Varanasi
Varanasi, also known as Kashi, is one of the oldest cities in the world, located on the banks of the River Ganges in northern India. It is a major spiritual and cultural center, especially for Hindus, who visit the city to perform rituals and take a holy dip in the river. The city is famous for its sacred ghats, such as Dashashwamedh Ghat and Manikarnika Ghat, where people gather for prayers and the famous Ganga Aarti.
Varanasi is also known for its ancient temples, narrow streets, and vibrant markets. With its deep spiritual significance and rich traditions, Varanasi offers a unique and meaningful experience for visitors.
1. Dashashwamedh Ghat
Description
Dashashwamedh Ghat is one of the most popular and oldest ghats in Varanasi. Located along the banks of the Ganges River, it is a bustling spot where pilgrims come to take a dip in the holy river. In the evenings, the Ghat comes alive with the famous Ganga Aarti ceremony, which is a spiritual experience of lights and chants.
Historical Significance of Dashashwamedh Ghat
According to Hindu mythology, Lord Brahma created this Ghat to welcome Lord Shiva. It is considered to be a sacred place, and the Aarti performed here attracts devotees from across the world.
Location of Dashashwamedh Ghat
Located in the heart of Varanasi, near Godowlia.
Traveling
Easily accessible by auto-rickshaw or on foot from nearby locations. It is about 4 km from the Varanasi Railway Station.
Nearby Eateries
- Kashi Chat Bhandar: Known for its local street food.
- Bana Lassi: Famous for traditional lassi.
Website
Cost
Free to visit, but donations are welcome during Aarti.
2. Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Description
Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most famous Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is an important religious site, and devotees believe that visiting the temple and offering prayers brings liberation from the cycle of life and death. The gold-plated spire is a significant feature of the temple.
Historical Significance of Kashi Vishwanath Temple
The temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, which are considered to be the most sacred abodes of Lord Shiva. It has been rebuilt multiple times, with the current structure dating back to the 18th century.
Location of Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Situated near the Dashashwamedh Ghat in Varanasi.
Traveling
Accessible by auto-rickshaw or cycle rickshaw from any part of Varanasi. It is about 5 km from the Varanasi Railway Station.
Nearby Eateries
- Deena Chat Bhandar: A popular spot for street food.
- Blue Lassi Shop: Famous for sweet lassis.
Website
Cost
Entry is free, but there is a small fee for special darshan (VIP access).
3. Manikarnika Ghat
Description
Manikarnika Ghat is one of the holiest cremation grounds in Varanasi, where Hindus believe that being cremated ensures the soul’s liberation. The Ghat is always busy with funeral pyres, making it a powerful and spiritual place.
Historical Significance of Manikarnika Ghat
It is said that Goddess Parvati’s earrings (Manikarnika) fell here, making it a sacred spot. The ghat has been a major cremation site for centuries.
Location of Manikarnika Ghat
Located near the Kashi Vishwanath Temple on the banks of the Ganges.
Traveling
Accessible by foot or rickshaw from the main streets of Varanasi.
Nearby Eateries
- Madhur Milan Cafe: Known for vegetarian dishes.
- Vishnu Tea Emporium: A popular spot for tea and snacks.
Website
Cost
Free to visit.
4. Assi Ghat
Description
Assi Ghat is a quieter and more serene Ghat compared to Dashashwamedh Ghat. It’s a popular place for pilgrims and tourists to take a dip in the holy Ganges. The Ghat is also a center for yoga and cultural activities, especially during sunrise.
Historical Significance of Assi Ghat
It is said that Lord Shiva, after defeating a demon, came to rest at this Ghat, making it a sacred site for devotees.
Location of Assi Ghat
Located in southern Varanasi, around 8 km from the city center.
Traveling
Accessible by rickshaw or taxi, Assi Ghat is about 6 km from the Varanasi Railway Station.
Nearby Eateries
- Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe: A famous spot for pizza and riverside dining.
- Aum Cafe: Known for healthy, organic meals.
Website
Cost
Free to visit.
5. Sarnath
Description
Sarnath is a small town near Varanasi and is one of the four main Buddhist pilgrimage sites. It is where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. The site is home to ancient stupas, a museum, and the famous Dhamek Stupa.
Historical Significance of Sarnath
Sarnath holds immense importance in the history of Buddhism. It marks the beginning of the Buddha’s teachings and has been a major center for Buddhist scholars for centuries.
Location of Sarnath
Located about 10 km from Varanasi city.
Traveling
Easily accessible by car or taxi from Varanasi.
Nearby Eateries
- Sarnath Cafe: Offers Indian and Chinese dishes.
- Lotus Lounge: Known for its relaxed ambiance and variety of food options.
Website
Cost
Free to visit, museum entry costs ₹25 for Indians, ₹300 for foreigners.
6. Ganga Aarti
Description
The Ganga Aarti is a spectacular evening ceremony performed on the ghats of Varanasi, especially at Dashashwamedh Ghat. Priests perform rituals with lamps, incense, and chants to worship the Ganges River. The whole event is an enchanting experience that reflects Varanasi’s deep spiritual essence.
Historical Significance of Ganga Aarti
This ritual has been performed for centuries to honor the Ganges, which is considered the most sacred river in Hinduism. The Aarti signifies the purifying powers of the river.
Location of Ganga Aarti
Mainly held at Dashashwamedh Ghat and Assi Ghat.
Traveling
Accessible by rickshaw, walking, or boat from nearby ghats.
Nearby Eateries
- Brown Bread Bakery: Famous for organic food and bakery items.
- Shiva Cafe: A popular place for snacks and meals.
Website
Cost
Free to watch, but donations are appreciated.
7. Ramnagar Fort
Description
Ramnagar Fort, located on the eastern bank of the Ganges River, is a beautiful fort with Mughal architecture. It also houses a museum displaying old weapons, vintage cars, and artifacts belonging to the royal family of Varanasi.
Historical Significance of Ramnagar Fort
Built in the 18th century by the King of Varanasi, the fort is still the residence of the current Maharaja. It has been a cultural and royal hub in Varanasi.
Location of Ramnagar Fort
Located 14 km from the center of Varanasi, on the other side of the river.
Traveling
Accessible by boat or car from Varanasi city.
Nearby Eateries
- Sri Annapurna Restaurant: Known for traditional Indian meals.
- Zaika Family Restaurant: A good option for multi-cuisine dishes.
Cost
₹20 for entry.
8. Durga Temple
Description
Durga Temple, also known as the Monkey Temple, is dedicated to Goddess Durga. The temple, painted in bright red, is a prominent Hindu pilgrimage site. The temple is surrounded by a pond known as Durga Kund.
Historical Significance of Durga Temple
Built in the 18th century by a Bengali Maharani, the temple is an important place for worship, especially during the festival of Navratri.
Location of Durga Temple
Situated near Durga Kund, about 4 km from Varanasi city center.
Traveling
Accessible by taxi or rickshaw.
Nearby Eateries
- Ayyar’s Cafe: Known for South Indian food.
- Flavours Cafe: Offers a variety of snacks and light meals.
Website
Cost
Free to visit.
9. Banaras Hindu University (BHU)
Description
Banaras Hindu University (BHU) is one of the largest residential universities in Asia. The lush green campus is home to several cultural and educational buildings, including the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum and the Vishwanath Temple.
Historical Significance of Banaras Hindu University
Established in 1916 by Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya, BHU is known for its contributions to education and Indian culture.
Location of Banaras Hindu University
Located about 7 km from Varanasi city center.
Traveling
Accessible by car or taxi.
Nearby Eateries
- Vishnu Tea Emporium: A popular spot for tea and snacks.
- BHU Canteen: Offers affordable meals within the campus.
Cost
Free to visit.
10. Bharat Mata Temple
Description
The Bharat Mata Temple is a unique temple dedicated to Mother India. Unlike traditional temples with deities, this temple has a large marble map of India carved on the floor, representing the nation’s unity and cultural diversity.
Historical Significance of Bharat Mata Temple
Built in 1936 by Babu Shiv Prasad Gupta, the temple is a symbol of patriotism and pride for the country.
Location of Bharat Mata Temple
Situated near Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapith, about 3 km from Varanasi Railway Station.
Traveling
Accessible by taxi or rickshaw.
Nearby Eateries
- Madhur Milan Cafe: Known for vegetarian meals.
- Chotiwala Restaurant: Famous for Indian cuisine.
Website
Cost
Free to visit.
