Varanasi, India
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Museums
If you are in Varanasi and want to visit museums, then you may consider visiting the following places:
1. Bharat Kala Bhawan Museum: It is located within the Banaras Hindu University campus and has an impressive collection of ancient Indian art and artifacts.
2. Sarnath Archaeological Museum: This museum is situated in the nearby town of Sarnath and houses a vast collection of Buddhist sculptures and artifacts.
3. Jantar Mantar: Although not a traditional museum, Jantar Mantar is an observatory with unique astronomical instruments that will give you a glimpse into India's scientific heritage.
If you are interested in visiting more places similar to museums, then you may consider exploring other historical landmarks such as temples, palaces, and forts that are prevalent in and around Varanasi.
Food
Varanasi is famous for its vibrant street food scene, and here are some of the most popular and typical dishes that locals recommend trying:
1. Chaat: A delicious dish made with crispy fried dough, chickpeas, potatoes, and spices, topped with chutneys and yogurt. Locals recommend trying the chaat at Kashi Chat Bhandar in Godowilia or Deena Chat Bhandar in Lanka.
2. Lassi: A refreshing drink made with yogurt, sugar, and sometimes fruit, served cold. The lassis from Blue Lassi in the old city are particularly famous and well-loved by locals.
3. Kachori Sabzi: A savoury snack of deep-fried bread stuffed with spiced lentils or potatoes, served with a side of curry. Try it at Kachauri Gali in Vishwanath Gali.
4. Malaiyo: A sweet, creamy dessert made with milk foam, saffron, and cardamom, sold during winters only. Try it at Chowk or Thatheri Bazaar.
5. Paan: A betel leaf stuffed with various fillings such as sweeteners, nuts, spices, and tobacco. It has been a cultural tradition in Varanasi for centuries, and you can try it at any of the local paan shops.
6. Thandai: A sweet, chilled drink made with milk, nuts, and spices, often spiked with bhang (a cannabis-infused preparation). It is a popular drink during Holi festival. Try it at Blue Lassi or Ram Bhandar.
These are just a few examples of the many delicious dishes Varanasi has to offer, so don't hesitate to explore and try new things!
Activities
Here are some fun activities that locals in Varanasi enjoy:
1. Take a boat ride on the Ganges River: This is a popular activity in Varanasi, and it allows you to see the city from a different perspective.
2. Attend the Ganga Aarti ceremony: This is a spiritual ceremony that takes place every evening on the banks of the Ganges River. Locals and visitors alike gather to watch the ritual and offer prayers to the river.
3. Visit the local markets: Varanasi is famous for its vibrant markets, and locals often spend time shopping for souvenirs, textiles, and handicrafts.
4. Explore the narrow alleys and lanes of the old city: The labyrinthine streets of Varanasi's old city are full of interesting sights, sounds, and smells. Locals love to wander through these alleys, exploring new nooks and crannies.
5. Try local street food: Varanasi is known for its delicious street food, and locals enjoy snacking on dishes like chaat, lassi, and samosas.
6. Watch a classical music or dance performance: Varanasi has a rich cultural heritage, and locals enjoy attending classical music and dance performances at venues like the Sankat Mochan Music Festival or the Bharat Bhavan.
