Banaras is known not only for its temples, holy sites, and atmosphere but also for its magnificent street food. Local dishes served in narrow alleys have won people's hearts due to their unique taste and traditional preparation methods. If you are planning a trip to Banaras, you should definitely try these ten famous street delicacies.
Mornings in Banaras often begin with hot Khauri Sabzi. This khauri, filled with spiced lentils, is served with spicy pea curry, chutney, and jalebi. Such a dish can be found on almost any street in the city.
Banarasi Paan is famous not only nationally but also internationally. This type of paan is made from fresh leaves, to which katta, supari, and sweet filling are added. It is considered the calling card of Banaras and enhances the taste in the mouth after consumption.
Banarasi Jalebi differs from ordinary jalebi in that it is larger in size and crunchier in taste. It is made from dough that has risen with yeast, fried in oil, and then dipped in sugar syrup. It is an ideal choice for sweet lovers.
Also popular is khauri, prepared with a filling of lentils and spices, which is often eaten as a light snack.
Tampar Chat in Banaras has a completely different taste compared to other cities. This combination of tomatoes, spices, chutney, and seeds is liked by everyone. The city also offers thick and creamy lassi, which is served in a kulhar, and the thick layer of cream multiplies its flavor.
A popular breakfast is fluffy puri with spiced potato stuffing. Locals enjoy eating this in the mornings.
Bati-Chokha is a traditional dish of the Purvanchal and Banaras region. Bati, prepared in the local style, is served with chokha made from eggplant, potatoes, and tomatoes.
Along the streets of Banaras, it is easy to find many types of chaat, including papdi chaat, aloo tikki, and dahi puri. The combination of sweet and sour flavors of these dishes appeals to all food connoisseurs.
If you visit Banaras in winter, be sure to try Malaiyo. It is a delicate and soft sweet made from milk foam, sugar, saffron, and cardamom, which melts in the mouth.
Whether you are traveling by plane, car, or bus, there is a list of essential items to ensure you arrive at your destination in good condition. This guide offers recommendations for preparing for long journeys.
In carry-on luggage, you should take water, easily digestible snacks, a change of clothes, basic hygiene products, documents, constantly taken medications, a sleep mask, headphones, and earplugs. Chargers or power banks can also be useful for unforeseen situations.
Regarding wardrobe, the air conditioning in planes and buses can often be very strong, while it may be hot outside. Therefore, prioritize comfort and versatility by choosing a basic outfit that can be supplemented with extra layers of clothing.
Spending hours in a seated position is a serious strain on the body. It is advisable to stretch before and during the trip. You should choose light food, avoid alcohol and coffee, and have motion sickness and muscle pain remedies handy. It is recommended to wear compression stockings to prevent leg swelling, which causes discomfort and poses vascular risks.
If you have tried sleeping in a cramped seat and could not find a comfortable leg position, non-slip socks can help secure your feet and prevent slipping, regardless of the surface. Many types of inflatable pillows and supports are available online that do not take up much luggage space and can serve as support for the neck, feet, or lower back.
On international flights, it is important to drink plenty of water to minimize the effects of time zone changes (jet lag) and air conditioning exposure. You should prepare books or download videos and movies to watch, but you should avoid sleepless nights in front of screens. For people prone to nausea, podcasts and audiobooks are suitable.
A soft scarf is a versatile accessory: it can provide warmth, serve as a sleep mask, or soften areas of friction and discomfort in the seat. It is also recommended to prepare to look presentable upon arrival, especially in case of delays, by using wet wipes, dry shampoo, and deodorant.
Maintaining a good state of health is crucial for preserving immunity. Otherwise, minor issues can constantly bother the body. To remain physically healthy, besides proper nutrition and other factors, it is important to maintain order in the north-northeast direction of your home, which will help prevent illnesses.
It is believed that the directions in a house have a profound influence on life, especially when it comes to the north-northeast and east-northeast corners. According to the principles of Vastu Shastra, both these zones are associated with the water element and directly affect a person's ability to resist diseases (immunity) and their intellect. Any defect in these directions can negatively impact health and mental balance.
The north-northeast direction regulates the body's ability to fight ailments. If there are disturbances here, such as the accumulation of heavy objects, dirt, darkness, or clutter, a person's immune system can weaken. The consequences of this can manifest as frequent illnesses, fatigue, allergies, or infections.
As for the east-northeast corner (Ishan Kon), it is considered a direction of knowledge, intellect, and clarity of mind. If a Vastu defect occurs in this zone, it can negatively affect a person's ability to make decisions, causing confusion, stress, irritability, and reduced concentration. When both the body and the mind suffer, the quality of life decreases.
Although both zones are associated with the water element, an excess of this element can also be harmful. For example, if there is dampness, water accumulation, or constant humidity in Ishan Kon, it makes the atmosphere in the house negative. Residents of such a house may face respiratory problems, skin diseases, or frequent colds.
The most serious situation arises when a toilet is located in Ishan Kon. Placing a toilet in this direction is considered a major defect that negatively affects not only health but also disturbs peace of mind. People living in such houses often experience tension, anxiety, and imbalance.
It is extremely important to keep these directions clean, bright, and open. Natural light and freshness should be maintained in the north-northeast and east-northeast corners. It is considered favorable to place a place of worship, a meditation room, or positive water elements, such as a small fountain or a vessel of water, here; however, the water must not stagnate or be dirty.
If a Vastu defect already exists in these directions, it can be mitigated through certain measures. These measures include eliminating dampness, ensuring proper ventilation, using light shades, and maintaining regular cleanliness.
When winter arrives in South Africa, travel splits into two main directions: either escaping to the sun or fully immersing oneself in seasonal magic. Locals and experienced tourists know that winter is one of the best periods for exploring the country.
The winter months bring a special charm and fewer visitors due to the cloudless sky, which is ideal for stargazing, excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, and spectacular marine migrations. If you are looking to replace routine with an unforgettable adventure this season, there are six such winter experiences worth packing your bags for.
During the dry winter months, the vegetation in the bushveld becomes sparse, providing unprecedented visibility. Animals naturally gather around the remaining water sources and rivers, making it easier to spot the Big Five and elusive predators like leopards and cheetahs. Pleasant daytime temperatures allow animals to remain active throughout the day instead of hiding in the shade.
Expert tip: Go on early morning safaris wrapped in warm fleece, and spend evenings relaxing around a campfire in a boma.
Every year, southern whales make their journey from the icy feeding grounds of Antarctica to the sanctuary of Walker Bay to mate and give birth. Hermanus, recognized globally as one of the leading land-based whale watching destinations, comes alive with these graceful giants breaching just meters from the shore. The peak whale season runs from July to September.
Expert tip: Take a walk along the famous Cliff Path to enjoy panoramic views, or book a certified eco-marine tour to see tail slaps up close.
If you crave a classic cozy winter getaway with frosted peaks and roaring fireplaces, the Drakensberg mountain range will provide it. High-altitude passes are regularly covered in snow, turning jagged peaks into a winter fairy tale. The sky over the Berg is also often crisp and clear, perfect for energetic morning hikes and mountain photography without the summer heat or afternoon thunderstorms.
Expert tip: Take a 4x4 trip across the Sani Pass into Lesotho and warm up with a drink in Africa's highest pub.
The annual sardine migration, known as the 'Greatest School on Earth,' is a unique marine event. Billions of tiny sardines migrate north along the Wild Coast and KwaZulu-Natal coasts, attracting huge schools of dolphins, thousands of sharks, whales, and circling seabirds in a wild ocean spectacle. This natural phenomenon is triggered by cold ocean currents drifting north in July.
Expert tip: Stay in coastal towns like Port St Johns or Shelly Beach to be at the heart of the action. The KZN south coast comes alive during the annual sardine migration in winter.
Winter in the Cape Winelands, including Franschhoek, Stellenbosch, and Paarl, possesses a cozy and romantic atmosphere. One can warm up by a crackling fire while enjoying rich red wines and delicious food in picturesque historic vineyards. Wineries offer generous winter specials, cellar tours run in a less crowded manner, and the overall ambiance is conducive to relaxation.
Expert tip: Take a ride on the Franschhoek wine tram to safely travel between historic estates.
Located deep in the Great Karoo, the small town of Sutherland is famous for being the coldest place in South Africa and one of the best spots on the planet for studying the night sky. Due to the lack of light pollution and cloud cover, the icy air creates razor-sharp optical clarity. The cold air contains less moisture, providing optimal, crystal-clear atmospheric conditions for observing galaxies, nebulae, and shooting stars.
Expert tip: Book a tour at the South African Large Telescope (SALT), which is the largest optical telescope in the Southern Hemisphere.
