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What is Varanasi?
Varanasi also known as Kashi is not only a city but also a feeling. The corner of every place here vibrates with energy, devotion, and centuries-old traditions. People believe the sins get cleansed by visiting the place. The place invites peace-seekers and history-lovers. Now, let us go into some of the best places to visit in Varanasi to enjoy this amazing city.
Famous Ghats in Varanasi: Soul of the City
The famous ghats in Varanasi are something special in the form of a view. With almost 88 ghats lined up one behind another on the Ganges, show the importance of each one.
1) Dashashwamedh Ghat: It is often called the noisiest and most popular ghat. Dashashwamedh Ghat is the venue of Ganga Aarti. It is quite mystical to see the evening Aarti with its rhythmic chants, fire lamps, and fragrant incense.
2) Manikarnika Ghat: The ancient ghat holds liberation. Many do visit the place to see an intensified cycle of life and death. It is there to hold deep spiritual learning.
3) Assi Ghat: Assi Ghat is the southernmost end of the region. It is relatively quieter than the others. Sunrise yoga sessions, music, and meditation await there.
Visiting the ghats is both adventurous and peaceful and offers insight into local life. One goes through an unforgettable experience with the sunrise on the Ganges River from these ghats.
Must-See Temples in Varanasi
Varanasi is deep in history and faith. There are more than a thousand temples here. Every one of them holds a story to inspire your spirituality.
1) Kashi Vishwanath Temple: This is one of the most iconic temples of Varanasi. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Kashi Vishwanath Temple is considered to be one among the 12 Jyotirlingas in India.
2) Durga Temple: This temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga. It is constructed in red colour. People believe it safeguards the city. Visiting here provides one with spiritual strength.
3) Sankat Mochan Temple: Lord Hanuman Temple is always there to remove the obstacles of life. Sometimes, it overflows with visitors singing devotional songs.
These are some of the spiritual places in Varanasi. These temples give you a feeling about how great a city Varanasi is in terms of deep spiritual values. Every visit fills you up with peace and devotion.
Historical Places in Varanasi: A Walk with Time
Varanasi’s old constructions and historical places still give a glimpse of its history. These historical places in Varanasi enrich spiritual charm in every corner.
1) Ramnagar Fort: It was built on the eastern side of Ganges in the 18th century. Ramnagar Fort is an old residence of the Maharaja of Varanasi which is now a museum full of royal items there.
2) Sarnath: Sarnath is that place where the very first sermon by Lord Buddha was delivered. This holy spot attracts Buddhists and history enthusiasts to visit it. The ancient stupas and museums of Sarnath have placed it among the top Varanasi tourist places.
Spiritual Places in Varanasi:
Varanasi is the heaven for spiritual seekers. Besides its numerous temples, the city has other hot spots of spirituality.
1) Annapurna Temple: This is a goddess focused temple devoted to Goddess Annapurna. It epitomises prosperity and plenty. People come here for a happy and satisfied life.
2) Tulsi Manas Mandir: This temple is known for the holy book Ramcharitmanas, written by Goswami Tulsidas.
3) Bharat Mata Temple: This temple is unique and dedicated to Mother India. A marble-carved map of India is found here. It is a place to rejoice at the unity and diversity of this country.
These spiritual places in Varanasi provide a glimpse into the devotion and culture. They add pages to your trip and connect you to something unique.
Cultural Sites in Varanasi:
Varanasi has both a cultural and a spiritual side. One can listen to music, dance and see art everywhere. It feels like celebrating at every turn.
1) Banaras Hindu University (BHU): BHU is one of the oldest universities in India. The campus has a museum, botanical garden, and a huge library. It is a cultural hub of debates and performances.
2) Ravidas Park: This park is a tribute to the great poet and philosopher, Sant Ravidas. This is an eye-catching place for people to enjoy nature and the lessons of this respected saint.
3) Jantar Mantar: Built by Maharaja Jai Singh II, it shows ancient India’s history of astronomy. Visiting it takes you back to the times when science and faith go hand in hand.
Cultural sites in Varanasi give the city a specific flavour that inspire you to plan a trip to Varanasi.
Things to Do in Varanasi: Adventure and Fun
There are a number of things to do in Varanasi. These include adventurous, peaceful, and exciting activities there.
1) Boat Ride on the Ganges: Paddle at dawn when the ghats reveal the city in beautiful scenery on water. The peaceful water with a golden sky provides a lovely reflection.
2) Watch Ganga Aarti: The evening Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat is really special. Participated in the ceremony with chants and lights which gives you a glimpse of India’s spiritual heritage.
3) Taste Local Cuisine: The cuisine is as vibrant as its culture. Do not miss some of the iconic food items like Kachori, Jalebi, and Banarasi paan.
4) Hot Air Balloon Ride: You can see your city from a bird’s eye view. Varanasi allows you to watch your city from hot air balloon rides over ghats and The Ganges river in certain seasons.
5) Photography Walk: Varanasi is a fantasy for photographers-vibrant ghats, ancient structures, and narrow lanes. Many local tours organise photography walks.
All these are the top attractions in Varanasi that will make your visit exciting and memorable. For an amazing experience, you can contact the best travel agency for temple tours like Vedic Travel. This is the best travel agency for temple tours which offers seamless and spiritually enriching experiences.
Varanasi Markets: A Shopper’s Paradise
The markets in Varanasi are full of colour, craft, and culture. This provides the perfect opportunity to buy unique souvenirs as well as interact with the friendly locals.
1) Vishwanath Gali: This lane is never quiet. With sellers peddling religious items and souvenirs, you can literally find brass idols, rudraksha malas, and paintings of Lord Shiva.
2) Thatheri Bazar: Known for selling all things in brass and metalwork. Thatheri Bazar reveals Varanasi’s artistic heritage. You can find decorative yet-useful, handcrafted items here.
3) Lahurabir: If you are looking to grab some Banarasi silk sarees, then head towards Lahurabir. Banarasi silk sarees are famous everywhere in the world.
These are some of the most famous markets in Varanasi for shopping. The markets give the opportunity to take home a piece of Varanasi as a beautiful reminder of your journey.
Budget-Friendly Tips to Visit in Varanasi
Varanasi can provide experiences of luxury at no cost. Here is how you can find this wonderful city on a shoestring budget:
1) Stay at Budget Ashrams and Guesthouses: There are many guesthouses and ashrams in Varanasi that are pretty affordable and offer really comfortable stays.
2) Go for Public Boats Rather than Private: The ride on the Ganges in private boats can be very costly. Try going for public boats or shared ones.
3) Eat from Local Eateries: Street food in Varanasi is wonderful in taste and inexpensive. You can have tasty food at local eateries like Kachori and Jalebi at a cheap price.
Now, you can have a rich experience in Varanasi without overspending.
Conclusion of Varanasi Travel Guide
Varanasi is the place that holds something meaningful for any traveller. This Varanasi travel guide offers visitors a complete package from the beauty of its temples to the festivals and food.
Varanasi welcomes you with open arms, no matter what brings you to this little part of heaven-on-earth; peace, joy, or adventure. Everything spent here will have a heartful memory about life’s beauty.
Let Varanasi surprise you and inspire you with stories worth sharing. This sacred city is not just a place, it becomes a part of you forever.
