to visit in Varanasi.

For example, there are hundreds of temples in this city. But, Vishwanath Temple is the most popular of the lot. Same goes with the ghats of Varanasi; there are about 100 ghats that line the river Ganges. Some are ancient and some are relatively newly built.

Sit down, read through pages after pages, and write down how exactly you want to spend your days in Varanasi.

This one hour of homework will help you explore the city like a pro traveller.


#Tip 2

Do not stretch – just limit the places on your travel radar

If you will be in Varanasi for 2 or 3 days, then I would advise you to limit the things that you want to do here. Going 100 places isn’t a good option if you are not able to see the things in all their glory. List down only a couple of places and activities that you believe you can manage.

Speak with a professional tour and travel agency in Varanasi and see what they have to say about it; I mean a local agency can help you with accommodation in Varanasi as well as transport.


#Tip 3

You must be there… to witness Ganga Arti in the evening (worship of Ganges in the morning)

Being there at the banks of Ganges for the evening Arti is a divine experience. Hundreds and thousands of devotees gather in the evening and worship the river they call their mother.


#Tip 4

You can negotiate on almost everything in Varanasi

Whether it is about a deal of a professional tour and travel agency in Varanasi or securing a room in a hotel, you should not shy away from negotiating the price.

Remember you are in the best position to negotiate when you have not committed to the deal by paying an advance or some other way.


#Tip 5

Having someone local / experienced by your side

Whether you are going solo, or with friends or with family, if you have no idea about the city of Varanasi, you should hire a guide. Make sure you ask him about his charges in advance.

If you want someone to do it all for you – I mean hotel reservations, transport, and guide service – then I highly recommend getting in touch with a professional tour and travels agency in Varanasi.