Discover the magic of Banaras, the City of Ghats. Stroll along the Ghats of Banaras and soak in the spirituality that flows with the Ganges River. Whether you’re interested in the ancient rituals, the vibrant Banaras culture and traditions, or just a peaceful escape, this guide is perfect for you. From the rich history of the Ganges River Ghats to the soulful experiences of Spiritual Travel, Cultural Tourism, and Pilgrimage, Banaras truly is the heart of India Travel Destinations. Join us as we explore the wonders of Banaras Tourism and share our unforgettable Travel Diaries.
Varanasi, located in India, is a revered city that claims to be among the oldest continuously inhabited places globally, boasting a rich historical legacy. As per Rig Veda scriptures, the city was initially known as Kashi and underwent an official renaming to Varanasi in 1956. The translation of Kashi to ‘to shine’ in English lends Varanasi the epithet “City of Lights.”
In Hindu mythology, Varanasi is said to have been founded by Lord Shiva, the deity associated with both creation and destruction. As a significant abode of Lord Shiva, Varanasi is home to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple devoted to him. According to belief, individuals who pass away in Varanasi are considered fortunate as they attain liberation from the cycle of reincarnation. Additionally, immersing oneself in the holy Ganges River is believed to purify and absolve one of all sins.
Hence, numerous elderly individuals choose Varanasi as their final dwelling place, seeking to spend their last days in this sacred city. Priests carry out the concluding rituals for those who pass away within its confines.
Beyond its significance in Hinduism, Varanasi holds a sacred status in Buddhism as well. In approximately 528 BC, Gautam Buddha delivered his inaugural sermon on Buddhism, and Sarnath, situated in Varanasi, stands as a noteworthy location featuring temples, stupas, and sites associated with the Buddhist faith.
How To Reach Varanasi
When planning your journey from New Delhi to Varanasi, you have several transportation options to consider. There are different modes of travel available between these two destinations:
- Flight
- Bus
- Train
- Taxi
If you prioritize a swift journey, it is advisable to opt for a flight. On the other hand, if you prefer a more leisurely and cost-effective travel experience, booking a train ticket is a suitable choice.
The travel expenses will vary depending on the mode of transportation you select for your trip. Taxi fares represent the most expensive option, amounting to approximately ₹10,000-₹12,000. For a more budget-friendly alternative, choosing a train is recommended, with ticket prices starting as low as ₹583.
Places To Visit In Varanasi
With a history spanning over 2000 years of human habitation, Kashi stands as one of the oldest cities globally. Here are some of the top Varanasi tourist destinations that you should explore to immerse yourself in the rich culture of this ancient city.
- Ramnagar Fort: Situated 14 km from Varanasi, this renowned 18th-century fort, constructed from sandstone, serves as a popular attraction. Originally designed as a defensive stronghold, the fort now hosts a museum featuring a collection of vintage automobiles, hookahs, antique weapons, jewel-adorned chairs, and an impressive astronomical clock. Within the fort, a temple pays homage to Veda Vyasa, the esteemed author of the Mahabharata.
- Ghats Of Varanasi: While in Benaras, indulging in its street food and navigating the bustling lanes near the Ghats is a must. The Ganga Aarti ceremony along the Ghats of Ganga is a grand spectacle not to be missed. Regardless of the time of day, the Ghats are frequented by spiritual seekers and pilgrims engaging in ritualistic bathing. Here are some renowned Ghats of Varanasi that promise a unique and enriching life experience.
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Situated on the banks of the River Ganga, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple stands as the most revered temple in Varanasi. Recognized as one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, it is dedicated to Lord Shiva, with Vishwanath as the primary deity, holding profound significance for Hindus. Devotees often take ritual baths in the sacred Jnana Vapi. Referenced in various holy Hindu scriptures, the temple showcases intricate carvings and features smaller shrines dedicated to deities such as Kaalbhairav, Vishnu, Virupaksh Gauri, Vinayaka, and Avimukteshwara.
- Bharat Kala Bhavan: Established by Madan Mohan Malviya, the Benaras Hindu University encompasses the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum within its campus. This museum boasts a diverse collection of Indian paintings spanning from the 11th to the 20th century. Among its treasures are Mughal miniatures, Gandhara sculptures, depictions of the marriage of Shiva and Parvati, and various other captivating attractions.
- Ganga Aarti: One of the highly anticipated and daily witnessed events in Varanasi is the Ganga Aarti. Led by the priest in traditional attire of dhoti and kurta, the Aarti unfolds on a set of five elevated planks. The priest utilizes a layered brass lamp, an idol of Goddess Ganga, incense sticks, flowers, and a conch shell during the ritual. The visual and auditory experience of this spectacle is simultaneously electrifying and meditative. Many onlookers opt for a boat ride from the opposite banks of the Ganga River to witness this Aarti conducted on the Dashashwamedh Ghat. The priest of Gangotri Seva Samiti oversees the Aarti and associated rituals.
- Devdari Waterfalls: Situated 65 km away from Varanasi, the Devdari Waterfalls stand as a prominent attraction, featuring stunning water cascading amidst verdant greenery. With a height of 58 meters, these falls create a picturesque and popular tourist spot.
- Chunar Fort: Situated 40 km from Varanasi, the Chunar Fort is an ancient stronghold located in the town of Chunar, within the Mirzapur district. Founded by Maharaja Vikramaditya and subsequently ruled by the Mughal emperor Babar, this fort is set against the backdrop of the River Ganga, showcasing its natural splendor. The ascent up Chunar Hill offers views of a series of low hills. Key attractions include the Samadhi of Bhartihari, Hanging Place, Sonwa Mandap, and the Bungalow of Warren Hastings. The fort welcomes visitors from 10 am to 4 pm.
- Vishwanath Gali: Known for its vibrant and lively atmosphere, this bustling lane is a renowned destination for street shopping in Varanasi. A popular spot in Benaras, the street offers a diverse array of items at affordable prices. Shoppers can explore traditional and modern goods, including household items, apparel, home decor, and various other products. Additionally, the street is dotted with local vendors selling delicious sweets and snacks, adding to the overall charm of this vibrant shopping destination.
- Rajdari Waterfalls: Situated 60 km from Varanasi in Chandauli, this waterfall serves as a popular picnic spot, offering visitors a visual delight with its expansive and impressive cascades. Many individuals venture to the top spot of these falls to enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding valley.
- Lakhaniya Dari Waterfall: Located 54 km from Varanasi, these waterfalls showcase a splendid sight, cascading from a height of 150 meters, particularly captivating during the monsoon season. The water from the falls is collected in the Ahraura Dam, creating a picturesque setting that serves as a popular picnic spot for trekkers. Visitors often bring food and relish the scenic beauty of the falls during the daytime.
- St. Mary’s Church: St. Mary’s Church, renowned for its exquisite doors and ventilation, stands as a popular place of worship. The church features captivating designs and a projecting portico, adding to its architectural charm. Visitors can explore the beauty of St. Mary’s Church, as it opens daily at 7 am and closes at 8 pm.
- Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple: This Hindu pilgrimage center in Varanasi is a well-loved destination dedicated to Lord Hanuman. Situated near the banks of River Assi, the temple was constructed by Madan Mohan Malviya in the 1900s. A particularly significant event at this temple is the celebration of Hanuman Jayanti, marked by a special procession arranged within the temple premises.
- Banaras Hindu University (BHU) Temple: Situated within the BHU campus, this temple is appropriately named and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. In addition to the main deity, it houses several other temples and features numerous paintings depicting scenes from Hindu scriptures. The temple offers a serene and tidy environment, complemented by surrounding gardens, making it an ideal destination for a peaceful and enjoyable outing with family.
Best Time To Visit Varanasi
Varanasi is situated along the banks of the Ganges River in the Indo-Gangetic plains region. The area experiences a harsh summer season, characterized by dry and humid conditions, as the city is located just 80 meters above sea level. Despite the challenging climate, Varanasi’s prime beauty in the context of religious rituals remains consistent throughout the year. The optimal time to explore the city is from October to the end of March. However, if you can tolerate the heat and are interested in engaging in spiritual activities and witnessing vibrant celebrations, April and May can also be considered. These months bring a burst of color to Varanasi, marked by intriguing festivals and religious rituals.
Best Place To Eat In Varanasi
Varanasi, also known as Benaras, a sacred city in Uttar Pradesh, is renowned for its delectable street foods. A visit to Varanasi is incomplete without savoring the authentic street delicacies it has to offer. From beginning your day with chai and kachori to concluding it with flavorful chaats and sweet delights, the city provides a culinary experience that caters to diverse tastes. To enhance your gastronomic journey, here are some must-try street foods of Varanasi.
- Chrystal Bowl, Lanka
- Kashi Chat Bhandar, Godaulia
- Pizzeria Vaatika Café, Assi Ghat
- Aum Café, Assi Ghat
- Zaika Family Restaurant, Bhelupur
- Dolphin Restaurant, Dashaswamedh Road
- Deena Chaat Bhandar, Godaulia
- Itihaas Alley Kitchen, Assi Ghat
- Aadha-Aadha Cafe, Dashaswmedh Ghat
- Mangi Ferra Café, Nadesar
- India City Family Restaurant, Nadesar
- Canton Royale Restaurant, Nadesar
- Roof Top Restaurant, Assi Ghat
- Sri Annapurna Restaurant, Sigra
- Baati Chokha Restaurant, Dashaswamedh Road
Stays In Varanasi
Choosing the right accommodation is as crucial as crafting the ideal itinerary, as your stay significantly influences the quality of your vacation. To assist you in this regard, here is a compilation of some of the finest hotels in Varanasi that you may want to consider for your next visit: –
Luxury Hotels in Varanasi:
- Brijrama Palace (the only property by the riverbank)
- Taj Nadesar Palace (4.6km off the main ghat)
- Guleria Kothi
- Amritara Suryauday Haveli
Mid-Range Hostels in Varanasi:
- Tara Guest House
- Ganges Grand
- Granny’s Inn
- Stay Banaras
- Aashray
Budget Stays in Varanasi:
- Rahul Guest House
- Alka Guest House
- Suraj Guest House
Hostels in Varanasi:
- Go Stops
- Chatter Box
- Wander Station
- Zostel
Stay close to the Godowlia market (Dasaswamedh Ghat):
- Fab Hotel Park Avenue
- Sai Palace
That’s it from the Varanasi blogs, stay connected to go through many more such blogs lined up!!
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