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Top 12 Tourist Places in Varanasi

Top 12 Tourist Places in Varanasi, also popularly known as Benares and Kashi, is one of the world’s oldest living cities situated on the banks of the holy River Ganges in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. Steeped in tradition and mythological legacy, this City of Lord Shiva is one of the most important pilgrimage destinations for not only Hindus, but Buddhists and Jains as well.

Believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, who stood upon this land at the beginning of time, Varanasi is “older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend” as Mark Twain had rightly put it. Since time immemorial, Varanasi has attracted hordes of pilgrims and devotees from all corners of the world, who come here to explore the religious places and other tourist attractions in Varanasi. To be in Varanasi is an experience of a lifetime, a self–discovery of its own kind, whereby you’ll experience an eternal oneness of the body and soul.

Mythology reins in Varanasi, and the city offers a breathtaking experience to every visitor. The early morning sun rays shimmering across the holy Ganges, the temples and shrines adorning the high banks drenched in a golden hue, the air filled with chants of soul-stirring hymns and mantras along with the fragrance of incense, and a refreshing dip in the holy waters – the multifarious sights and sounds of Varanasi will mesmerize you.

Besides having remained a major cultural and religious centre in northern India for ages, Varanasi is also famous for the Benares Gharana (school) of Indian classical music developed here. Varanasi is also home to the distinguished Banaras Hindu University. Numerous eminent Indian philosophers, poets, writers, and musicians resided in Varanasi at some point of time or other. The local people of Benares are known to be connoisseurs of literature, music, Vedic philosophy, arts, crafts and architecture Top 12 Tourist Places in Varanasi.


Top 12 Tourist Places in Varanasi

Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple

A holy destination near the Manikarnika Ghat in Varanasi, the Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple attracts Hindu pilgrims and visitors who travel hundreds of miles to visit it. The Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple is around four kilometers from the Varanasi Junction railway station. The spectacular monument, which is devoted to the Hindu god Shiva, has gained the moniker “The Golden Temple” because of its stunning spire, which is plated in about 800 kg of pure gold and is the tallest structure in the world. Because of its remarkable style, this temple has served as an inspiration for the construction of hundreds of other temples across India.

Tourists are required to deposit their cameras, phones, purses, and other personal goods in a rentable locker nearby due to the strict security measures in place surrounding the complex. Take off your shoes and join hundreds of other people waiting to touch the 60-centimeter-tall Shiva lingam housed in a silver altar, which is said to cleanse the sins of those who come near it. It’s a challenging but ultimately rewarding experience Varanasi Tour Packages.


Top 12 Tourist Places in Varanasi

Manikarnika Ghat

At Manikarnika Ghat, plumes of smoke rise to the sky in a swirling motion. Rather than coming from a factory, it is derived from the constant cremations that take place on this ghat. Hindus believe that Manikarnika Ghat is one of the most auspicious sites for the souls of the deceased to attain moksha (liberation from suffering) (emancipation from the cycle of spiritual rebirth). Hundreds of cremations take place every day at this ghat, which is open around the clock. The funeral pyre burns around the clock Top 12 Tourist Places in Varanasi.

Tourists are regularly approached by priests or guides who offer to walk them around the intriguing ghat; however, some might be pushy in their requests for money. Some Doms (members of an untouchable caste) may be seen carrying cloth-wrapped corpses on homemade stretchers, and mounds of firewood may be placed nearby, ready to be used as kindling for the pyre Varanasi Tourism.

You may also be given the opportunity to see a cremation up and personal – for a cost, of course. Even while it is a deep experience, it is not for the faint-hearted, nor is it a typical tourist destination in the conventional sense. Keep in mind your boundaries, be courteous, and refrain from photographing funerals, mourners, or the recently deceased.


Top 12 Tourist Places in Varanasi

Dhamek Stupa

While Hinduism undoubtedly has a grip on Varanasi, Buddhism has a significant presence in the nearby town of Sarnath, which is less than 12 kilometers away. A large stone and brick building measuring 43.6 meters in height and 28 meters in circumference, you’ll discover the Dhamek Stupa near the temple complex. The stupa was constructed more than 1,500 years ago as a replacement for a building that had been in existence since 249 BCE, according to legend.

The faithful believe that the Buddha visited Dhamek Stupa after attaining enlightenment in order to deliver his first speech, which revealed the Eightfold Path, to the people. As you go around the stupa, have a look at the intricate carvings of birds, people, and flowers that decorate the walls of the structure.

Additionally, Sarnath has several additional tourist attractions that make it an excellent day trip option from Varanasi. Visit the Chaukhandi Stupa (a Buddhist shrine that dates back at least to the 6th century), then head to the Sarnath Museum to see the Lion Capital of Ashoka, a sculpture that used to sit atop the Ashoka Pillar in 250 BCE and was later designated as the official Emblem of India by the government in 1950. Last but not least, spend some time exploring the serene Tibetan Temple before making your way back to Top 12 Tourist Places in Varanasi.


Top 12 Tourist Places in Varanasi

Dasaswamedh Ghat

The Dasaswamedh Ghat is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Varanasi because of its vibrant environment. In this bustling tourist attraction, you may find flower merchants boasting vibrant flowers, boat operators peddling tours along the Ganges River, and sadhus (holy men) decked up in colorful face paint. During the day, you may spend hours just walking about and people-watching.

At the Dasaswamedh Ghat in Varanasi, Hindu priests perform the Ganga Aarti every night, beginning at around 7 p.m. The priests, who are dressed in saffron robes, lay platters of flower petals and other gifts before blowing a conch shell to signify the beginning of the spiritual rite. For almost 45 minutes, thousands of visitors assemble to listen to the priests chant and wave tiered platters of sandalwood-scented incense in elaborate patterns before them. It’s a lavish sight to see and one of the most popular things to do in the area Top 12 Tourist Places in Varanasi.

You should get to the ghat at least two hours before the performance begins if you want to avoid the throng and secure a prime viewing position. In addition, from boats cruising along the river or from store balconies perched above the ghat, you may enjoy breathtaking vistas.


Top 12 Tourist Places in Varanasi

Assi Ghat

In terms of popular tourist destinations in Varanasi, the city’s southernmost principal ghat is always near the top of the list. The main feature in Assi Ghat is a Shiva lingam (phallic symbol of the Hindu god), which is located under a holy fig tree. It attracts hundreds of pilgrims every day who come to worship Lord Shiva after bathing in the Ganges River.

Are you feeling a bit stiff after your travels? Take a stroll down to Assi Ghat at the crack of dawn, when you may join dozens of other people in practicing downward-facing dogs to live music every day during morning yoga classes. Additionally, in the evenings, tourists may see another Ganga Aarti performance at this location, which is somewhat smaller and more personal than the one at Dasaswamedh Ghat.


Top 12 Tourist Places in Varanasi

Ganga River

The Ganges River, which was named after the Hindu goddess Ganga, is one of India’s most cherished natural wonders and is one of the world’s longest rivers. The river flows southeast from the Himalayas in the north to the Bay of Bengal, where it empties into the Indian Ocean. Around 600 million people depend on the Ganges River for their daily needs of bathing and drinking water respectively.

Hindus go from all over the globe to Varanasi to cleanse themselves in the sacred Ganges water and to conduct rituals along the hundreds of ghats (washing stations) that line the river. When it comes to visitors, the river serves as a fixed point of direction for traveling about the city, and you’ll spend a significant amount of time touring and taking in the views of life along the Ganges River.

Consider getting up early and enjoying a dawn ride down the river – bargain with one of the innumerable boatmen that hang out along the ghats to get a good deal on a boat. The purchasing of a tiny floating offering packed with fresh flowers and a candle and the releasing of the offering into the Ganges River are two of the most popular activities to do in Varanasi in the afternoon or early evening. Having this delightful experience will help you connect more deeply with Hindu culture and will be etched in your memory for years to come Top 12 Tourist Places in Varanasi.


Banaras Hindu University

Since its founding in 1916, Banaras Hindu University has played an important role in the development of Varanasi’s identity. A total of more than 25,000 students attend the well-regarded public institution, making it one of Asia’s biggest residential universities. There are no hill stations in the vicinity of Varanasi, so if you’re searching for a place to get away from the throng and the hustle and bustle of the city, come to this lovely 1,300-acre campus instead.

The tranquil location is covered by hundreds of towering trees and provides a welcome respite from the bustling environment of the Banaras Ghats, which can be found nearby. While on campus, pay a visit to the New Vishwanath Temple, a well-known temple that was ultimately completed in 1966 after a decade-long building process.

The temple, which stands 77 meters tall, is one of the highest in India, and it takes its architectural cues from the adjacent Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple.

Visitors to the institution should also make a point of visiting the Bharat Kala Bhavan, which is located on the campus’s grounds. The cultural institution is home to a stunning collection of miniature paintings, as well as more than 100,000 additional objects of archaeological and aesthetic significance, all of which are on display Top 12 Tourist Places in Varanasi.


Shri Durga Temple

Varanasi is home to a variety of spiritual activities that are not limited to the ghats. The Shri Durga Temple, located about a five-minute walk west of Assi Ghat, is a popular destination for Hindus who seek to pay homage to the goddess Durga. The 300-year-old temple is easily identifiable since it is painted brilliant crimson from top to bottom.

Monkey Temple is the temple’s nickname, which provides you a hint as to what kind of critters you can see swinging about in this region. You may also see a pair of lovely swans swimming on the surface of a pool of water in front of the temple building Top 12 Tourist Places in Varanasi.


Ramnagar Fort

Varanasi is one of the few Indian cities that does not have a fort, and it is no exception. Ramnagar Fort is located around 14 kilometers outside of the city core. Originally built as a defensive structure, the 18th-century sandstone fort and palace is now home to a quirky museum filled with vintage automobiles, elaborate hookahs, antique firearms, sedan chairs decked out in jewels, and a unique astronomical clock that has been in operation for more than 150 years.

After taking part in an archaeological treasure hunt at the museum, visit the fort’s temples, one of which is dedicated to Veda Vyasa, the author of the Mahabharata and other key Hindu epics Top 12 Tourist Places in Varanasi.


Darbhanga Ghat

Photographers should be aware that Darbhanga Ghat provides the ideal chance to capture breathtaking images of Varanasi. The ultra-luxurious BrijRama Palace, a historic fort that has been turned into a heritage hotel, stands at the top of the steps going down to the riverfront. The Greek pillars and curving balconies of the home provide a royal air to the surrounding region (and to your images) Top 12 Tourist Places in Varanasi.

Come early in the morning to get unimpeded views of the spectacular sunrise over The Ganges River.


Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple

The Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, which is located on the banks of the Assi River, attracts hundreds of people each day who come to present sweets and flowers to the Hindu deity Hanuman, who is worshipped at the temple. According to legend, this temple was built on the site where Hindu saint and poet Goswami Tulsidas had a vision of the monkey deity, which inspired him to build it. When it comes to monkeys, keep an eye out for the mischievous critters that have been sighted jumping about the temple on several occasions.

The months of April and May are especially favorable for visiting this Varanasi destination. That’s when the temple conducts its annual “Sankat Mochan Sangeet Samaroh,” a festival of classical music and dance presentations that takes place over a period of five to six days in the spring and summer. Participating in the almost 100-year-old festival brings together performers from all over the globe Top 12 Tourist Places in Varanasi.


Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum

When the Bharatiya Lalit Kala Parishad was established in a wing of the Godowlia Palace in Varanasi on 1st January 1920, it was the beginning of the realization of the plan for Bharat Kala Bhavan. After being relocated to numerous different places across Varanasi between 1920 and 1962, the museum’s collection was finally established in the current structure in 1950 by Jawaharlal Nehru Top 12 Tourist Places in Varanasi.

The museum was subsequently relocated to its current location at the Banaras Hindu University in 1962. Mahatma Gandhi visited Bharat Kala Bhavan three times, and on his third visit, he wrote on the wall of the building, “the collection is extremely nice.”

The Bharat Kala Bhavan is a university museum in Varanasi, India, and is situated on the campus of Banaras Hindu University. It has played a significant role in the transmission of information about Indian art and culture. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in both the Banaras Hindu University and the city of Varanasi, and it is open to the public Top 12 Tourist Places in Varanasi.

10 Places to visit in Varanasi

10 Places to visit in Varanasi is a famous tourist spot for a good many reasons. The City of Ghats has in its store history which goes back to many centuries. Tourism in Varanasi is something very obvious, also because it is a renowned pilgrimage destination. The Holy City offers a vast range of holiday and pilgrimage destinations to the travelers.

The main attractions in Varanasi which is also known as Kashi are The Ghats of Vanarasi, St. Mary’s Church, Bharat Kala Museum, Ram Nagar Durg, Benaras Hindu University, Nandeshwar Kothi etc. Apart from these, the pilgrimage destinations in Kashi are the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Tulsi Manas Temple, Bharat Mata Temple and Durga Temple. The tour to the neighborhood of Varanasi includes Chunar, Sarnath, Jaunpur. Chandra Prabha Wildlife Sanctuary and Kaimoor Wildlife Sanctuary are the two tourist spots which are most likely to please the adventure lovers.

Accommodation in most parts of Varanasi is highly equipped with the most updated amenities. There are all kinds of lodging options for the travelers. Starting from the tourist lodge, Varanasi has loads of mid-range and Dharmshalas which offer lodging and dining in reasonable rates.

Fairs and Festivals are on the cards all round the year in Varanasi. To name some of these are Kartik Purnima, Buddh Purnima, Ganga Festival, Ramlila, Bharat Milap, Hanumat Jayanti, Nakkatyya, Panch Koshi Parikrama and Mahashivratri, 10 Places to visit in Varanasi.


10 Places to visit in Varanasi

Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Many people see it as the main temple and very popular places to visit in Varanasi, and some consider it the most significant temple in the entire country. Its story is as old as over three thousand and five hundred years, which is an astounding amount of time. So much has happened in and around it, that it is hard not to feel overwhelmed when visiting it. It is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas that are Shivalingas that are the physical symbols of Lord Shiva. The spires and domes of the shrine are completely covered in gold, and Best Time to Visit Varanasi.

Time: 2:30 AM to 11:00 PM

Temple time Schedule:

  • Mangal Aarti: 2:30 AM
  • Bhog Aarti: 11:30 AM to 12:00 pm
  • Sapta Rishi Aarti: 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM
  • Shringar/Bhog Aarti: 9:00 PM

10 Places to visit in Varanasi

Vishwanath Temple

India is a tourist’s country where people from all over the world are visiting the country regularly. In India, you can find more tourists spot, and you can enjoy the uniqueness of their cultures, food habits and traditional progress. Among the other tourists spot, the most wanted and demand tourist spot is Varanasi. There are many places to visit in Varanasi you can find the daily lifestyle in different aspects. The food habits and way of greeting with sweet also their wear of colourful clothes. The city has two holy water bodies, which flow on it Varanasi Tour Packages.

Located inside Banaras Hindu University, this temple has tourists flocking to its doors daily. The Birla family, a hugely successful group of entrepreneurs in India, commissioned its construction, leading locals to call it Birla Temple. A great thing about the temple is that it is not just one building but also seven separate temples that together make one big religious complex. The tourist places in Varanasi legendary old Vishwanath temple is a direct inspiration for the design of this temple 10 Places to visit in Varanasi.

Time: 2:30 AM to 11:00 PM

Temple Schedule:

  • Mangal Aarti: 2:30 AM
  • Bhog Aarti: 11:30 AM to 12:00 pm
  • Sapta Rishi Aarti: 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM
  • Shringar/Bhog Aarti: 9:00 PM
  • Shayana Aarti: 10:30 PM

10 Places to visit in Varanasi

Manikarnika Ghat, Varanasi

This ghat is again quite significant among Hindus as it is the main cremation ghat in the city. People who have died often get cremated here in the belief that they attain moksha. A myth says Devi Parvati’s ear ornament fell at the exact spot of this ghat when Lord Shiva came here with her. Although the atmosphere is rather grim here most days, it is still a very historic place to visit and famous places in Varanasi. Also, referred to as the burning ghat, it is certainly an important part of Varanasi, just as death is to live!

Time: Open throughout the day


Durga Temple

It is also a very prominent places to visit in Varanasi. Dedicated to Goddess Durga, this temple is a symbol of feminine divinity. The Varanasi tourist places deity present in this temple is believed to have materialized out of thin air and was not made by any man. Another badge of feminism for this temple is that a woman commissioned it. The Maharani of Bengal was responsible for its making, and it was according to her wishes, it was constructed in the Nagara style of architecture 10 Places to visit in Varanasi.

Time: 5:00 AM- 9:00 PM


10 Places to visit in Varanasi

Bharat Mata Temple:

Being dedicated to the country itself, it is one of the rarest temples in the country. India is famous for its millions of temples and nationalist spirit, but there are very few places commemorating the country itself. In addition, since this is such a rare temple, it is visited by almost everyone who comes to 10 Places to visit in Varanasi.

Situated within the Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapith campus, it was inaugurated by Gandhi himself in 1936. It was supposed to be an inspiring beacon of love and hope for all that we’re fighting against the British. Instead of a statue of a deity that looks like a human, this temple’s statue is mountains, plains, and oceans. They are the Best Season to Visit Varanasi by everyone.

Time: 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM


10 Places to visit in Varanasi

Dashashwamedh Ghat

In these religious places in Varanasi, the particular ghat is believed to be the oldest in the city and is considered special. If you have seen video footage of people bathing in Ganga and praying with diyas in their hands on the banks of a river, the odds are that it was this ghat you saw. It is often abuzz because of the hordes of people who flock to it to wash away their sins and pray. Ascetics, Hindu devotees and tourists alike all alight on the banks of the Ganga at Dashashwamedh Ghat daily. Being such an important landmark and host to the famous Ganga aarti,

Aarti Time: 7:00 PM to 7:45 PM (summers)
Time: 6:00 PM to 6:45 PM (winters)


Assi Ghat, Varanasi

Assi Ghat is believed to be the place where the legendary poet Tulsidas passed away. The southernmost ghat in the region, it is among the most popular with tourists. About 300 people visit it per hour, but during festival days, that number can be as high as 2500 people. When here, you can go on a leisurely boat ride on the river or even a hot air balloon excursion! Devotees bathe here before conducting rituals as the river’s water is said to purity their soul, preparing them for the task.

Time: Open throughout the day


Manmandir Ghat, Varanasi

Raja Man Singh commissioned it in the early 1600s. It is one of the less crowded places to visit in Varanasi. He had a large stone balcony built on the northern corner of the ghat to sit there and enjoy the serenity. Compared to other ghats, this ghat has a lower footfall, making it an excellent place to spend a day. Located just north of Dashashwamedh ghat, it is a great spot for observing the Ganga flow peacefully. Another great reason to visit this ghat is its closeness to several prominent temples so that you can cover numerous places in one go. Some of the closest temples are Someshwar Temple, Rameshwar Temple and Sthuladanta Vinayaka.

Time: Open throughout the day.


Ramnagar Fort, Varanasi

Located across the Ganga River from Tulsi Ghat, it was built out of sandstone in AD 1750 on the orders of Raja Balwant Singh, the king of Banaras at the time. He and his descendants have lived in that fort for centuries now. In 1971, the government abolished the position of an official king, but still, Pelu Bhiru Singh is commonly referred to as the Maharaja of Varanasi. Even though Hindu kings built it, it is a testament to the region’s diversity built in the Mughal architectural style. It houses Veda Vyasa Temple, the king’s living quarters, and a museum dedicated to regional history. It’s ancient history makes it a very beautiful tourist attractions in Varanasi.

Time: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: Rs.20


Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple

It is a popular religious tourist attractions in Varanasi. This lovely temple, located near the Assi River, was created by a liberation fighter named Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya. Inside the temple, there are shrines to both Lord Ram & Hanuman. Be cautious of the monkeys in the vicinity. Mandir gates are open from 8 am morning to 7 pm. You can take the blessing of Lord Hanuman here. It is situated in the Bhojubeer colony of Varanasi.

How to reach- You can track Sankat Mochan by Electronic Rickshaw from Cant Railway Station. Or, You can book an Auto paying 200 INR to reach the site.

Places to See in Varanasi

Places to See in Varanasi, a city that oozes charm and mesmerizing beauty, is amongst the holiest cities in India and arguably in the world. With a massive number of temples, shrines, and ghats, for anyone who seeks the blessings of the almighty, Varanasi, should be at the top of their priority list.

Known as Lord Shiva’s City, this majestic place has a distinct essence in its soothing surroundings, which would certainly leave any visitor spell bounded. Many people from all over India visit the shores of the pious Ganges River and take a holy bath, which is believed to banish all the sins from the body and soul Places to See in Varanasi.

If you are visiting Varanasi Tourism any time sooner, then boat riding at the holy Ganges river should be at the top of your bucket list. This would be an unforgettable experience of your life as the picturesque views from the rides have a charm of its own.

The stunning panoramic experience of temples and practices of Hindu rituals would harmonize your heart and soul. You should also attend the glorious Aarti sessions at the Ganges River. Spiritual chants and the essence of aromatic surroundings will be an ideal experience if the person wishes for a calm and serene place to cherish.

This divine ceremony is even enhanced in magnitude when witnessed at the Dasaswamedh Ghat. The use of heavy brass lamps for the ceremony makes the experience even more satisfying Day Tours.

Another important landmark of Varanasi popularly known as Sarnath is renowned as the place where Lord Buddha illustrated Dharma. It is amongst the most prominent Buddhist sites all around the world. You can also witness the humongous pillar of Dharmekh Stupa. Also, the visual brilliance of the Ashoka Pillar would be a treat to your eyes. Varanasi is truly an alluring site that captivates travelers with its holiness and tranquility Places to See in Varanasi.


History

Almost midway in its long journey from the slopes of the mighty Himalayas to the inflamed shore of Bay of Bengal, the muddy waters of the Ganges flow by a city that is five centuries older than Christ. The city finds mention in the great epics of Mahabharata and Ramayana. It was already an old city when Rome was founded, and was a flourishing center of trade when Buddha came to Sarnath, some 10 km away, to preach his first sermon in 500 BC. It is a city of temples and for more than 2,500 years, it has attracted pilgrims from near and far.

According to Hindu belief, Benaras or Varanasi as it is known, is the cosmic center of the Universe. The renowned American novelist Mark Twain once wrote, “Benaras is older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend and looks twice as old as all of them put together” Places to See in Varanasi.

Down the ages, Varanasi Tour Packages has stood as a symbol of Hindu renaissance. Swathed in an aura of history, religion, and tradition, Varanasi preserved the rituals and traditions of Hindu philosophy. From a time stretching beyond human memory, pilgrims from distant lands have come to Varanasi in search of divine blessings.


Places to see in Varanasi

There are so many ghats and temples that for a first time visitor it will be hard to know where to start. Varanasi is overwhelming and there is no way you can cover all the Places to See in Varanasi in a single trip.

Varanasi is a perfect city to stay for a longer time period and many travellers do. It’s a city where you can walk around for days and still discover new things.

However, let me be honest, not all ghats and temples are equally interesting. If you are limited on time there are only a few must places to see in Varanasi that will give you a good feel for the city.

Manikarna ghat (cremation ghats)

Of all the places to see in Varanasi the most confronting are the cremation ghats. Hindu’s believe that a cremation on the banks of the river Ganges will free the soul from the cycle of death and rebirth.

The bodies are placed on pillars of wood and the rituals are performed in full view for anyone to see. It’s a privilege to be burned in Varanasi, but not everybody can afford the expenses.

I was invited to visit the elderly home right behind the cremation ghats. Because of my work with elderly people in the Netherlands I was curious. Several old women lived in one room where they had nothing more than a bed and a small table.

They came from all over India, but when they felt their time was coming, they sold all their belongings and moved to Varanasi to make sure their remains would unite with the holy Ganges. The women, already widowed, seemed at peace with their coming end.

They also didn’t seem to mind the fact that the owner was bringing in tourists in the hope for donations that according to him would be to pay for the funerals. I left with mixed feelings tough and after a bit of research it is clear that a lot of scams are going around in this area Places to See in Varanasi.

Dashashwamedh Ghat

Dashashwamedh Ghat is among the top places to see in Varanasi for Hindu rituals. It is the oldest and holiest ghat among the Ganges rivers. In Hindy mythology the ghat was created by Lord Brahma to welcome Lord Shiva. This is where every day the elaborate evening prayers are performed.

Dead and birth are close to each other in Varanasi. One Hindu priest may perform the prayers for a family who just lost a loved one while the priest next to him might perform prayers for a new-born baby.

Watching these elaborate rituals and the smiles and tears from the people involved, makes you wonder and reflect on life in general. Places to See in Varanasi is a spiritual place that inspired my toughts. I felt small in the presence of something that was bigger than myself. A connection with the cycle of life that is so visible and concrete in this place.

Assi ghat

Assi ghat is home to many of Varanasi’s visitors that decided to stay here for a longer period of time. There is a lively community of travellers, expats, researchers and students.

For those that rise early there is a morning prayer at Assi ghat every day. It is similar to the evening prayers at the Dashaswamedh ghat, but then much more quiet and peaceful Places to See in Varanasi.

Kedar ghat

For a slice of South India in Varanasi you should visit the colourful Kedar ghat. On top of the ghat is the Kedareshwar temple that is extremely holy for South Indians. The nearby Parvati kund has a pool of water that is believed to have healing powers. It is one of the best places to see in Varanasi for the beautiful views over the river.

Kashi Vishwanath temple

Varanasi has hundreds of temples and it would be impossible to visit them all. The most important temple in Varanasi is the Kashi Vishwanath temple. It is one of the 12 holy Shiva temples in the world and every day it receives thousands of visitors.

During one of Shiva’s festivals it is probably almost impossible to get in as a tourist, because of the number of pilgrims. Only 100 meters further is the small Annapurna Devi Mandir where people come to pray to the goddess of food for a well nourished life Places to See in Varanasi.


Best time to visit Varanasi

The winter season is the best time to visit Varanasi. From November to March, Varanasi experiences pleasant and soothing weather which makes the sightseeing and outdoor activities comfortable. The temperature remains low and the region enjoys the soothing breeze throughout the day. In the summer and monsoon seasons, Varanasi experiences hot and humid weather, which makes sightseeing difficult. Ganga Mahotsav, Deepavali, Maha Shivaratri, and Chhath Pooja are the popular festivals of Varanasi that are celebrated every year in the winter season, which attracts a large number of tourists. This festival is the perfect way to witness the rich cultural heritage of Places to See in Varanasi.


How To Reach Varanasi

By Air : The holy city of Varanasi has an airport which connects it well with the main cities of India like Delhi, Mumbai, Khajuraho etc.

By Rail : There are two railway stations in Varanasi namely Varanasi Junction and Varanasi City. They connect the city with the major cities of India such as Delhi and Kolkata.

By Road : Varanasi is easily accessible by road from the various cities of the country such as Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai and Bangalore.