Varanasi’s New Shopping-and-Snacking Hub: The Regional Saras Fair Lights Up Chaukaghat

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Varanasi has a vibrant new attraction this week — the Regional Saras Fair at the Sampurnanand Sanskrit University sports ground in Chaukaghat. Organised under DAY-NRLM, the fair brings together women-led self-help groups and artisans from multiple states, transforming the venue into a bustling lane of crafts, regional foods, and evening cultural performances.

The fair was inaugurated by district panchayat president Poonam Maurya and district magistrate Satyendra Kumar, who also emphasized the “Lakhpati” programme designed to help SHG women expand their income opportunities. According to organisers, the fair will remain open until March 20, 2026.

What to Shop

Aisle-wise browsing is the smartest way to make the most of the fair.
Textiles to explore include:

  • Silk sarees

  • Chikan work garments

  • Zari and zardozi pieces

  • Bed sheets

  • Everyday-use jute bags

For gifting and décor, look out for:

  • Black pottery

  • Bamboo and jute craft items

  • Wooden and soft toys

  • Decorative products

  • Traditional glass bangles

Food lovers have just as much to enjoy. The counters offer an array of pickles, murabba, coconut-based products, organic items, and rotating regional delicacies from states such as Telangana, Haryana, and Odisha.

Visitor Details

The fair is open daily from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM, giving visitors the flexibility to shop during the day and return later for cultural performances. Organisers expect around 5,000 visitors per day, so weekday visits offer a more relaxed browsing and bargaining experience.

Carry UPI for smooth transactions, keep some cash handy, and pack delicate pottery in a separate bag for safety. The venue is conveniently accessible from both Chaukaghat and Cantt-side routes, with autos and e-rickshaws being the most efficient option during peak hours.

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