A handpicked selection of experiences endorsed by our experts. If you can’t see what you’re looking for, let us know, as our extensive network of local contacts can open many doors.
Go to an akhara, a traditional wrestling gym limited to men only. They are so popular today that most men in Varanasi still visit an akhara rather than a modern gym.
See Indian fine art at the Bharat Kala Bhavan, an art and architecture museum located in Banara Hindu University. Established in 1920, the museum houses a collection of Buddhist and Hindu sculptures and paintings and other archaeological artifacts.
Late October is the best time to go to Varanasi as this is when Diwali, the “Festival of Light,” occurs. Celebrated by Hindus, Jains and Sikhs, Diwali marks the victory of good over evil and the return of good will and faith.
Experience dawn on the Ganges, an unforgettable sight. Take a private boat from Dashashvamedha ghat, one of the most spectacular of these famous stairs that lead to the river’s edge, to Manikarnika ghat. Hindu lore tells that Vishwanath Temple, located at Dashashvamedha ghat, was created by Lord Brahma in order to welcome Lord Shiva.
Visit Jnana-Pravaha, a cultural institute based in Varanasi which houses Indian scion Suresh Neotia’s collection of Indian fine art. Jnana-Pravaha aims to promote and disseminate information on Indian culture through academic workshops, lectures and the presentation of varied forms of visual and performing arts.
Drive to a scenic ghat on the Ganges and witness a puja at dusk. A puja is a religious rite performed by Hindus, although it is also common in Buddhism and Jainism. The ritual is a daily reminder of the link between the earthly and celestial worlds.
Visit Ramnagar Fort, a red standstone structure built in the 18th century, for a spectacular staging of the Ramayana, the Hindu epic centered around the avatar Rama, his lover Seeta, the faithful monkey-god Hanuman, and the evil king Ravana. Meet the actors of this well-known story, and watch them get into costume and make up for tonight’s performance.
The Fort also has a temple and a museum within the grounds. The museum displays include vintage cars, an armory of swords and old guns, ivory work and antique clocks.
Visit Sarnath, a holy place where Buddha first taught the dharma, the Hindu term meaning one’s righteous duty, to five disciples over 2,500 years ago. The 143-foot (44 meters) high, 5th-century Dhamekh Stupa is supposedly built exactly where Buddha delivered this sermon.
Visit HM Textiles located near Dulli Gaddi near the Yamuna Talkies, and Silkways located behind Hotel Clarks, to buy some locally spun silk. Supposedly even Buddha was covered in silk from Varanasi (then called Benares) when he attained nirvana. Some of the stores even have silk looms in the back where you can see cloth being made via an antiquated punch-card system.
Explore Vishwanath Gali, a triangular labyrinth of shops and religious sites in the center of Varanasi. Backpackers and long-term Varanasi residents alike wander through here, eating at chaat, or snack stands, and buying bangles, toys, trinkets, pieces for altars in the home, and other sundries.
Explore in-depth information, experiences and highlights by navigating to specific regions using the links below on the right.
With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.
With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, in the continent that our north American founders Catherine and Jay have adored and explored for decades, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.
Multi-Country Specialists
Remote Lands
Choose somewhere you’d like to visit, something you’re interested in, and when you’re planning to travel and we’ll suggest sample itineraries to inspire your bespoke journey.
An Asia-focused magazine brought to you by Remote Lands – a platform for adventure, luxury, and authenticity from experts and explorers around the continent.
Varanasi is a shock to the senses, and is pure India at “full speed ahead” mode. It is crowded, dirty, bizarre and 100 other adjectives.
Jay Tindall has been shooting sadhus for more than two decades; down his lens, the varied faces of the holy men of Nepal and India tell tales.
Seeing the festivals of India isn’t difficult if you get a flight and a car, but to see it in style takes a little Remote Lands know-how. This luxury guide to India festivals will put you on the right track.
Here is a small selection of the kind words our guests have said about us, as well as features by journalists and travel writers.
From the moment I happened upon the REMOTE LANDS website over a year ago, browsed the options, I knew that this would be well worth it. The entire staff is nothing less than professional with service that made us feel like royals.
This was truly the trip of a lifetime. Magical destinations, the most luxurious hotels in the world, and the most wonderful travel companions we could’ve wished for. We were treated like family everywhere we went and we have 14 new best friends.
We have used some of the top rated travel specialists all over the world and, without question, Catherine Heald and Remote Lands are at the very top of the list!