Varanasi North and Manikarnika Walking Tour
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 28 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Varanasi North and Manikarnika Walking Tour worth booking?
Varanasi North and Manikarnika Walking Tour is a 3-hour experience in Varanasi, India, from $40 per person. It scores 73 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 5/5 rating across 28 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 73 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (28)
- Duration
- 3 hours
- From
- $40 per person
Starting in the heart of the old city, the walk takes you through its colourful markets, captivating places of worship, ancient buildings of stupendous architecture, and even greater stories! Understand the key elements of Hindu philosophy, how Varanasi's unique Geography led to its becoming India's spiritual capital, and the city’s compelling take on Death & Moksha (Salvation). Punctuated with frequent hidden-in-the-corner spots of solace amidst the hustle-bustle, the walk perfectly emulates the eccentricities of Banaras! In this relaxed, fun-filled story experience you can satiate your curiosity and delve deeper into "Bana-Ras" - The readymade juice of life!
What you get
About this experience
Starting in the heart of the old city, the walk takes you through its colourful markets, captivating places of worship, ancient buildings of stupendous architecture, and even greater stories! Understand the key elements of Hindu philosophy, how Varanasi's unique Geography led to its becoming India's spiritual capital, and the city’s compelling take on Death & Moksha (Salvation). Punctuated with frequent hidden-in-the-corner spots of solace amidst the hustle-bustle, the walk perfectly emulates the eccentricities of Banaras! In this relaxed, fun-filled story experience you can satiate your curiosity and delve deeper into "Bana-Ras" - The readymade juice of life!
What's included
Included
- All Fees and Taxes
What you'll see and do
Beautiful hidden gems in the alleyways – 300 year old haveli of a prolific writer, peaceful temple with exquisite architecture
30 minutes here · Admission included
Manikarnika Ghat
The place of Manikarnika Kund, Tarakeshwar Mahadev, and the Glimpses of Mahashamashan - coming face with the end of life
15 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Varanasi
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Returns to the starting point
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 9 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Roobaroo Walks
Know before you go
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 28 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Knowledge and storytelling
7 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Food and drink
6 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
The guide
3 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Traveler reviews
28 verified traveler reviews for Varanasi North and Manikarnika Walking Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Discovering Varanasi walking and food tour
Highly recommended for travellers looking to discover the essence of Varanasi.. we did 3 /4 tours spanning the boat rides, aarti, food and history...Anupam is a fascinating and knowledgeable storyteller who took us through the alleys of this old city each with their unique tale....not to mention the awesome food tour through the many alleys to discover hidden gems like a small tea shop serving a fantastic malai toast or a difficult to spot corner shop serving the most incredible variety of thandais including a fragrant phool thandai
via Tripadvisor
Impactful Experience in Varanasi
This is hands down the BEST tour you can take in Varanasi. Our guide, Anupam, and what he has created will leave an impact on you. I’m so grateful for this experience.
via Tripadvisor
A Soul-Nourishing Experience in Varanasi with Roobaroo Walks
I had an unforgettable trip to Varanasi with my family, and the walking tours with Roobaroo Walks were truly the highlight of our journey. These experiences didn’t just show us the city—they made us feel its essence, its soul, and its timeless beauty. The South Walk took us through the cultural and spiritual heart of Varanasi, weaving through narrow alleyways filled with history and life. The Sunrise Boat Tour was mesmerizing, watching the ghats awaken with chants, prayers, and the golden glow of the rising sun. The North Walk offered a deep dive into the city's ancient heritage, while the Food Walk was an explosion of flavors, introducing us to the authentic taste of Banaras. Each experience was thoughtfully curated and brought to life by our incredible storyteller, Anupam, whose storytelling made history, traditions, and hidden gems come alive. Roobaroo Walks provided a perspective of the city I had never seen before, making me fall in love with Varanasi in a way I never imagined. If you want to truly understand and experience the magic of Varanasi, these walks are an absolute must! Highly recommended.
Response from the operator: Dear Keshav, Thank you so much for your heartfelt review! We’re truly delighted to hear that your experience with Roobaroo Walks became such a memorable part of your journey in Varanasi. It’s wonderful to know that each walk—whether it was the "South Walk", the "Sunrise Boat Tour", the "North Walk", or the "Food Walk"—helped you connect deeply with the city’s essence. Your words beautifully capture the magic of Banaras, and we’re so glad Anupam’s storytelling added to the experience, bringing the history, traditions, and flavors of the city to life. Your appreciation means the world to us, and we hope to welcome you back to Varanasi for more explorations in the future! Best regards, Roobaroo Walks
via Tripadvisor
The bestest Varanasi Walking tour
Came across Roobaroo walks by chance and a walking tour with them I was told was the best way to get to know Kashi …. Please note the difference, it’s not see and explore the city but to get to know it The walk with our story teller Anupam left me and our group simply mesmerised ! It was amazing how he introduced us to the Culinary history and current trends , historic and mythological stories , evolution of the city from mythical times to now spanning thousands of years , relevance of architecture and people and monuments and shrines , faith and reverence and what it meant to the past dwellers and current Thank you Anupam for introducing us to the spirit and of Kashi , Varanasi , Banaras …. The spiritual epicenter for devine connection as it is known as Your knowledge , passion , enthusiasm and spirit is unbelievable We loved the food, enjoyed the tea break , the drinks (non alcoholic ! ) were amazing , the stories and the serendipity experiences you crafted were the cherry on top 🙏🏻 Shetall
Response from the operator: Dear Shetall, Thank you for your heartfelt and beautifully expressed review! We are truly honored that you found your Roobaroo Walks experience to be the best way to “get to know” Kashi, beyond just seeing and exploring. Anupam takes immense pride in weaving together the culinary heritage, history, mythology, and living traditions of Varanasi, and it’s wonderful to know that his storytelling resonated so deeply with you and your group. Your words perfectly capture the essence of what we aim to offer—an authentic and immersive connection with the spirit of this timeless city. We’re delighted that you enjoyed the food, tea break, and serendipitous moments along the way. It was a pleasure hosting you, and we look forward to welcoming you again for another unforgettable journey through Kashi! Warm regards, The Roobaroo Walks Team
via Tripadvisor
Highly recommended - A Fascinating Journey Through Varanasi's Time and Space
The heritage walk with Anupam was an absolute delight! He was incredibly knowledgeable, weaving together captivating stories of the city's mythology, spirituality, historical background and geographical insights. He took us through temples, bazaars, fragrant flower market, ghats, and charming eateries offering delicious local delicacies which we wouldn't have known otherwise. The walk was thoroughly enjoyable. Anupam patiently answered all our questions staying beyond the allocated time of the tour. Thank you for being so generous! I highly recommend it to anyone interested in immersing in Varanasi's soul and energy.
Response from the operator: Dear Rishi, Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re delighted to hear that you had such a fascinating journey through Varanasi with Anupam. His deep knowledge and storytelling truly bring the city’s history, mythology, and spirit to life. It’s great to know that you enjoyed exploring the temples, bazaars, flower market, and local eateries—these hidden gems are what make Varanasi so special! We truly appreciate your kind words about Anupam’s generosity and patience. Your recommendation means a lot to us, and we’re so glad you had an enriching experience. Hope to see you again for another walk through the city’s timeless charm! Best Regards, Team Roobaroo
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 3 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $40 to $3,680
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 10
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Why this scores 73
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Varanasi North and Manikarnika Walking Tour: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Varanasi.
How much does Varanasi North and Manikarnika Walking Tour cost?
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Prices start at $40 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Varanasi usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Varanasi North and Manikarnika Walking Tour take?
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Plan for about 3 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Varanasi is not rushed.
Is Varanasi North and Manikarnika Walking Tour worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 73 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 28 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Varanasi, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Varanasi North and Manikarnika Walking Tour?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Varanasi North and Manikarnika Walking Tour suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 3-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Varanasi North and Manikarnika Walking Tour?
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Around 10 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Varanasi can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Varanasi and add a light layer if any part of the 3-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Varanasi North and Manikarnika Walking Tour start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Varanasi within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Varanasi?
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On Outty we rank every Varanasi experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Hidden Secrets of Varanasi: Vibrant Tradition (Guided Tour), The Ultimate 1 Day in Varanasi - How to Spend 13 Hours - Private Guided Tour, A Journey of A lifetime. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Varanasi?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Varanasi?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Varanasi North and Manikarnika Walking Tour?
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Included: All Fees and Taxes. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
What languages is Varanasi North and Manikarnika Walking Tour offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Varanasi North and Manikarnika Walking Tour?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Varanasi North and Manikarnika Walking Tour wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; and Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Varanasi North and Manikarnika Walking Tour if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Varanasi North and Manikarnika Walking Tour?
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Across 28 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include knowledge and storytelling, food and drink, the guide. Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
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