Asia 2026

On the second day we could rest- the family, however, was busy planning and organising for the upcoming days.

We had to move hotels, and were given a very warm welcome by the hotel manager and his staff. It was very sweet and we appreciated it, at the same time we didn’t understand why we were greeted like king&queen when we’re just some little backpackers 😅 although Varanasi has many Hindu/Indian tourists that visit the city, there are not many foreigners so maybe that is why.

On our day off we explored the market and enjoyed the tiny winding streets of the old city.

Particularly interesting was trying Malaiyo for the first time! It is a rare, cloud-like, frothy winter sweet dish from Varanasi, available only from November to February. Made by churning milk under the open night sky to absorb dew, it is flavored with saffron, cardamom, and garnished with pistachios, offering a light, melt-in-the-mouth texture. Also known as Nimish or Makhan Malai, it is typically served in clay cups (kulhad) in the early morning.

It was soooooooo dreamy 😍

Also featured here is Jalebi, a sweet I really like. Often considered a national delicacy, these crispy, syrupy, orange or yellow coils are made from fermented flour batter and served hot during festivals and celebrations. They are similar to funnel cakes and often paired with milk or yogurt.
I got them for breakfast hehe 😜Read more