Godowlia & Vishwanath Gali
गोदौलिया
The busiest crossroads in the old city, and the lane market leading to the Golden Temple. It sells Banarasi silk saris, bangles, offerings and street snacks.
Godowlia is the busiest junction in the old city. To the east it leads to Dashashwamedh Ghat, and to the north the Vishwanath Gali lanes lead to the Golden Temple. The narrow lanes are lined with shops selling Banarasi brocade saris, bangles, brassware, prayer beads and flower garlands for offerings. You can also try Varanasi specialities such as lassi, fried flatbread, paan (betel-leaf parcels) and other street snacks. The area is crowded with people and vehicles, and cows wander through, so explore on foot and keep an eye on your belongings. When buying silk, choose shops with fixed prices, and beware of touts who steer tourists to particular shops for commissions.
Opening hours
Approx. 09:00–22:00
Nearby sights
- Dashashwamedh Ghat
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple
- Man Mandir Ghat & Jantar Mantar
- Darbhanga Ghat
- Nepali Temple at Lalita Ghat
- Scindia Ghat
- Manikarnika Ghat
- Kedar Ghat