1. Walk Around: Although public transport is fairly cheap and easily available for longer journeys, it is better to walk around some tourist places in Varanasi. A walk through the narrow alleys in Chowk-Godaullia Area, through the lush green campus of Banaras Hindu University, on the roads in Sarnath or along the river bank on the ghats provides opportunities to click multiple pictures depicting the soul and essence of Varanasi.
2. Free attractions: The main attractions in the city are the numerous temples and the riverfront of the Ganga. The best thing is that both of its main attractions are absolutely free of cost. There are many other attractions and activities that can be experienced in Varanasi without spending money, for example, Ganga Aarti, Various religious rituals on the ghats, many mass gathering fairs and festivals. This makes it a really affordable city to enjoy.
3. Night Life: Varanasi doesn’t offer an attractive night life. In fact, most of the city becomes silent by 10-11 PM. However, the evening hours are actually more enjoyable. After sunset, you can enjoy the spectacular Ganga Aarti at many important river ghats in Varanasi without spending a single penny. Boat rides are also available to watch the Ganga Aarti.
Most of the visitors to Varanasi normally aimed for a religious journey, thus making it an auspicious city. Don’t expect a pub street or Happy Hours Bars in a crowded street, while roaming in Varanasi during the late hours. The city has many bars, but they are scattered all around. If you are looking for the drinks, best bars are located in Nadesar/Cantonment area.
4. Bargain Shopping: Varanasi is actually a shoppers’ paradise and for those watching the pennies, there’s plenty of bargain options. You can find interesting, unique and valuable items here. The city is widely famous for its Banarasi Silk and carpets. Explore the narrow lanes of Nai Sadak, Godaullia and Chowk to get better bargain on the products, but always remember to bargain hard.
5. Eat Cheap: The mouthwatering street snacks of Varanasi will create everlasting food memories. Street foods in Varanasi are really yummy and don’t burn a hole in the pocket. With a wide variety of street food available in every flavour known; be it spicy, sweet, tangy or even the mix of all, Varanasi has everything affordable for the food lovers.
7. Sleep Cheap: Few hostels are already there in Varanasi, where you can stay cheaper. For family travel, Varanasi has variety of guest houses and hotels suitable for the budget travellers. The pilgrims also stay in Dharam Shalas at the nominal prices, but these are not available to every visitors.
