If you are looking for the best sweets in Varanasi, you have come to the right place.
As a local who has visited Varanasi a couple of times, I know which are the best sweets one should definitely try in Varanasi.
Varanasi, also known as Kashi, is one of the oldest and holiest cities in India. Besides its amazing tourist sites and tasteful street foods, the city is also renowned for its delectable sweets.
The traditional sweets of Varanasi are deeply ingrained in its culture and have a unique taste that appeals to both locals and visitors.
In this article, I will take you on a sweet journey through the narrow alleys of Varanasi to explore the best sweets in Varanasi that you must try when you visit this vibrant city.
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Famous Sweets in Varanasi
1. Malaiyo
Malaiyo, also known as Nimish, is a heavenly dessert that is one of the most famous sweets in Varanasi. It is a winter delicacy made from thickened milk, saffron, and cardamom, and topped with dry fruits.
The unique part is the frothiness, which is achieved by whisking the milk for hours. Malaiyo practically melts in your mouth, leaving a lingering taste that you will cherish forever.
2. Malai Laddu
If you have a sweet tooth, Malai Laddu is the treat for you. These soft, creamy laddus are made from milk solids, khoya, and are flavored with cardamom.
The laddus are then rolled in desiccated coconut, adding a delightful texture to each bite.
The balance of sweetness and the richness of milk make Malai Laddu a heavenly experience for anyone with a penchant for sweets.
3. Banarasi Kalakand
No visit to Varanasi is complete without indulging in the heavenly taste of Banarasi Kalakand. Made from paneer (Indian cottage cheese), milk, and sugar, this milk-based delight has a grainy texture that adds a unique charm to its taste.
Infused with the essence of saffron and garnished with pistachios, Kalakand offers a delightful blend of flavors that will leave you craving for more.
4. Sohan Halwa
Sohan Halwa is a royal treat from Varanasi. Made from a rich concoction of milk, ghee, sugar, and topped with crunchy nuts, this halwa is a delicacy that oozes luxury.
The soft, velvety texture of Sohan Halwa will leave you craving for more with every bite.
5. Peda
Peda is a classic sweet that is loved all across India, but the Pedas from Varanasi have their distinct charm. Made from khoya (reduced milk) and flavored with cardamom, these bite-sized sweets are an absolute delight.
Whether it’s a festive occasion or a casual sweet craving, Pedas are always a perfect choice.
6. Rasgulla
While Rasgulla is a well-known sweet in various parts of India, the Varanasi version stands out with its unique sponginess and delectable taste. These spongy cheese balls are soaked in sugar syrup, making them irresistibly sweet and addictive.
Varanasi’s Rasgullas are a favorite among locals and tourists alike, and they make for the perfect dessert after a sumptuous meal.
7. Parval Mithai
Parval Mithai, a unique sweet of Varanasi, is made from the pulp of pointed gourds blended with khoya, sugar, and various nuts.
8. Lavanglata
Lavanglata, a traditional sweet of Varanasi, is a true feast for the senses. Its distinctive shape and heavenly aroma make it an irresistible choice for every sweet lover.
Made from ground cloves, sugar, and khoya (milk solids), this delicacy has a rich, spiced flavor that sets it apart from other sweets.
9. Chandrakala
Chandrakala, a crescent-shaped sweet delicacy, is a true representation of the rich culinary heritage of Varanasi.
Stuffed with a delectable mixture of khoya, dry fruits, and saffron, and drenched in sugar syrup, this dessert is a symphony of textures and flavors that will leave you enchanted.
10. Thandai
Though not exactly sweet, Thandai is a traditional cold drink that is especially popular during the Holi festival.
It is made from a mixture of milk, nuts, saffron, and various spices like fennel, poppy seeds, and cardamom. It has a refreshing and sweet taste, perfect for the hot summers of Varanasi.
I love the Varanasi Street Food Crawl food tour in Varanasi.
Traditional Sweetshops in Varanasi
Here are some iconic sweetshops in Varanasi that are a must-visit during your stay in Varanasi:
1. Ksheer Sagar
Ksheer Sagar is a legendary sweet shop in Varanasi that has been delighting locals and tourists alike since 1948.
The shop is famous for its delectable Malaiyo, a traditional milk-based dessert, and the creamy Malai Peda.
Location – Mahmoorganj, Varanasi (Get Direction)
2. The Ram Bhandar
Ram Bhandar is a quaint sweetshop near the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Here, you can relish the famous Maalpua, a sweet pancake infused with saffron and garnished with dry fruits.
Location – Katra Ratanlal, Thatheri Bazar, Govindpura, Varanasi (Get Direction)
3. Shree Ram Chaat Bhandar
Shree Ram Chaat Bhandar is a haven for both chaat (savory snacks) and sweets.
Their specialty, the Gulab Jamun Chaat, blends the goodness of traditional Gulab Jamun with savory elements, creating a burst of flavors in your mouth.
Location – Chetmani Crossing, Bhelupur, Bhelupura, Varanasi (Get Direction)
4. Kashi Chat Bhandar
Kashi Chat Bhandar is not only famous for its savory chaat but also for its unique take on traditional sweets.
The Tamatar Chaat, made from ripe tomatoes and special spices, is a must-try there. For those with a penchant for different flavors, this sweetshop is a must-visit.
Location – Girja Ghar Chauraha, Badadev, Godowlia, Varanasi (Get Direction)
5. Shri Rajbandhu Sweets
Shri Rajbandhu Sweets is also one of the best sweetshops in Varanasi which is a paradise for dessert enthusiasts.
Their Malai Chena Peda, made from fresh cottage cheese and flavored with cardamom, is a crowd favorite. The fusion of textures and flavors makes this sweetshop an unforgettable experience.
Location – Rathyatra Kamachha Road, Gurubagh, Varanasi (Get Direction)
The Sweet Festivals
In Varanasi, sweets are an integral part of the city’s festivals and celebrations. During occasions like Diwali, Holi, Eid, and weddings, the air is filled with the aroma of sweets and the joy of sharing them with loved ones.
During Diwali, the festival of lights, households prepare an assortment of sweets to offer to guests and share the joy of the occasion. Some popular Diwali sweets include Kaju Katli, Gulab Jamun, Soan Papdi, and more.
Holi, the festival of colors, is synonymous with the playful indulgence of sweets like Gujiya, a delectable dumpling filled with sweetened khoya, dry fruits, and coconut.
Eid, the festival that marks the end of Ramadan, is also celebrated with great enthusiasm in Varanasi.
Seviyan, a sweet vermicelli dessert, is a traditional Eid delicacy prepared and savored with love by both Muslims and non-Muslims.
Conclusion – Famous Sweets in Varanasi
Varanasi’s culinary heritage is as diverse as its spiritual legacy, and its sweets add a unique flavor to the city’s essence. From the divine Malaiyo to the sweet and savory Tamatar Chaat, each dessert has a story to tell.
So, the next time you visit Varanasi, make sure to indulge in these top sweets for a memorable gastronomic experience.
“Varanasi Street Food Crawl” is my favorite food tour in Varanasi.
FAQs – Famous Sweets in Varanasi
1. Where can I find these sweets in Varanasi?
You can find these sweets at local sweet shops, especially in the bustling markets and near famous temples.
2. Are these sweets suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, all the sweets mentioned in the article are vegetarian-friendly.
3. Can I buy these sweets as souvenirs?
Absolutely! Many sweet shops offer attractive packaging, making them perfect gifts for loved ones.
4. Are these sweets too sweet for diabetic individuals?
It’s best for individuals with diabetes to consume these sweets in moderation, considering their sugar content.
5. Is Malaiyo available throughout the year?
No, Malaiyo is a winter delicacy, so it’s typically available during the colder months.