Other Experiences
Yoga
Varanasi is known for it’s deep rooted knowledge on yoga. We happily support Varanasi Yoga School, founded by Abhishek Pandey, who has the dream to offer free yoga on several places on the banks of the Ganges to all kids that want to join (adults welcome too). Because it will help them grow in a beautiful way.
You can join this early morning lessons, but you can also book your private lessons (and support them in this way); at their ashram, in our palace or elsewhere like on the banks. Whatever you prefer, just let us know and we will arrange. An experience not to be missed while you’re here.
DEVDARI & RAJDARI WATERFALLS
Chandra Prabha Wildlife Sanctuary is a well known place, a two hours drive away from Varanasi (70km). Another ideal destiny for who wants to escape the bustling holy city for a day. The dense forest is not only a bird watcher’s paradise, it also houses a.o. leopards, sambar deers and chinkaras and wild boars. From there you can have breathtaking views over the charming Devdari fall and the Rajdari waterfall with an impressive 65-meter drop – an enormous scenic view. Don’t forget to stop by Ramnagar pokhra, a huge pond on the way. Of course we will be happy to arrange this day trip for you – inclusive a picnic on another breathtaking place.
Krishnamurti Foundation
Vist at 82HR+JHH, Rajghat Brg Rd, Jalil Pur (on walking distance of Namo Ghat)
SARNATH
Many people visiting Varanasi also visit Sarnath, the place where Buddha did his first teaching after he attained enlightenment. This teaching (to his first five disciples) occurred circa 528 BC when Buddha was about 35 years old. So for Buddhists this is really a very important pilgrimage site, been nominated to become a UNESCO World Heritage Site too.
RAMNAGAR FORT
MEDITATION
It comes in many forms, and can be done in many ways. Varanasi is a perfect place for practising. On your own or guided. Visiting temples or along the holy river you will see many people doing so. Also worlds largest meditation center, Swarved Mahamandir, is situated in Varanasi, in 2023 officially opened by PM Modi. A 20.000 seat spiritual haven, about 12 km from the city center, with a unique architecture in pink sandstone. A nice visit on the way to the airport but please be aware that it’s not really totally finished yet.
WYNDHAM FALL
A nice daytrip when you want to avoid the intensity of Varanasi for a while: via Chunar – do visit Chunar Fort, made from the famous red Chunar sandstone in the 16th century, and stop at the roadshop selling pottery – you will ride through country side, finally reaching Wyndham Fall in Marzapur District. A place with a very non-touristic waterfall only visited by locals. And exactly that makes it worthwhile. Feel the vibe of local families and friends going out for a nice picknick together, singing, eating and dancing near the water. A nice area to make a walk too and enjoy the serene surroundings of nature. And yes, also the waterfall is lovely and of course more impressive during the monsoon. If you book through us, we will make sure you also will have your own picnic near the waterfall.
Also explore:
Some of our handpicked tips on what to enjoy in Varanasi. Tips from locals, tips from experts, tips from people that simply love Varanasi. You can easily go out on your own but when you prefer to go out with a guide feel free to ask us. We’re happy to facilitate (for our guests). Especially when you don’t speak the local language or Hindi and are not used to the art of bargaining it can be very helpful to have someone with you.
– Temples
– Boating & Banks of Ganges
– Food & Drinks
– Shopping