Set along the soil of north India, Varanasi is supremely beautiful. The city’s history can be traced back to 1100 B.C. With India being referred to as “spiritual capital,” the city must see an unending plethora of Hindu pilgrims. The city of Varanasi has much to see that will keep you spellbound and make you want to stay forever there. From prayers at the temple to taking a dip in the holy Ganges river, the spiritual city has much to experience.
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is a famous Hindu temple of high sanctity in Varanasi, which is said to be dedicated in all sincerity towards Lord Shiva. It is elegantly situated on the western bank of river Ganges. There are twelve Jyotirlingas (Holiest Shiva Temples) all over the world, and the pious Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one among them. The city was earlier known as Kashi; hence, the temple name was inherited from the city name. Many pilgrims throng to venerate Lord Shiva through the year and the place is often seen to be densely crowded. If Varanasi is supposably the land of temples, Kashi Vishwanath should have a margin as the most eminently visited temple in all of Varanasi.
Must Visit: Full Day Varanasi Sightseeing Tour
Dashashwamedh Ghat is one of the main Ghats located in the beautiful city of Varanasi, lying in the Ganges. As for directions, it is reasonably close to the famous Vishwanath Temple. A little background on this spectacular Ghat: it is said that Lord Brahma created it to welcome Lord Shiva into the city. Some say that Lord Brahma sacrificed ten horses here when the Dasa-Ashwamedha Yajna was performed. These ghats are also venues for the ancient Varanasi festivals that you should definitely witness. This Ghat is historically said to be built by Peshwa Balaji Baji Rao in 1748 and later rebuilt by the Queen of Indore, Ahilyabahi Holkar in 1774. Visitors can also witness the observatory built by Maharaja Jai Singh of Jaipur in 1737, lying in the Ganges.
Paying homage to the Ramnagar Fort towards the east bank of the Ganges, it presents majestic views over Tulsi Ghat which is set up on the opposite shore. The fort is mainly of sandstone construction in the genuine Mughal style and is said to have been built in 1750 by the famous King of Kashi, Raj Balwant Singh. Visitors could marvel at the Veda Vyasa Temple and the King’s residential complex. An adorable museum showcases a bit of our long history; besides that, the sacred Dakshin Mukhi Temple of Hanuman is also located in the premises.
The Dhamek Stupa is a very big and spectacular Stupa located in Sarnath, a distance of about 13 km from the astounding city of Varanasi. Stupas originally were pre-Buddhist tumuli reputed to be burial places of ascetics in the erect seated posture known as chaitya. This site is very holy and sacred to the Buddhists for after Par Nirvana (Liberation) of Buddha, his remains were reputedly cremated and the ashes were divided among eight stupas.
Dated back to 500 CE, the Dhamek Stupa overlaid an earlier monument believed to have been erected by the great and renowned Mauryan King Ashoka. Visitors are welcome to witness and relive history, and to see our past with their own eyes. Touring Sarnath is one of the best things to do in Varanasi, India.
Ghats is undoubtedly the most enchanting and fascinating view of this sacred city along the River Ganga in Varanasi. Tourists strolling along the Ghats during sunset times will have some breathtaking and unforgettable experiences.
Exploring the Ghats is something you must do in Varanasi; nothing matches the sunsets here. With multiple Ghats to visit, you can always pick out your spot to view the mesmerising sunsets; as these Ghats get pretty crowded, it would be advisable to reach early to enjoy what may remain in your heart forever. Stay at one of the cheaper and better-facilitated Hotels In Varanasi to get the best out of your days in the city.
Taking a bath in the Ganges is widely believed to wash away our sins in Hinduism, since it is a very sacred river. For centuries, the Ganges has cast its very own spiritual charm over Varanasi. Worshipers are seen chanting prayers, hoping for blessings from the River Goddess. Beyond salvation and purification, the Ganges stands as a shrine throughout the year. One will find people descending here from all corners of the country, let alone the rest of the world, seeking to receive moksha and liberation from the cycle of birth and death, simply by getting a bath in the sacred River. In Varanasi, there are 84 plus Ghats that lead into these waters, where one can witness and experience the pilgrims bathing right from dawn.
Suggested Trip: Golden Triangle Tour with Varanasi
In the international arena, the weavers of Varanasi have earned the glory and limelight for creating magnificent pieces of artistry. Here, in the village of Sarai Mohana, nothing can outdo the silk weaving arts, and the villagers have weaving skills inherited from their ancestors. Well, who isn’t aware of the famous Varanasi sarees-opined to be the best sarees of India? It is here, indeed, that the weaving happens right in the midst of Varanasi.
These sarees get their reputation for gold and silver brocade (zari) work, lavish embroideries, and superb quality silk. Almost every Indian bride dreams to wear one of these sarees on her big day. The said village is open to visitors, looking to uncover the magic of weavers and unlock secrets behind the making of this masterpiece, with the actual making process ranging anywhere from 15 days to 6 months.
Prepare yourself for a visual treat at the Buddha temple, featuring beautiful paintings telling the story of the important events in Buddha’s life. These fresco paintings were done by a Japanese painter, so there is some semblance in the features of Buddha with those of a Japanese.
What is so special about this temple is that apart from seeking favor from Buddha, you can also learn more about his life from the paintings here. Do not forget to deposit your shoes outside before entering the temple.
The moment you will witness boat ride Varanasi is a picture in an entire new frame. As the ghats pass by and the guide explains what each ghat means and the history of Varanasi, it will be like watching a live movie and experiencing a completely surreal moment in the air.
At every ghats approach you will find boatmen asking you for a boat cruise. You may book with them; however, we would suggest you pre-book through your hotel with a guide attached. Punctuate your boat ride with a sunrise sighting-the calmest time for Varanasi.
One of the most spiritual thing to witness in Varanasi is the nightly aarti on the Ghats. The aarti must have been conducted for you by the magic of Rishikesh or Haridwar, so you are already aware of how cathartic it will be for them here. The ghats fill during aarti. So, be sure to reach on time. Do not forget to grab an aarti thali to get the full experience. The moment the robust sound of aarti resonates into your ears is true bliss. Attending an aarti on the ghats of the Ganga River is certainly one of the classic things to do in Banaras.
The fort once bore witness to a fierce battle between the Maharaja Chait (or Chet) Singh on one side and the forces of the British East India Company’s representative on the other side in the year 1781. Now, it lies in peace, far away from human habitation and slowly crumbling.
However, the rustic feel makes it a worthy stop. Getting inside without anybody stopping you is nearly impossible, but being so quiet you will get lucky at times. There just to some amazing views of the river and a little peace away from the madness of the crowd.
Being by the ghats, Varanasi is basically a food paradise so hungry travelers. There is an infinite variety of local street food the city has to offer. From crispy kachoris to hot aloo puris, have a ball feasting on local dishes served with love. The best part about the food is its cheapness. A plate of puri-aloo will set you back by a mere ten rupees or so. So nobody goes hungry in Varanasi; that is for sure. While in Varanasi, make it a point to hit every street food corner and hideaway restaurant.
One of the enjoyable things to do in Varanasi is shopping. What is the place famous for buying in Varanasi? Well, there can be several things to buy in Varanasi: Banarsee silk sarees, chikankari, and religious paraphernalia. Those visiting this sacred city take home an empty bottle to fill with holy water from the river Ganges. You may also buy Rudraksh mala, shiva lingas, or glass beads, in malls, although the bazaars are the real shopping places of Varanasi.
Famous items: Benarasi silk saree, chikankari, Ganges water
Best Time To Visit: October to March
By Road: Varanasi has excellent road connectivity with cities like Delhi, Allahabad, Lucknow, Patna, Gorakhpur, and Ranchi, if one should prefer traveling by their own vehicle or hire a private cab. A number of state-run as well as private buses ply to Varanasi from these cities.
By Train: Varanasi city has a railway station named Varanasi Junction, one of the busiest railway stations in the State of Uttar Pradesh. By the rail, numerous trains from Mumbai, Patna, Lucknow, Surat, and Hyderabad and other important cities exist and provide connectivity to Varanasi.
By Air: The Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport at Varanasi is well connected with most important cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Goa, and Bangalore. From the airport, one can easily hire a cab to the main city, which is just 30 minutes away.
Is it safe to travel to Varanasi alone?
Varanasi is generally safe for a lone traveller to explore, but just like any other tourist destination, it is wise to stay alert, steer clear of lonely places after dusk, and keep your belongings in view.
How can I spend the night in Varanasi?
One can do various things in Varanasi at night, such as indulge in the famous Ganga Aarti while enjoying the splendid view of the Ganges, go for a boat ride on the Ganges, explore the old town of Varanasi, and visit the sacred Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
What are the must-see sites in Varanasi?
Given its splendid vistas and undeniably engaging, rich history, the major tourist attractions for Varanasi are Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Ramnagar Fort, Dhamek Stupa, Dasaswamedh Ghat, and Assi Ghat.
What makes Varanasi special?
Varanasi is among the few landscapes in India that existed purely due to the worship of Lord Shiva and Parvati, with various revered landmarks such as Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Assi Ghat, Dashashwamedha Ghat, Sankat Mochan Mandir, etc.
What would be the best outdoor activity in Varanasi?
There are many activities to do apart from all the sightseeing, pinpointing the extraordinary temples. Some of them are Cultural walk, Varanasi walking tour, Attend evening artists at ghats, Musical tour, and visit to an archaeological museum.
What is famous in Varanasi?
Known to be one of the oldest living cities in the world, Varanasi is also considered the holiest city for Hindus. The world-famous tourist spots include Varanasi Ghats, spirituality, and Banarasi sarees.
When is the best time to go to Varanasi?
The city being spiritual is generally crowded year-round with tourists; however, the best time to visit Varanasi is during the winters from November to February.
How should I spend my two days in Varanasi?
In the northern state of Uttar Pradesh, Varanasi is known as the city of temples, iconic sightseeing, and ghats. For things to do in varanasi, there are: Varanasi Walking Tour, attend evening arti, visit temples, musical tours, museums, etc.
Where does the city of Varanasi lie?
It lies at an altitude of 80.71 meters, right in the heart of the Ganges valley of North India, Uttar Pradesh.
Is Varanasi a child-friendly place to visit?
Yes, Varanasi can be visited with kids. They will be able to learn about many aspects of our glorious Indian culture and history. There are several places in and around the city renowned for their splendor and significance, and the kids have no problem touring the city with their parents.
What is Varanasi famous for in food?
Varanasi is known for its sweet-salty fried food combos. Have Kachori Sabzi, Baati Chokha, Laaiya Channa, Tamatar Chaat, Launglata, Choora Matar, and Malaiyyo.
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