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Top 15 famous places to visit in Varanasi
Varanasi, also known as Banaras, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. It is located on the banks of the Ganges River in Uttar Pradesh, India. Varanasi is considered to be one of the holiest cities in Hinduism, and it is a major pilgrimage destination for Hindus from all over the world.
Varanasi is a city that has been a center of pilgrimage and learning for centuries. It is a place of great beauty, spiritual significance, and cultural richness. If you are ever lucky enough to visit Varanasi, I encourage you to experience all that it has to offer.
Varanasi is a city that will stay with you long after you have left. It is a place that will challenge your understanding of the world, and it is a place that will leave you changed.
There are many famous places to visit in Varanasi, but here are the top 15:
1. Kashi Vishwanath Temple:
This is the most famous temple in Varanasi, and it is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, or "pillars of light," in Hinduism.
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most important Hindu temples in the world, and it is a must-visit for any traveler to Varanasi. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and it is said to be one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, or the holiest of Shiva temples.
There are many things to see and do at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. You can visit the main temple complex, which houses the lingam of Lord Shiva. You can also visit the surrounding area, which is home to many other temples, ghats, and historical sites.
Here are some of the things you can visit at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple:
- The main temple complex: This is the heart of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. The complex is home to the lingam of Lord Shiva, as well as a number of other shrines and temples.
- The Ghats: The Ghats are a series of steps that lead down to the Ganges River. The Ghats are a popular spot for bathing, as well as for religious ceremonies.
- The Vishwanath Gali: This is the street that leads to the main temple complex. The Vishwanath Gali is a bustling street, and it is a great place to experience the local culture.
- The Kashi Vishwanath Dham: This is the newly renovated complex that surrounds the main temple. The Kashi Vishwanath Dham is home to a number of new facilities, including a museum, a food court, and a viewing gallery.
If you are planning a visit to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, be sure to dress respectfully. Women should wear long skirts or pants, and men should wear long pants and shirts. You should also remove your shoes before entering the temple complex.
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is a truly special place, and it is a must-visit for any traveler to Varanasi. The temple is a place of great spiritual significance, and it is a place where you can experience the rich culture and history of India.
2. Dashashwamedh Ghat:
This is the largest and most important ghat in Varanasi, and it is where the famous Ganga Aarti ceremony is held every evening. The ghat is also a popular spot for pilgrims to bathe in the Ganges River.
Dashashwamedh Ghat is one of the most important ghats in Varanasi, and it is a must-visit for any visitor to the city. The ghat is located on the banks of the Ganges River, and it is a popular spot for bathing, religious ceremonies, and sightseeing.
Here are some of the things you can visit at Dashashwamedh Ghat:
- The Ganga Aarti: This is a beautiful and elaborate ceremony that takes place every evening at dusk. The aarti is a fire ritual that is performed in honor of the Ganges River. It is a truly mesmerizing sight, and it is a great way to experience the spiritual energy of Varanasi.
- The Dashashwamedh Yajna: This is a Vedic fire sacrifice that is performed at Dashashwamedh Ghat every year during the month of Shravan. The yajna is a centuries-old tradition, and it is a powerful symbol of the religious significance of the ghat.
- The Vishwanath Temple: This is a Hindu temple that is located just a short walk from Dashashwamedh Ghat. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and it is one of the most important temples in Varanasi.
- The Ghats: Dashashwamedh Ghat is just one of the many ghats that line the banks of the Ganges River in Varanasi. The ghats are a popular spot for bathing, as well as for religious ceremonies.
- The Bazaars: There are a number of bazaars located near Dashashwamedh Ghat. These bazaars are a great place to shop for souvenirs, as well as for traditional Indian clothing and jewelry.
If you are planning a visit to Dashashwamedh Ghat, be sure to dress respectfully. Women should wear long skirts or pants, and men should wear long pants and shirts. You should also remove your shoes before entering the ghat.
Dashashwamedh Ghat is a truly special place, and it is a must-visit for any traveler to Varanasi. The ghat is a place of great spiritual significance, and it is a place where you can experience the rich culture and history of India.
3. Manikarnika Ghat:
This is the ghat where most Hindu cremations take place. The ghat is also known as the "ghat of death," but it is also a place of great spiritual significance for Hindus.
Here are some things you can visit in Manikarnika Ghat in Varanasi:
• The Burning Ghat: This is the most famous ghat in Varanasi, and it is where most of the cremations take place. It is a place of great spiritual significance, and it is a reminder of the cycle of life and death.
• The Manikarnika Kund: This is a sacred well that is located at the top of the ghat. It is said that the earring of Parvati, the wife of Shiva, fell into this well, and that is how the ghat got its name.
• The Kashi Vishwanath Temple: This is a Hindu temple that is located just a short walk from Manikarnika Ghat. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and it is one of the most important temples in Varanasi.
• The Ghats: Manikarnika Ghat is just one of the many ghats that line the banks of the Ganges River in Varanasi. The ghats are a popular spot for bathing, as well as for religious ceremonies.
• The Bazaars: There are a number of bazaars located near Manikarnika Ghat. These bazaars are a great place to shop for souvenirs, as well as for traditional Indian clothing and jewelry.
If you are planning a visit to Manikarnika Ghat, be sure to dress respectfully. Women should wear long skirts or pants, and men should wear long pants and shirts. You should also remove your shoes before entering the ghat.
Manikarnika Ghat is a truly special place, and it is a must-visit for any traveler to Varanasi. The ghat is a place of great spiritual significance, and it is a place where you can experience the rich culture and history of India.
Please note that Manikarnika Ghat is a cremation ground, and it can be a very emotional place for some people. If you are sensitive to death, you may want to avoid visiting this ghat.
4. Assi Ghat:
This is the southernmost ghat in Varanasi, and it is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. The ghat is a great place to relax, take in the views of the Ganges River, and people-watch.
Here are some things you can visit in Assi Ghat in Varanasi:
•The Shivalinga: This is a giant shivalingam that is located at the top of the ghat. It is a popular spot for pilgrims to worship, and it is believed to have been installed by the Hindu saint, Adi Shankaracharya.
•The Assi Sangam: This is the confluence of the Ganges River and the Assi River. It is a sacred spot, and it is believed that bathing in the waters of the Assi River can cleanse one of their sins.
•The Ghats: Assi Ghat is one of the southernmost ghats in Varanasi, and it is a popular spot for bathing, as well as for religious ceremonies.
•The Bazaars: There are a number of bazaars located near Assi Ghat. These bazaars are a great place to shop for souvenirs, as well as for traditional Indian clothing and jewelry.
•The Sunset: The sunsets at Assi Ghat are said to be some of the most beautiful in Varanasi. It is a great place to sit and watch the sun go down over the Ganges River.
If you are planning a visit to Assi Ghat, be sure to dress respectfully. Women should wear long skirts or pants, and men should wear long pants and shirts. You should also remove your shoes before entering the ghat.
Assi Ghat is a truly special place, and it is a must-visit for any traveler to Varanasi. The ghat is a place of great spiritual significance, and it is a place where you can experience the rich culture and history of India.
5. Sarnath:
This is a Buddhist pilgrimage site located just 10 kilometers from Varanasi. Sarnath is where the Buddha gave his first sermon, and it is home to many important Buddhist ruins, including the Dhamek Stupa and the Mulagandhakuti Vihara.
Here are some things you can visit in Sarnath in Varanasi:
• Dhamek Stupa: This is the most iconic monument in Sarnath, and it is said to be the place where Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. The stupa is a massive structure, and it is a popular spot for pilgrims and tourists alike.
• Mulagandha Kuti Vihar: This is a Buddhist monastery that is located near the Dhamek Stupa. The monastery is home to a number of sacred relics, including a Bodhi tree sapling that is said to have been planted by Buddha himself.
• Ashoka Pillar: This is a 150-foot-tall pillar that was erected by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE. The pillar is inscribed with Buddhist scriptures, and it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Sarnath Museum: This museum houses a collection of Buddhist sculptures and artifacts that were excavated from Sarnath. The museum is a great place to learn about the history of Buddhism in India.
• Deer Park: This is the park where Buddha gave his first sermon. The park is a peaceful and tranquil place, and it is a great place to meditate or simply enjoy the scenery.
If you are planning a visit to Sarnath, be sure to dress respectfully. Women should wear long skirts or pants, and men should wear long pants and shirts. You should also remove your shoes before entering any religious sites.
Sarnath is a truly special place, and it is a must-visit for any traveler interested in Buddhism or Indian history. The town is a place of great spiritual significance, and it is a place where you can experience the rich culture and history of India.
6. Ramnagar Fort:
This is a 17th-century fort located on the banks of the Ganges River. The fort was built by the Maharaja of Banaras, and it is now a popular tourist destination.
Here are some things you can visit in Ramnagar Fort in Varanasi:
• The Ramnagar Fort Museum: This museum houses a collection of royal artifacts, including weapons, furniture, and paintings. The museum is a great place to learn about the history of the fort and the ruling family.
• The Ram Lila: This is a traditional folk performance that is held every year in the fort grounds. The Ram Lila is a dramatization of the Ramayana, and it is a popular event for both locals and tourists.
• The Fort Grounds: The fort grounds are a beautiful and peaceful place to walk around. There are gardens, fountains, and a number of temples located within the grounds.
• The Viewpoint: The fort offers stunning views of the Ganges River and the city of Varanasi. It is a great place to watch the sunset or simply enjoy the scenery.
• The Hanuman Temple: This is a temple dedicated to Hanuman, the monkey god. The temple is located within the fort grounds, and it is a popular spot for pilgrims and tourists alike.
If you are planning a visit to Ramnagar Fort, be sure to dress respectfully. Women should wear long skirts or pants, and men should wear long pants and shirts. You should also remove your shoes before entering the temple.
Ramnagar Fort is a truly special place, and it is a must-visit for any traveler to Varanasi. The fort is a place of great historical and cultural significance, and it is a place where you can experience the rich culture and history of India.
7. Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple:
This is a Hindu temple dedicated to Hanuman, the monkey god. The temple is located in the heart of Varanasi, and it is a popular spot for pilgrims and tourists alike.
Here are some things you can visit in Sankat Mochan Hanuman temple in Varanasi:
• The Temple Complex: The temple complex is home to a number of shrines and temples, including the main shrine dedicated to Hanuman. The complex is also home to a number of other temples dedicated to other Hindu deities, such as Durga and Ganesha.
• The Hanuman Statue: The main shrine in the temple complex is dedicated to Hanuman. The statue of Hanuman is said to be 108 feet tall, and it is one of the tallest statues of Hanuman in the world.
• The Well: There is a well located in the temple complex that is said to have healing powers. The well is said to have been created by Hanuman himself, and it is a popular spot for pilgrims and tourists alike.
• The Prayer Hall: The temple complex also has a prayer hall where pilgrims can offer prayers to Hanuman. The prayer hall is a beautiful and peaceful space, and it is a great place to meditate or simply reflect.
• The Bazaar: There is a bazaar located near the temple complex where you can buy souvenirs, as well as traditional Indian clothing and jewelry.
If you are planning a visit to Sankat Mochan Hanuman temple, be sure to dress respectfully. Women should wear long skirts or pants, and men should wear long pants and shirts. You should also remove your shoes before entering the temple.
Sankat Mochan Hanuman temple is a truly special place, and it is a must-visit for any traveler to Varanasi. The temple is a place of great spiritual significance, and it is a place where you can experience the rich culture and history of India.
8. Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum:
This is a museum located on the campus of Banaras Hindu University. The museum houses a collection of over 200,000 artifacts, including sculptures, paintings, and textiles.
Here are some things you can visit in Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum in Varanasi:
• The Sculpture Gallery: This gallery houses a collection of sculptures from all over India, dating from the 2nd century BCE to the 18th century CE. The gallery is home to some of the finest examples of Indian sculpture, including a number of rare and priceless pieces.
• The Painting Gallery: This gallery houses a collection of paintings from all over India, dating from the 11th century CE to the 20th century CE. The gallery is home to some of the finest examples of Indian painting, including a number of rare and priceless pieces.
• The Textile Gallery: This gallery houses a collection of textiles from all over India, dating from the 1st century BCE to the 20th century CE. The gallery is home to some of the finest examples of Indian textiles, including a number of rare and priceless pieces.
• The Numismatic Gallery: This gallery houses a collection of coins and currency from all over India, dating from the 6th century BCE to the 20th century CE. The gallery is home to some of the finest examples of Indian coins and currency, including a number of rare and priceless pieces.
• The Library: The museum also has a library that houses a collection of books, manuscripts, and other documents related to Indian art, history, and culture. The library is a valuable resource for scholars and researchers.
If you are planning a visit to Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, be sure to dress respectfully. Women should wear long skirts or pants, and men should wear long pants and shirts. You should also remove your shoes before entering the museum.
Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum is a truly special place, and it is a must-visit for any traveler to Varanasi. The museum is a place of great cultural significance, and it is a place where you can experience the rich history and art of India.
9. Gyan Vapi Mosque:
This is a 17th-century mosque located near the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. The mosque is a controversial site, as some Hindus believe that it was built on the ruins of a Hindu temple.
Here are some things you can visit in Gyan Vapi Mosque in Varanasi:
• The Gyan Vapi Well: This is a well that is located inside the mosque complex. It is believed that the well is a sacred site, and it is said to contain a Shiva lingam.
• The Mosque Complex: The mosque complex is a beautiful and impressive structure. It was built in the 17th century by the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb.
• The Hindu Temple Ruins: There are some ruins of a Hindu temple that are located inside the mosque complex. These ruins are believed to be the remains of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, which was demolished by Aurangzeb.
• The Gyan Vapi Court Case: There is a legal battle ongoing over the ownership of the Gyan Vapi Well. The case is being contested by both Hindus and Muslims, and it is a matter of great religious and political significance.
If you are planning a visit to Gyan Vapi Mosque, be sure to dress respectfully. Women should wear long skirts or pants, and men should wear long pants and shirts. You should also remove your shoes before entering the mosque complex.
Gyan Vapi Mosque is a truly special place, and it is a must-visit for any traveler to Varanasi. The mosque is a place of great religious and historical significance, and it is a place where you can experience the rich culture and history of India.
10. Narendra Dev University:
This is a public university located in Varanasi. The university was founded in 1921, and it is one of the largest universities in India.
Here are some things you can visit in Narendra Dev University in Varanasi:
• The University Campus: The university campus is a beautiful and sprawling campus located on the banks of the Ganges River. The campus is home to a number of academic buildings, as well as hostels, sports facilities, and a library.
• The Vishwavidyalaya Bhawan: This is the main administrative building of the university. The building is a beautiful example of Mughal architecture, and it is a popular spot for students and tourists alike.
• The Botanical Garden: The university has a beautiful botanical garden that is home to a variety of plants and flowers. The garden is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
• The Museum: The university has a museum that houses a collection of artifacts related to the history and culture of Varanasi. The museum is a great place to learn about the rich history of the city.
• The Sports Complex: The university has a sports complex that is home to a number of sports facilities, including a football field, a cricket ground, and a swimming pool. The sports complex is a great place to stay active and enjoy the outdoors.
If you are planning a visit to Narendra Dev University, be sure to dress respectfully. Women should wear long skirts or pants, and men should wear long pants and shirts. You should also remove your shoes before entering any of the academic buildings.
Narendra Dev University is a truly special place, and it is a must-visit for any traveler to Varanasi. The university is a place of great academic and cultural significance, and it is a place where you can experience the rich history and culture of India.
11. Banaras Hindu University:
This is a private university located in Varanasi. The university was founded in 1916, and it is one of the most prestigious universities in India.
Here are some things you can visit in Banaras Hindu University in Varanasi:
• The Main Building: This is the most iconic building in the university, and it is a beautiful example of Mughal architecture. The building houses the university's administrative offices, as well as a number of classrooms and lecture halls.
• The Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum: This museum houses a collection of art and artifacts from all over India, dating from the 2nd century BCE to the 20th century CE. The museum is a great place to learn about the rich history and culture of India.
• The Madan Mohan Malaviya Library: This is the largest library in Varanasi, and it houses a collection of over 2 million books and manuscripts. The library is a valuable resource for students, researchers, and scholars.
• The Botanical Garden: The university has a beautiful botanical garden that is home to a variety of plants and flowers. The garden is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
• The Sports Complex: The university has a sports complex that is home to a number of sports facilities, including a football field, a cricket ground, and a swimming pool. The sports complex is a great place to stay active and enjoy the outdoors.
If you are planning a visit to Banaras Hindu University, be sure to dress respectfully. Women should wear long skirts or pants, and men should wear long pants and shirts. You should also remove your shoes before entering any of the academic buildings.
Banaras Hindu University is a truly special place, and it is a must-visit for any traveler to Varanasi. The university is a place of great academic and cultural significance, and it is a place where you can experience the rich history and culture of India.
12. Chowk Bazaar:
This is a traditional market located in the heart of Varanasi. The market is a great place to find souvenirs, clothes, and other items.
Here are some things you can visit in Chowk Bazaar in Varanasi:
• The Chowk Bazaar: This is the oldest and largest market in Varanasi. The market is a maze of narrow streets and alleyways, and it is home to a wide variety of shops selling everything from clothes and jewelry to spices and food.
• The Kashi Vishwanath Temple: This is one of the most important Hindu temples in India, and it is located in the Chowk Bazaar. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and it is a popular spot for pilgrims and tourists alike.
• The Ghats: The Chowk Bazaar is also home to a number of ghats, which are steps leading down to the Ganges River. The ghats are a popular spot for bathing, as well as for religious ceremonies.
• The Food: The Chowk Bazaar is a great place to try some of the best street food in Varanasi. There are stalls selling everything from samosas and pakoras to kachoris and jalebis.
• The Shopping: The Chowk Bazaar is a great place to shop for souvenirs, as well as for traditional Indian clothing and jewelry. You can find everything from cheap trinkets to high-quality handicrafts.
If you are planning a visit to Chowk Bazaar, be sure to bargain with the shopkeepers. This is how you get the best prices. You should also be aware that the market can be very crowded, so be prepared to jostle your way through the crowds.
Chowk Bazaar is a truly special place, and it is a must-visit for any traveler to Varanasi. The market is a place of great historical and cultural significance, and it is a place where you can experience the rich culture and history of India.
13. Banarasi Silk:
This is a type of silk that is produced in Varanasi. Banarasi silk is known for its intricate patterns and vibrant colors.
Banarasi silk is a type of silk fabric that is produced in the Indian city of Varanasi. It is known for its fine quality, intricate patterns, and rich colors. Banarasi silk is a popular choice for sarees, saris, and other traditional Indian garments.
The history of Banarasi silk dates back to the 11th century. It is said that the fabric was first introduced to Varanasi by the Mughal emperor Akbar. Banarasi silk quickly became popular among the Mughal nobility, and it soon became known as one of the finest silks in the world.
Banarasi silk is made from the cocoons of the mulberry silkworm. The cocoons are first boiled to remove the silk fibers. The fibers are then spun into yarn, which is then woven into fabric. Banarasi silk is often dyed with natural dyes, which give it its rich colors.
Banarasi silk is a labor-intensive fabric to produce. It takes about 250 cocoons to make one yard of Banarasi silk. This is why Banarasi silk is one of the most expensive silks in the world.
Banarasi silk is a symbol of luxury and sophistication. It is a popular choice for special occasions, such as weddings and festivals. Banarasi silk is also a popular choice for gifts.
Banarasi silk is a unique and beautiful fabric with a long and rich history. It is a symbol of Indian culture and craftsmanship. Banarasi silk is a must-have for any traveler to India.
14. Ganga Aarti:
This is a ceremony that is held every evening at the Dashashwamedh Ghat. The ceremony involves the chanting of hymns and the offering of prayers to the Ganges River.
Here are some things you should know about Ganga Aarti in Varanasi:
• Ganga Aarti: is a Hindu ritual that is performed every evening at the banks of the Ganges River in Varanasi. The ritual is a prayer to the Ganges River, and it is a way to cleanse oneself of sin and to seek blessings from the river.
• The Timing: Ganga Aarti is usually performed around 6:00 pm, but the exact timing may vary depending on the time of year.
• The Process: The ritual begins with the lighting of a fire. The priests then chant mantras and offer prayers to the Ganges River. They also float offerings of flowers, rice, and sweets into the river.
• The Significance: Ganga Aarti is a very important ritual for Hindus. It is a way to show their respect for the Ganges River, and it is a way to seek blessings from the river. The ritual is also a popular tourist attraction, and it is a great way to experience the culture and history of Varanasi.
• The Location: Ganga Aarti is usually performed at Dashashwamedh Ghat, which is one of the most important ghats in Varanasi. The ghat is located on the banks of the Ganges River, and it is a popular spot for pilgrims and tourists alike.
If you are planning to attend Ganga Aarti, be sure to arrive early. The ghat can get very crowded, and you may not be able to get a good spot if you arrive late. You should also dress respectfully. Women should wear long skirts or pants, and men should wear long pants and shirts. You should also remove your shoes before entering the ghat.
Ganga Aarti is a truly special event, and it is a must-see for any visitor to Varanasi. The ritual is a beautiful and moving experience, and it is a great way to connect with the culture and history of India.
15. Varanasi Ghats:
The ghats are a series of steps that lead down to the Ganges River. The ghats are a popular spot for pilgrims and tourists alike, and they are a great place to relax and take in the views of the river.
Here are some things you should know about Varanasi ghats in Varanasi:
Ghats: are a series of steps leading down to the Ganges River in Varanasi. They are used for bathing, religious ceremonies, and festivals.
The History: The ghats were built over centuries, and they are a testament to the rich history of Varanasi. The oldest ghats are said to have been built in the 11th century, and the most recent were built in the 19th century.
The Significance: The ghats are of great religious significance to Hindus. They are considered to be sacred, and they are a place where people can come to cleanse themselves of sin and to seek blessings from the Ganges River.
The Different Types of Ghats: There are many different types of ghats in Varanasi. Some of the most popular ghats include:
* Dashashwamedh Ghat: This is the most important ghat in Varanasi. It is where Ganga Aarti is performed every evening.
* Manikarnika Ghat: This is the ghat where most cremations take place. It is said that if you are cremated at Manikarnika Ghat, you will be liberated from the cycle of reincarnation.
* Assi Ghat: This is the southernmost ghat in Varanasi. It is a popular spot for pilgrims and tourists alike.
* Panchganga Ghat: This is the ghat where five rivers meet. It is a popular spot for bathing and religious ceremonies.
The Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit the ghats is early in the morning or in the evening. This is when the ghats are less crowded, and you can enjoy the peace and quiet.
If you are planning to visit the ghats, be sure to dress respectfully. Women should wear long skirts or pants, and men should wear long pants and shirts. You should also remove your shoes before entering the ghats.
The ghats are a truly special place, and they are a must-see for any visitor to Varanasi. The ghats are a place of great religious and cultural significance, and they are a place where you can experience the rich culture and history of India.
These are just a few of the many famous places to visit in Varanasi. If you are planning a trip to this ancient city, be sure to add some of these places to your itinerary.
Top famous places to visit in Varanasi - NGpublisher
Reviewed by Nitu Gupta
on
August 13, 2023
Rating:
Reviewed by Nitu Gupta
on
August 13, 2023
Rating:
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