Food tours in Varanasi cut straight to the heart of this ancient city’s vibrant street cuisine. The 2-hour Street Food Crawl stands out as the best introduction, serving up six authentic local specialties from jalebi sweets to savory golgappa. For an all-in-one cultural experience, I’m especially fond of the Night Tour with Aarti Ceremony – it smartly pairs street food tastings with the magical evening river ritual. Both tours feature English-speaking local guides who know exactly where to find the cleanest, tastiest bites. These highly-rated experiences keep group sizes intimate and hit all the right spots. Let’s look at these top food tours in detail.
Key Points
- Varanasi offers two acclaimed food tours: a Street Food Crawl and a Night Tour with the Aarti Ceremony, both led by bilingual experts.
- The Street Food Crawl provides a 2-hour immersive experience, allowing visitors to taste over six authentic local delicacies and explore the city’s culinary traditions.
- The Night Tour with Aarti Ceremony is a 4-hour experience that combines a mesmerizing evening ceremony with a guided street food tour and visits to sweet shops.
- Both tours emphasize cultural storytelling, local insights, and the opportunity to discover hidden food gems, with high praise for knowledgeable guides.
- While the tours offer valuable culinary experiences, some reviews suggest the food quantity may not fully align with the tour price, though overall feedback remains positive.
Varanasi Street Food Crawl (2 Hours Guided Food Tasting Tour)
On this 2-hour guided tour, travelers embark on a captivating culinary journey through the vibrant streets of Varanasi. Rated 4.5 out of 58 reviews, the Varanasi Street Food Crawl offers an immersive experience where guests can safely taste a variety of local delicacies.
Led by bilingual guides fluent in English and Hindi, the tour provides insights into the city’s rich cultural heritage and the stories behind its iconic street food.
Participants will savor an array of traditional snacks, including jalebi, kachori, chaat, and golgappa, as well as freshly brewed tea, lassi, and tandai. The experience not only satisfies the palate but also deepens understanding of Varanasi’s culinary traditions.
With a maximum group size of 20, the tour ensures an intimate and personalized encounter. While some reviewers found the cost slightly high compared to the food served, many praised the knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to discover hidden gastronomic gems.
Read our full review: Varanasi Street Food Crawl (2 Hours Guided Food Tasting Tour) Review
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Varanasi: Night Tour With Aarti Ceremony and Street Food
Travelers seeking to enjoy the spiritual and culinary essence of Varanasi can embark on a captivating night tour that combines the awe-inspiring aarti ceremony and a delectable street food exploration.
This 4-hour experience starts with a hotel pickup at 5:00 PM, allowing visitors to witness the mesmerizing evening aarti performed by priests in saffron and white robes, accompanied by beautiful music.
Following the ceremony, guests will embark on a guided street food tour, sampling a diverse array of local delicacies, including mishrambhu and savory dishes from southern and northern India.
The tour also includes visits to sweet shops, where travelers can learn about and taste traditional Indian sweets.
With all food tastings, an English-speaking guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, and mineral water provided, this tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Varanasi’s vibrant culinary scene.
Despite positive feedback on the friendly guide and well-organized nature of the tour, some customers have expressed concerns about the value for money.
Read our full review: Varanasi: Night Tour With Aarti Ceremony and Street Food Review
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Varanasi Street Food Crawl (2 Hours Guided Tour)
Immersing visitors in the vibrant culinary landscape of Varanasi, the Varanasi Street Food Crawl offers a captivating 2-hour guided tour. Priced at £16.59 per person, this experience allows participants to taste over six authentic delicacies, exploring the oldest food shops and witnessing the preparation of celebrated sweets.
Led by a highly trained and friendly storyteller/guide fluent in English and Hindi, the tour provides insights into local food culture and the influences on the city’s cuisine. Travelers will have the opportunity to walk around the Ghats of Kashi and learn about energy transformation.
The tour includes food tasting and beverages, with great conversations, interesting stories, local tips, and recommendations. Positive reviews highlight the guide’s knowledge and patience, as well as the exploration of lesser-known food spots and cultural insights.
Visitors are advised to bring sunglasses, a hat, and comfortable clothes, and to check availability for starting times before booking. With free cancellation and the option to reserve now and pay later, the Varanasi Street Food Crawl is a must-try for foodies.
Read our full review: Varanasi Street Food Crawl (2 Hours Guided Tour) Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Day to Take a Food Tour?
The best time to take a food tour is generally in the late morning or early afternoon when most local eateries are open and serving their signature dishes. This allows travelers to sample the widest variety of regional specialties.
Do the Tours Accommodate Dietary Restrictions or Allergies?
Most food tours in Varanasi accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies. Guests can usually inform the tour operator of their needs, and the guides will ensure the selected food stops cater to these requirements.
Are the Tours Suitable for Vegetarians or Vegans?
The tours are suitable for vegetarians and vegans as they can accommodate these dietary preferences. Many of the food samples and dishes featured on the tours cater to plant-based diets, ensuring an enjoyable experience for all participants.
How Much Walking Is Involved in the Food Tours?
The food tours typically involve a moderate amount of walking, usually ranging from 2 to 3 kilometers. Guests should wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to explore the bustling streets of Varanasi on foot to fully enjoy the local cuisine and culture.
Can the Tours Be Customized for Private Groups?
Most food tour providers offer customized private tours for groups. They can tailor the itinerary and experience to the group’s preferences and dietary requirements. This allows for a more personalized and intimate food tasting adventure.
The Sum Up
Varanasi’s vibrant street food scene offers a unique culinary experience for adventurous travelers. From guided food tours to nighttime explorations, visitors can savor the city’s iconic delicacies and witness the captivating Aarti ceremony. Whether seeking a quick tasting or a more immersive gastronomic journey, Varanasi’s food tours provide an opportunity to dive into the heart of the local culture through its diverse and flavorful cuisine.