Souvenirs you must buy from Varanasi
From extravagant evening Aartis by the banks of the holy Ganges, spectacular sunset boat rides, soul-cleansing temple visits and gastronomical delights, Varanasi is a city that has much to offer tourists. Let us also not overlook the fact that the markets of Varanasi are bustling with exquisite ware, making it a collector’s paradise. In this article, we have explained the top 5 best souvenirs you must buy from Varanasi.
Whether you visit this ancient city as a pilgrim or as a tourist, it is a great idea to take home souvenirs that remind you of your time spent here. Here are five such amazing keepsakes that you should buy for yourself or as gifts for loved ones on your next trip to Varanasi.
Ganga Jal
With all cultural, social and economic aspects of Banaras being closely linked to the River Ganga, it is a quintessential symbol of this historic city. Pilgrims come from all over the world to dip in its holy waters and wash away sins. This holy water, called Ganga Jal, is available in sealed plastic and copper cans at various shops in the city. The water in these vessels is clear as it is obtained from mid-stream. Purchase a sealed copper can which will not leak, and you can store it for years.
Gulabi Meenakari
An indigenous craft form of Varanasi that is known to few, Gulabi Meenakari uses precious metals like gold and silver to create intricate details on figurines, jewelry, trinket boxes and other décor items. The dominance of pink color makes this craft unique to Varanasi. Gulabi Minakari is rather expensive due to the use of precious metals and the time-consuming nature of the art. However, little trinket boxes, animal figurines and jewelry are available for smaller budgets.
Wooden Toys
Colorful wooden toys made by expert wood crafters in Khojwa area of Varanasi make delightful keepsakes and gifts. You can find these toys all over the winding lanes of the city. Figures of Lord Shiva and his entire family are some of the most sought-after wooden figures. You will also find human figurines in traditional attire, Russian dolls and a variety of keychains and animal models.
Glass beads
Varanasi has the world’s largest factory for glass beads. This manufacturing unit sells both machine-produced beads as well as exquisite hand-made ones in various sizes and colors. The beads are very colorful and perfect for artwork and jewelry making. You can find beautiful jewelry made from these vibrant beads in various shops. So, don’t forget to add it to your collection of artificial jewelry.
Iconic Banarasi saree
A visit to Varanasi is incomplete till you buy the world-famous Banarasi saree. These six-yard drapes are painstakingly handmade by master weavers using the finest quality silk and gold and silver zari threads. Original Banarasi sarees take weeks or even months to create and feature exotic traditional Indian-Persian motifs that are tastefully woven on fine silk.
To find genuine heirloom quality Banarasi sarees of exemplary beauty, visit JDS Varanasi. When you include JDS Varanasi in your Kashi itinerary, you are sure to find the most amazing variety of Banarasi sarees and go home with nothing but the very best.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the best things to buy in Varanasi?
Some of the best things to buy in Varanasi include authentic Banarasi sarees, Ganga Jal, Gulabi Meenakari handicrafts, handmade wooden toys, and colourful glass beads. These souvenirs reflect the city’s rich cultural and artistic heritage.
2. What are the most unique things to buy in Varanasi?
If you are looking for unique things to buy in Varanasi, consider Gulabi Meenakari jewellery, traditional wooden toys from Khojwa, handcrafted glass bead accessories, and heirloom Banarasi silk sarees that cannot be found elsewhere.
3. Which souvenirs from Varanasi are ideal for gifting?
Banarasi sarees, Gulabi Meenakari trinket boxes, decorative wooden toys, and jewellery made from Varanasi’s famous glass beads make thoughtful souvenirs and memorable gifts for friends and family.
4. What should pilgrims buy from Varanasi?
Pilgrims often purchase sealed containers of Ganga Jal, religious idols, wooden figures of Lord Shiva and his family, and traditional Banarasi sarees as sacred reminders of their visit to Kashi.
5. Why are Banarasi sarees considered the most iconic things to buy from Varanasi?
Banarasi sarees are handcrafted using fine silk and intricate zari work by skilled artisans. Their timeless beauty, heritage craftsmanship, and cultural significance make them one of the most famous purchases from Varanasi.
6. Where can I buy authentic Banarasi sarees in Varanasi?
For genuine heirloom-quality Banarasi sarees, shoppers can visit JDS Varanasi, a trusted name known for its traditional craftsmanship, wide variety, and commitment to authenticity.
7. Are Gulabi Meenakari products worth buying in Varanasi?
Yes. Gulabi Meenakari is a rare art form unique to Varanasi that uses gold and silver detailing. Its intricate craftsmanship and distinctive pink enamel work make it a valuable souvenir.
8. What are the famous handicrafts of Varanasi?
Some of the most famous handicrafts of Varanasi include Gulabi Meenakari, Banarasi silk weaving, handcrafted wooden toys from Khojwa, and decorative products made using colourful glass beads.
9. Can I buy traditional wooden toys in Varanasi?
Yes. The Khojwa area of Varanasi is renowned for its handcrafted wooden toys, including religious figurines, Russian dolls, animal models, and colourful keepsakes loved by both children and collectors.
10. What is the best souvenir to remember a trip to Varanasi?
While every traveller has different preferences, authentic Banarasi sarees, sealed Ganga Jal, Gulabi Meenakari artefacts, and handcrafted wooden toys are among the most cherished souvenirs from Varanasi.
