11 Things You Should avoid to Do in Varanasi
Varanasi is a holy city and a popular pilgrimage destination for Hindus. It is also a popular tourist destination, known for its unique culture, atmosphere, and food. However, there are a few things that you should never do in Varanasi, in order to respect the religious sentiments of the Hindus and to have a pleasant experience.
Things You Should avoid to Do in Varanasi
Here are 11 things you should never do in Varanasi:
- Disrespectful dressing: Varanasi is a holy city, so it is important to dress respectfully when visiting temples and other religious sites. This means avoiding revealing clothing, such as shorts, tank tops, and miniskirts. It is also important to cover your shoulders and head when entering a temple.
- Eating beef: Cows are considered to be sacred animals in Hinduism, so it is important to avoid eating beef in Varanasi. There are many other delicious vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes that you can enjoy in Varanasi.
- Touching people without permission: It is important to be respectful of people’s personal space in Varanasi, especially when visiting temples and other religious sites. Avoid touching people without their permission, as this can be considered rude.
- Taking photos of cremations: Cremations are a sacred Hindu ritual, so it is important to be respectful of the deceased and their families. Avoid taking photos of cremations, as this can be considered disrespectful.
- Begging: Begging is a problem in many parts of India, including Varanasi. However, it is important to avoid giving money to beggars in Varanasi, as this can encourage begging and make the problem worse.
- Littering: Littering is a problem in many parts of India, including Varanasi. However, it is important to be responsible and to dispose of your trash properly in Varanasi. This will help to keep the city clean and healthy.
- Drinking alcohol or smoking in public: Drinking alcohol and smoking in public is considered to be disrespectful in Varanasi, especially near temples and other religious sites. Avoid drinking alcohol or smoking in public, as this can offend people.
- Arguing with people: It is important to be polite and respectful to everyone you meet in Varanasi. Avoid arguing with people, as this can lead to conflict.
- Being disrespectful to animals: Animals are considered to be sacred in Hinduism, so it is important to be respectful to all animals in Varanasi. Avoid harming or harassing animals, as this can be considered a sin.
- Taking photos of people without permission: It is important to be respectful of people’s privacy in Varanasi. Avoid taking photos of people without their permission, as this can be considered rude.
- Trying to convert people to your religion: Varanasi is a holy city for Hindus, so it is important to be respectful of their religion. Avoid trying to convert people to your religion, as this can be considered offensive.
Conclusion
Varanasi is a unique and special city. It is a place where you can experience the rich culture and history of Hinduism. By following these tips, you can have a pleasant and respectful experience in Varanasi.