Varanasi is the spiritual capital of India, the city's most iconic features are the 80 Ghats and temples along the Ganges, where daily life unfolds against the backdrop of rituals, ceremonies, and spiritual practices making the city top pilgrimage city attracting tourists.
Varanasi is also known as Kashi or Banaras which is the spiritual capital of India. The city of Varanasi lies along the western banks of the Ganges. There are Temples at almost every turn engulf Varanasi but the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is the most visited and the oldest of the all.
Varanasi is considered an auspicious place to die, as it is believed to grant moksha from the cycle of life and death. The city's most iconic features are the 80 ghats along the Ganges, where daily life unfolds against the backdrop of rituals, ceremonies, and spiritual practices. Dashashwamedh Ghat, the main ghat, witnesses the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti, a captivating ritual where priests offer prayers to the river with the rhythmic movement of lamps, fire, and chants. The boat ride along the Ganges during sunrise or sunset provides a serene and immersive experience, allowing visitors to witness the city's timeless beauty.
The narrow galis of Varanasi, house numerous shrines, shops, and eateries, creating a maze. The city is a kaleidoscope of colors and sounds during festivals, especially during Diwali and Holi. The vibrant ghats, adorned with thousands of diyas (lamps) during Diwali, create a mesmerizing spectacle. Varanasi's local markets, such as the Vishwanath Gali and Thatheri Bazaar, offer an array of handcrafted silk, brassware, and traditional Banarasi sarees.
Ganga Aarti, Varanasi
Ganga Aarti is an significant ritual held on a grand scale every morning and evening on the banks of the holy Ganges. The priests perform the Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat. This magnificent ritual involves huge brass lamps lit with oil and the priests chant the holy mantras that reverberate in the entire location.
In the evening, the Ghats of Varanasi come alive with the vibrant Ganga Aarti. Priests, clad in traditional attire, choreograph the ritual with synchronized movements, accompanied by the rhythmic ringing of bells and chanting of hymns. The centerpiece is the illuminated brass lamps, or diyas, gracefully swayed in circular motions, creating intricate patterns against the backdrop of the darkening sky. The aroma of incense and the resonance of sacred mantras fill the air, providing a truly immersive experience.
Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Varanasi
Located on the western bank of holy river Ganga in Varanasi, Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas or temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. The city of Varanasi is the cultural capital of India. The temple has 800 kg of gold plating on its tower.
There is also a well present within the temple complex called Jnana Vapi or wisdom well where only Hindus are allowed to enter. The importance of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple also stems from the fact that it finds mentions in several holy scriptures of the Hindus. On the outside, the temple is adorned with intricate carvings that impart a divine quality to the facade. The temple is the most visited site in Varasnasi.
Dashashwamedh Ghat, Varanasi
Dashashwamedh Ghat, present on the Ganges River in Varanasi, holds immense religious significance and cultural vibrancy. Renowned for its daily Ganga Aarti, it offers a mesmerizing experience with spiritual rituals, pilgrim activities, and a lively atmosphere. Every evening, Dashashwamedh Ghat hosts the renowned Ganga Aarti, a spiritual ceremony featuring priests conducting rituals with brass lamps and hymns.
Dashashwamedh Ghat serves as a pilgrimage site where devotees take ritualistic dips in the Ganges to cleanse themselves. The ghat's steps are adorned with numerous shrines, creating a sacred atmosphere. The ghat's proximity to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple adds to its religious aura, creating a significant spiritual hub in Varanasi. This captivating spectacle attracts large crowds, creating a divine ambiance.
Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, Varanasi
The Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple is located by the River Assi and was built in the 1900s by the freedom fighter Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya. The temple is dedicated to Lord Rama and Hanuman. Every person visiting Varanasi visits this temple and pay their respects to Hanuman. The laddoo (prasad) offered at this temple is essentially famous among the locals.
Ramnagar Fort, Varanasi
Present on the Eastern banks of River Ganga, opposite to Tulsi Ghat, Ramnagar Fort is a stunning historical monument in Varanasi. The fort encompasses several noteworthy structures, including the Durbar Hall, Saraswati Bhawan, and a museum housing vintage cars, royal costumes, and antique artifacts. The Durbar Hall, adorned with vivid frescoes and a marble balcony, once hosted royal assemblies. The museum offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Banaras royalty, displaying artifacts from different genrations.
Tulsi Manasa Temple, Varanasi
This temple is dedicated to Lord Rama and is named after the saint poet Tulsi Das. It displays the Shikhara style of architecture and exhibits various inscriptions from the Ram Charit Manas on the walls of the temple. The various episodes of Ramayana have also been depicted on the upper storey of the temple in the form of carvings. The temple is a must visit during the months of Saawan (July - August) when it opens up a special display of puppets, related to Ramayana, and is a fun experience for everyone.
New Vishwanath Temple, Varanasi
The New Vishwanath Temple is located in the heart of the cultural capital of India Varanasi, but its divinity is multiplied by the holy river Ganga that flows by its side. Banaras Hindu University is hence home to one of the biggest tourist attractions in the city of Varanasi, the grand New Vishwanath Temple.
The very famous Jyotirlinga of Shiva, Vishweshwara, is believed to have immense and unending power. This beautiful temple consists of nine other temples within one and invites people of every faith to bask in its grandeur, using symbolism to express the ideas and beliefs of Hinduism.
Durga Temple, Varanasi
The Durga Temple in the vibrant city of Varanasi, is a unique Hindu shrine which is dedicated to Goddess Durga. Renowned for its vivid red color and intricate architecture, the temple exudes a spiritual aura. Devotees visit to seek blessings, especially during the festive fervor of Navaratri, when the temple comes alive with religious celebrations.
Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi
The Banaras Hindu University is a 5.3 square kilometer campus in the city. It has about 30,000 students residing in the campus and is the largest residential university in the continent. The University has a long list of notable alumni and faculty. The Indo-Gothic architecture and the sprawling lawns add to the beauty of the place.
Best time to visit Varanasi
The Perfect time to visit Varanasi is Winter (November - February) since the temperature is low. Summers in Varanasi experience high and dry temperatures. Monsoons are a pleasant change, with moderate to heavy rainfall, while the winters are the best time to visit Varanasi, owing to the marvelous weather conditions that elevate its beauty to a large extent.
Conclusion
Varanasi has some of the most beautiful temples with peaceful Ghats which makes the Varanasi a must visit destination for the tourists. From visiting the Kashi Vishwanath Temple to the magnificent Ganga Aarti, there is something for every traveler in Varanasi. So, pack your bags, plan your tour, and move on a religious journey to Varanasi.
