Varanasi, also known as Banaras or Kashi, is one of India’s oldest cities and a popular spiritual tourist destination. Situated along the holy Ganga River in Uttar Pradesh, this ancient city attracts pilgrims and travellers alike, drawn by its heritage temples, culture and delectable street food. But during the festival of Dev Deepawali the arrival of tourists in Varanasi increases.
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Translating to “Diwali of the Gods,” this year, the grand festival falls on November 15th and there is no better time to visit Varanasi and experience the rich culture of the city. But amid the celebration do not forget to savour Kashi’s diverse street foods that features chaats, lassi and the iconic paan. Here are eight unmissable delights to try in Banaras if you are visiting the city this Dev Deepawali.
Malaiyo At Kachori Wali Gali, Chowk
If you have a sweet tooth, Varanasi’s iconic malaiyo is a must-try. This delicate winter specialty is made by leaving milk out overnight under the winter sky, allowing the dew to create a light and foamy texture. The milk is churned with cardamom, saffron and sugar, transforming into a melt-in-the-mouth delight. It is garnished with chopped almonds and pistachios and served in traditional kulhads.
Address: Address: 21, Tripura Bhairwi Rd, Rani Kuan,Chowk,Chowk Godowlia, Lahori Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001
Tamatar Chaat At Kashi Chaat Bhandar, Godowlia Road
Chaat is a popular street food across the country, but Varanasi is known for its innovative take on this delight which is called tamatar chaat. Unlike the usual chaat, it combines mashed tomatoes, potatoes, green chillies and a mix of spices, creating a warm, tangy, and spicy flavour profile. Topped with namkeen and coriander, tamatar chaat is a flavour-packed street snack that’s loved by locals and visitors alike.
Address: D 37/47, Dashashwamedh Ghat Rd, Godowlia, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001
Banarasi Lassi At Kachori Wali Gali, Chowk
In Varanasi, lassi is more than just a drink, it’s an experience. This creamy and sweet yoghurt-based drink is topped with a generous layer of thickened milk or rabri and garnished with saffron, almonds and pistachios. Served in a clay pot, this rich, dessert-like lassi is filling and satisfying. For those looking to try something different, there are flavours of this drink like rose, mango, and butterscotch.
Address: 21, Tripura Bhairwi Rd, Rani Kuan,Chowk,Chowk Godowlia, Lahori Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001
Rabri Jalebi At Om Shree Ram Bhandar, Nadesar
A perfect treat for sweet lovers, rabri jalebi combines two beloved Indian sweets. The crispy, hot jalebis are dipped in sugar syrup and served with thick, creamy rabri that is flavoured with cardamom and saffron. This sweet duo has a wonderful taste with crunchy and creamy textures in each bite. You can find it on the streets, particularly during winter.
Address: Shop#5, Mint House, Nadesar, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221002
Thandai At Kashi Vishwanath Thandai Ghar, Harha
This is another drink you must try in Varanasi. Thandai is made with milk, almonds, fennel seeds, cardamom, saffron and rose petals. During festivals, it is common to find bhang (a cannabis-infused version) added to the drink, though the traditional thandai is a treat on its own. It is usually served chilled in kulhads.
Address: Vishwanath Thandai Ghar, Kotwalpura, Godowlia, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001
Kachori Sabzi At Chachi Kachori Shop, Lanka
It is a quintessential Varanasi breakfast that is loved for its combination of crispy and flaky kachoris filled with flavoured lentils. It goes well with a piping hot potato curry and is perfect for a yummy start to the day. Whether you are an early riser or enjoy a late breakfast, this popular street food is a staple among locals and tourists alike.
Address: Anandbagh, Lanka, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221005
Litti Chokha, Polti Baati Chokha Restaurant, Assi Ghat
Originating from Bihar but now widely enjoyed in Varanasi, litti chokha is a satisfying meal of round wheat flour dough balls stuffed with sattu and spices. These littis are roasted over charcoal for a smoky flavour and served with chokha which features a mashed mix of roasted eggplant, potatoes and tomatoes. It is specially popular for lunch or dinner among locals.
Address: B-13/1-R-A , Assi Nala, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221005
Banarasi Paan, Paan Keshav Tambul Bhandar, Lanka Road
While it’s not a food item, no trip to Varanasi is complete without trying the iconic Banarasi paan. Known throughout India, it is made with betel leaves and filled with a mixture of ingredients like fennel seeds, cardamom, cloves and gulkand. Whether you try the meetha (sweet) paan or the stronger, traditional version, it’s the perfect way to end a meal in Banaras.
Address: Swastik Plaza, Lanka Rd, Near Ravidas Gate, Anandbagh, Lanka, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221005
