Experiences

Begin your day with Subah-e-Banaras, as the ghats awaken to the sound of prayers, music and the first light of the morning. Witness the morning Ganga Aarti and experience the quiet beauty of Varanasi before the city begins its day.

Enter the world of Banarasi textiles, where centuries of craft live on in silk, colour and intricate handwork. Meet the artisans behind the weave and discover the patience, skill and stories that go into creating one of Varanasi’s most enduring traditions.

Step into the akhada, where wrestling is as much a way of life as it is a sport. Witness a tradition shaped by discipline, strength and ritual, and gain an intimate glimpse into a community where the practice has been passed down through generations.

Begin your morning with a holy dip in the Ganges, a tradition that has been part of life in Varanasi for centuries. Experience the river up close and take a quiet moment to pause, reflect and be part of the city’s daily rhythm.

Walk through the corridors, courtyards and quiet corners of BrijRama Palace and discover the stories held within its walls. From its architecture to its connection with the Ganges, the palace offers a glimpse into Varanasi’s royal and cultural past.

An intimate, hands-on introduction to one of Varanasi's living traditions. Guided by a local practitioner or chef, the session explores material, technique and memory—leaving you with something made slowly, and a story to carry home.

As the sun sets, the ghats come alive with lamps, chants and the sound of bells. Witness the Ganga Aarti, a centuries-old ritual of devotion and reverence for the sacred Ganges.

Set out beyond the palace and into the lanes and ghats that have shaped Varanasi for centuries. Walk through a city where temples, homes, rituals and everyday life exist side by side, revealing a Varanasi that is best understood on foot.

Enjoy an evening of Indian classical music in the intimate setting of BrijRama Palace. Rooted in Varanasi’s rich musical tradition, the performance brings together melody, rhythm and the artistry of its musicians.

Experience the grace and precision of Kathak in an intimate setting at BrijRama Palace. Through rhythm, movement and expressive storytelling, the performance brings alive an art form deeply woven into India’s cultural heritage.

Slow down and discover the artistry behind mehndi through a hands-on experience. Learn about traditional motifs and techniques before creating your own design—a small, personal keepsake inspired by an enduring Indian tradition.

Journey to the serene grounds of Sarnath, where the echoes of Lord Buddha’s first sermon resonate through time. Walking among ancient stupas and tranquil monasteries, you feel a profound sense of calm and enlightenment that has attracted pilgrims for millennia. The majestic Dhamek Stupa stands as a silent sentinel, bearing witness to centuries of spiritual awakening and devotion. As you explore the Sarnath Museum, filled with ancient Buddhist artifacts, you gain insights into the teachings that have shaped a philosophical tradition revered around the world. This tour is not only a visual delight but also a spiritual pilgrimage that deepens your understanding of the path to enlightenment. It is an opportunity to connect with the profound wisdom and serene beauty that define this sacred site.

Set out on the Ganges for an evening of dining on the river. With the ghats lighting up around you, enjoy a private meal on the boat as Varanasi takes on a different character after sunset.

Enjoy High Tea at Udayan Terrace, overlooking the Ganges and the ghats of Varanasi. Delicate savouries, sweet treats and a selection of teas come together for a leisurely experience with the city unfolding beyond.

Follow Varanasi through its flavours, from familiar street-side favourites to recipes shaped by generations of local kitchens. Discover the ingredients, techniques and stories behind the city’s food culture, with each taste offering another way into Varanasi.

Begin in stillness with a guided practice attuned to the calm of Varanasi. Breath and movement unfold gently, creating space to reconnect with the body and the landscape beyond it.