Varanasi, also known as Banaras or Kashi, is a city located in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and is considered one of the holiest cities in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism.
Varanasi is situated on the banks of the Ganges river, which is considered sacred by Hindus, and is famous for its ghats (steps leading down to the river) where pilgrims perform religious rituals and ceremonies. The city is also known for its numerous temples, including the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Apart from its religious significance, Varanasi is also known for its vibrant culture and rich history. The city has been a center of learning, art, and music for centuries and is famous for its silk weaving industry, which produces the world-famous Banarasi sarees.
Varanasi is also a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to experience its unique blend of spirituality, culture, and history.
Varanasi Tourist Places
Here are some of the best places to visit in Varanasi:
1. Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Hindus. The temple has been destroyed and rebuilt several times over the centuries and is considered one of the holiest places in India.
2. Dashashwamedh Ghat
This is one of the most famous ghats in Varanasi and is known for its evening aarti ceremony, where devotees offer prayers to the Ganges river.
3. Sarnath
Located just a few kilometers from Varanasi, Sarnath is an important Buddhist pilgrimage site. It is where the Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment.
4. Ramnagar Fort
This is a beautiful fort located on the banks of the Ganges river. It was built in the 18th century by the Maharaja of Banaras and is known for its intricate architecture.
5. Manikarnika Ghat
This ghat is known as the main cremation ghat in Varanasi. It is believed that if a person is cremated here, they attain moksha (liberation from the cycle of birth and death).
6. Banaras Hindu University
This is one of the largest universities in India and is known for its beautiful campus and academic excellence.
7. Tulsi Manas Temple
This temple is dedicated to Lord Rama and is known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings.
8. Assi Ghat
This ghat is known for its beautiful sunrise and sunset views. It is also a popular spot for boat rides on the Ganges river.
These are just a few of the many tourist places to visit in Varanasi. The city has a rich cultural heritage and offers a unique experience for travelers looking to explore India’s spiritual side.
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Things to do in Varanasi
Varanasi is a city with a rich cultural heritage and offers many unique experiences for travelers. Here are some of the things to do in Varanasi:
- Attend the evening aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat: This is a beautiful and spiritual experience, where devotees offer prayers to the Ganges river and seek blessings from the gods.
- Take a boat ride on the Ganges river: This is a great way to experience the beauty and spirituality of the river and witness the rituals and ceremonies taking place on the ghats.
- Explore the narrow lanes of the old city: Varanasi’s old city is known for its narrow lanes and beautiful architecture. Walking through these lanes is a great way to experience the city’s rich cultural heritage.
- Visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple: This is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Hindus and is known for its beautiful architecture and spiritual significance.
- Enjoy a Banarasi paan: Banarasi paan is a popular local delicacy, made with betel leaves, areca nut, and other ingredients. Trying this unique delicacy is a must when in Varanasi.
- Visit Sarnath: Sarnath is an important Buddhist pilgrimage site and is known for its beautiful stupas and temples. It is a great place to learn about the history and teachings of Buddhism.
- Witness a cremation ceremony: While this may seem morbid, witnessing a cremation ceremony at Manikarnika Ghat is a unique experience that offers insight into the spiritual beliefs of the people of Varanasi.
- Shop for Banarasi sarees: Varanasi is known for its beautiful silk sarees, which are famous all over the world. Shopping for these sarees is a great way to take home a piece of the city’s rich cultural heritage.
These are just a few of the many things to do in Varanasi. The city offers a unique and spiritual experience that is unlike anything else in the world.
Uncovering the Hidden Gems of Varanasi sightseeing
While Varanasi has many well-known tourist places, there are also some hidden gems that are worth exploring. Here are some of the lesser-known places to visit in Varanasi:
- Chunar Fort: Located about 45 kilometers from Varanasi, Chunar Fort is a hidden gem that is steeped in history. The fort was built in the 11th century and is known for its beautiful architecture and stunning views of the Ganges river.
- Kedar Ghat: This is a lesser-known ghat in Varanasi, but it is just as beautiful as some of the more famous ones. It is a great place to witness the morning rituals and ceremonies.
- Bharat Kala Bhavan: This museum is located on the campus of Banaras Hindu University and is home to a vast collection of art, artifacts, and manuscripts from all over India. It is a great place to learn about the rich cultural heritage of the country.
- Tulsidas Ghat: This ghat is named after the famous poet Tulsidas and is known for its beautiful sculptures and carvings.
- Kaal Bhairav Temple: This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located in a small lane in the old city. It is known for its unique architecture and spiritual significance.
- Jantar Mantar: This is a small observatory located in the old city. It was built in the 18th century and is one of the five observatories built by Maharaja Jai Singh II.
- Nepali Temple: This temple is located in the heart of the old city and is known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings. It is a great place to learn about the cultural and religious ties between India and Nepal.
- Ramgarh Fort: This is a beautiful fort located on the outskirts of Varanasi. It is known for its stunning views of the surrounding countryside and is a great place for a picnic or a day trip.
These hidden gems of Varanasi offer a unique and authentic glimpse into the city’s rich cultural heritage and are definitely worth exploring.
