Spiritual Travel

7 Places In Varanasi For Delicious Local Food And Their Specialties

Published

2 months ago

May 31, 2025

Banaras—also known as Varanasi—is not just a spiritual capital of India, but also a treasure trove of flavours and aromas that linger in your memory long after you have returned. And with the latest release of Rajkummar Rao and Wamiqa Gabbi’s Bhool Chuk Maaf, you can not miss but see the chaotic yet pleasent and spiritual ghats of the city and the narrow lanes of Varanasi coming alive on the big screen. While the city is known for its spiritual significance, it has many old places which are famous for their delicious traditional and modern foods that blend the essence of the Ganges. So, if you are inspied to take a quick trip to this religious city, we promise, food won’t just be sustenance; it will be a part of your sacred ritual blend with culture, tradition, and timeless taste.

Here’s your complete guide to seven iconic places in Varanasi that every food lover must visit and try their special dishes.

Kashi Chaat Bhandar

No trip to Banaras is complete without indulging in its famous chaat, especially Kashi Ki Chaat. Located at Godowlia, near Dashashwamedh Ghat, this shop is run by the generations. Their tamatar chaat and palak patta chaat are must. This is one of the legendary spots in the chaotic lanes close to the ghat and Kashi Vishwanath temple, so expect a long wait time. Their tamatar chaat is a hot mix of tomatoes, spices, and chutneys topped with crisp sev, unlike anything you have tasted anywhere. Palak Patta chaat you may have tried at home or elsewhere but at Kashi’s it’s a different feeling.

Blue Lassi Shop

Located in Kachori Gali, near Manikarnika Ghat, which itself is a must visit for anyone looking for a spiritual awakening, Blue Lassi Shop’s lassi is a must try. This lassi shop is more than a drink shop, it’s a spiritual experience. A 90-year-old establishment, this humble shop prepares fresh and thik lassi blended with curd, saffron, cardamom, and a variety of fruits. Try their pomegranate or Banana lassi which is served in earthen pots and garnished with malai, it’s the perfect coolant after a hot temple walk.

Baati Chokha Restaurant

If you are in Uttar Pradesh, you may as well crave for Bihar’s iconic Litti-Chokha. Located in Teliyabagh, Baati Chokha restaurant is a must visit. Nestled in a lane toward the Banaras Hindu University, this place offers rustic, earthy flavours and same with its seating and serving arrangements. Their Litti Chokha is stuffed with wheat balls roasted over coal and served with mashed brinjal and tomato chutney. It is a must try. They use mustard oil and desi ghee to give that authentic touch to the dish. It is bit spicy so if you have sensitive stomach, we advise to go slow.

Deena Chaat Bhandar

If you want to hop on to street food in Varanasi, this place is for you. It is known for its classis street eats near Dhashwamedh Road. Often overshadowed by its more famous cousin Kashi Chaat, Deena Chat is famous for its Aloo Tikki chaat and Dahi Puri. Filled with curd, and crunchy delights, it’s hit among those seeking something light but flavourful.

Vishwanath Gali Sweet Shops

This place is for those who have sweet tooth. Located near Kashi Vishwanath Temple in the narrow lanes of Vishwanath Gali, you will find this lane full of sweet shops selling some of the finest Rabri and Malaiyyo. Made from milk foam, saffron, and nuts, Malaiyyo is a winter delicacy. This melt-in-mouth delicacy is as delicate as the morning mist on the Ganges. Don’t miss the freshly made Jalebi, fried in desi ghee and soaked in saffron syrup. Also don’t forget to pack some to bring back home.

Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe

The location will take you to a French restaurant, except that this place has a stunning view of the Ganges. Visit this place in the evening and binge on some pizza and apple pie. Located on Assi Ghat where you can witness evening Ganga arti, their wood-fired pizza is a must try. This cafe is a blend of traditional and international twist with its wood-fired pizzas served beside the river. Their homemade Apple Pie with vanila ice cream has become legend, and every visitor’s favourite. This is one of the favourite hangout place for both locals and global travelers. It is a bit expensive place but worth the try.

Ram Bhandar

If you want to experience royalty amid spirituality, head to this place for breakfast. We recommend to visit the place after the morning Ganga arti for the soulful start of the day. Located in Thatheri Bazaar, their specialties are Kachori-Sabzi and Jalebi. Ram Bhandar is one of the most revered breakfast joints in the city. Their Kachori is served with spicy, and tangy potato curry. It is also a traditional breakfast in Varanasi. Complete your meal with hot jalebi for the perfect start of the day.

Paan is a synonymous with the city of Varanasi (Getty Images)

Remember, when you are in Banaras, it is more than just a travel. It is the place where spirituality meets the moden science. Every street in Varanasi has a story to tell and a delicacy to offer from the generations. Whether you are sitting on the ghats with a kulhad of chai or licking tamarind chutney off your fingers after a delicious chat, every meal in Banaras is served with a smile and compassion. And only thing you need, is a good appetite and some extra money and we promise the city is not going to disappoint you. Before you bid adieu to the city, don’t miss to try the iconic “Pan Banaras Wala“.

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Spiritual Travel

Bilaspur Set to Transform into Himachal’s Ultimate Adventure and Spiritual Hub

Published

10 hours ago

August 4, 2025

admin

Move over, Manali and Shimla! Bilaspur is gearing up to become the state’s next big tourism hotspot, blending adrenaline-pumping adventures with serene spiritual experiences. The district administration has rolled out ambitious plans to develop water, land, and aerial tourism, promising something for thrill-seekers, pilgrims, and nature lovers alike.

A Sky-High Attraction: The Glass Bridge

Imagine walking on a transparent bridge, suspended high above breathtaking landscapes—Bilaspur’s upcoming Glass Bridge at Bharari will do just that! Designed to rival global attractions, this engineering marvel will offer daredevils an unforgettable experience while giving tourists a reason to extend their stay. Officials confirm the blueprint is ready, and construction will kick off soon after final approvals.

Sailing Through Scenic Routes: The Water Metro

Pilgrims visiting Maa Naina Devi will soon have a faster, more scenic journey thanks to the proposed Water Metro, connecting Bhakra Ghat to Kosariya Ghat. This isn’t just about convenience—it’s about turning travel into an experience. Devotees and tourists can hop on boats, enjoy the tranquil waters, and even transport their vehicles via waterways.

Jet Skis, Kayaking & More: Water Sports at Nakrana

Bhakra Dam’s pristine waters are about to get a lot more exciting! The district is eyeing water sports like jet skiing, kayaking, and boating to attract adventure junkies. The best part? Pilgrims heading to Naina Devi can now add a splash of adventure to their spiritual trip.

Bharari – The New Stopover Destination

Strategically located near Shimla, Manali, and Dharamshala, Bharari will soon feature modern tourist hubs with food plazas, parking, rest areas, and info centers. No more cramped pit stops—just smooth, comfortable breaks for travelers.

Listening to Locals: Boaters Get a Voice

Deputy Commissioner Rahul Kumar made sure local boat operators were heard during inspections, promising quick fixes to their concerns. This people-first approach ensures tourism growth benefits everyone.

Bilaspur’s transformation isn’t just about flashy infrastructure—it’s about jobs for youth, better travel experiences, and putting this hidden gem on India’s tourism radar. With projects set to launch soon, the district is poised to become a must-visit for those seeking adventure, spirituality, and untouched natural beauty.

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Spiritual Travel

Shiva Tribe Debuts in Gurgaon’s Tikli-Raiseena: IMPC’s Bold Step to Merge Spirituality, Rural Tourism, and Modern Family Wellness

Published

12 hours ago

August 4, 2025

ANI

VMPL

New Delhi [India], August 4: In the lush rural landscape of Tikli-Raiseena near Gurgaon, a new chapter in India’s spiritual and rural tourism ecosystem quietly unfolded. The International Mandir Prabandhak Committee (IMPC) launched its ambitious spiritual wellness initiative–Shiva Tribe–an experience-driven, immersive space designed to reconnect Gen Z and modern families with India’s timeless spiritual roots.

Set against the tranquil backdrop of Haryana’s Aravalli fringes, Shiva Tribe is more than a mandir–it is a curated journey of self-discovery, holistic wellness, and cultural revival, seamlessly merging ancient wisdom with modern aspirations. The inaugural three-day Pran Pratishtha Mahotsav was held in July, graced by spiritual luminaries including Pujya Shri Sudhanshu Ji Maharaj, Pujya Shri Dayanand Ji Maharaj, and dignitaries such as Haryana’s former Minister Shri Om Prakash Dhankar. Business leaders, rural development advocates, and spiritual patrons attended in significant numbers–signaling a rising interest in faith-based tourism models.

Spiritual Tourism: India’s Growing Wellness Sector

India’s spiritual tourism market is undergoing a silent revolution. According to the Ministry of Tourism, the wellness and spiritual tourism segment is projected to reach USD 30 billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of over 10%. With over 330 million domestic religious tourists recorded annually and rising international interest in authentic Indian experiences, initiatives like Shiva Tribe have the potential to create high-value, low-impact tourism models in rural belts–generating employment, fostering entrepreneurship, and revitalizing local economies.

“In today’s fragmented lifestyle, families are searching for meaningful escapes–not just vacations. Shiva Tribe is that sacred pause–a place to reconnect, reflect, and realign, together,” said Dr. Preet Sandhuu, mentor of the project and a key voice in India’s contemporary spiritual movement.

A New Blueprint: Spirituality Meets Community Living

Unlike traditional spiritual centers, Shiva Tribe offers a complete spiritual-eco retreat–including weekend live devotional music by its in-house ‘Shiva Tribe Band’, yoga sessions, mantra-infused meditations, Vedic rituals, and stay facilities for families. It’s a full-circle experience designed to inspire urban youth and families alike to step into a more conscious, value-driven lifestyle.

“Here, spirituality is not a sermon–it’s an experience,” said Shri MP Singh, project visionary and founder of ShivaTribe. “We want to build a network of such community-driven centers across rural India, using temple heritage as a catalyst for rural rejuvenation and youth engagement.”

Rural Regeneration Through Faith

The Tikli model aligns with India’s rural tourism policy goals by transforming underexplored rural regions into mindful tourism destinations. With over 60% of India’s population residing in villages, initiatives like this leverage India’s spiritual capital to promote rural entrepreneurship, handicrafts, organic farming, and ecotourism–creating a sustainable rural economy rooted in culture and community.

IMPC’s Broader Mission

The International Mandir Prabandhak Committee (IMPC), known for initiatives like the Mahasangam Yatra, Trisul Yatra and Shiv-Shakti Kendras, is rapidly becoming a bridge between India’s ancient temple traditions and its digital future. Its work focuses on temple modernization, spiritual leadership development, and community revival–backed by collaborations with scholars, saints, and civic leaders.

By anchoring the Shiva Tribe initiative in Tikli, IMPC demonstrates how faith-based community models can attract tourism, foster economic inclusion, and support national goals like ‘Viksit Bharat’ and ‘Digital Bharat’.

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