This is Travel Guide is a sequel to Travel Guide: Basics to India, so be sure to also read that for more helpful information on their culture and getting around the country!

Varanasi

Varanasi is known as one of the seven most spiritual cities in India, which is absolutely true. According to the legend, the city was founded by the god Shiva. On top of that, Buddha is believed to have founded Buddhism here. I mean, that just oozes a beautiful beginning to a spiritual city. The city is also known for being bordered by the Ganges river. This famous river is where the religious come to find Nirvana. By burning their loved ones bodies after they’ve passed, it allows for them to transcend gracefully into the after life – almost like a clean slate. With the same hustle

Blue Lassi Shop

The famous Blue Lassi Shop in Varanasi is definitely worth a check out. Out of all the lassi’s I had in India, this shop had the best lassis by far! Made of fresh ingredients, it made for a great afternoon snack and pick me up. If you’re feeling daring enough, try a bang lassi and let the fun begin 😉

• Cost: Prices vary depending on the size and ingredients

Ghat Tour & Sunset Ceremony

I personally am not big on tours, but I would say that this is a must do. Join a tour guide down to the ghats where you’ll learn about the history of them while enjoying an evening boat ride on the Ganges. At the end of the tour, you will witness the burning of the bodies at the main ghat, as well as a beautiful sunset ceremony at the Assi Ghat where you will light floating candles to make a wish!

• Cost: 300 Rupees (Price may vary depending on your tour)

Sunrise at the Ghats

Watching the sunrise at the ghats in the morning is a great experience. How well you see the sunrise will depend on the weather, but the praying, bathing, and washing will be in full affect! If you’re not an early riser, I still recommend trying to get up and out of bed for this.

• Cost: It’s free to walk down, or you can book a sunrise boat tour – price varies

Yoga, Meditation, Reki, Ayurvedic Treatments

Ashrams and Ayurvedic spas are located all over Varanasi. Check with your hostel/hotel on one they recommend! The hostel I stayed at offered yoga on the rooftop at sunrise. There were also Ashrams located all throughout the winding alleys amongst all the shops and restaurants.

• Cost: Prices vary based on the studio/ashram choice.

Helpful Tips

• Visa – The Indian tourist visa is very easy to get using the e-tourist visa website. You’ll be able to easily follow along using this website: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/  visa/index.html . Visa costs $63 for 6 month multiple entry. Americans are eligible for a 10 year visa, but in order to get this visa you will need to go into the embassy and apply in person.
• Currency: Rupee
• Women should be mindful of what they wear – this will only make you feel more comfortable. In most places aside from Goa, you should wear something that goes down to your knees and covers your shoulders.
• For solo female travelers: Be mindful and use your common sense. If you feel uncomfortable, walk towards a group of people and act like you’re with them. Always walk with confidence as if you know where you’re going, even if you’re completely lost.
• Download the offline map of the city you’re in on the app Maps.Me – best maps for tourism!!
• Make sure you mark where you’re staying, and always carry around a business card from them.