Varanasi The Soulful City- The Gateway to Spiritual Bliss
Varanasi-also known as Banaras or Kashi- a kaleidoscopic Hindu city on the banks of holy river Ganga is an India of a traveler’s imagination. It is one of the most enchanting and colorful place on the planet earth which holds surprises for its visitors around every corner.
Varanasi is a sacred city held in high regard by the Hindus and is one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world. Temples and Ghats abound here. There is spirituality in the air of Varanasi which attracts pilgrims and travelers from across the globe. It is believed that taking a dip in the holy river Ganga, one washes away one’s sins. It is truly a gateway to inner peace.
The city is magical and has a lot to offer to tourists to experience. Aptly named ‘The City of Light’, Varanasi may turn out to be your favorite place in India.
Some of the major attractions of Varanasi are:
Varanasi Temples
The entire Varanasi city is lined with hundreds of temples, each having its own charm. Among all the temples, Vishwanath Temple is the most famous and revered one.
Vishwanath Temple
Dedicated to Lord Shiva-the lord of the universe, the temple dates back to the year 1776 when Ahilya Bai of Indore built it. Around 50 years later, Maharaja Ranjit Singh of Lahore offered 800 kg of gold for gold plating on the dome and tower of the temple. Pilgrims line-up here for hours to give an offering to the lingam (phallic symbol of Shiva), which relieves one of all sins.
Varanasi Ghats
The holy city of Varanasi has many Ghats which beautifully reflect its cultural heritage. Spend some time at the Ghats and it will evoke a spiritual feeling in you. Each Ghat has its own sacred aura. You can take a boat ride from one Ghat to another and that is quite an attraction here. Although there are many Ghats in the city such as Panchganga Ghat, Kedar Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, Tulsi Ghat and many more but Dashashwamedh is a must-visit.
Dashashwamedh Ghat
It is a lively and colorful ghat which is known for its evening Ganga Aarti (river worship). According to the legend Lord Brahma (the creator of the universe) sacrificed 10 horses here and hence this place got its name Dashashwanedh. It is a soulful place to walk around and soak in the spiritual vibrations.
Munshi Ghat
Also known as Darbhanga Ghat, it is the most picturesque ghat of Varanasi. Capture beautiful views of the city from this ghat!
Ramnagar Fort
Ideally located on the opposite bank of the holy river Ganga, Ramnagar Fort is a historic fort built in the 18th century. It once serves as the abode of the Maharajas of Banaras. It encompasses a temple and a museum apart from other royal structures. Reflecting the Mughal Era charm, the fort is a treat for the senses.
Banaras Hindu University
Banaras Hindu University is one of the most famous universities of India. Established in 1916, this university boasts of a wonderful museum called Bharat Kala Bhavan- a museum with a fascinating collecting of miniature paintings, local history displays, sculptures and 12th-century palm-leaf manuscripts.
Excursion from Varanasi
If you are visiting Varanasi, then do visit Sarnath too which is just few kilometers from the holy city. Sarnath is the sacred place where Buddha first taught the Dharma. It is a beautiful and peaceful place built by many Asian countries incorporating their architectural styles. It has wonderful stupas such as Dhamek Stupa, Chaukhandi Stupa, Dharmarajika Stupa and Ashoka Pillar.
Best places to eat in Varanasi
Travelers can enjoy a variety of Indian food in the lanes of the arresting city.
Baati Chokha
On the Puran Das Road offers lip-smacking sattu parathas, and litti chokhas reflecting the authentic taste of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.
Deena Chat Bhandar
On the Dashaswmedh Road is famous for its delicious quick snacks and chaat. Don’t forget to try its palak chaat.
Blue Lassi Shop–
Visit this shop to beat the heat with cool and scrumptious lassi. Located at Kachowari Gali Chowk, this shop offers flavored lassi using seasonal fruits. They have been serving for over three generations. From plain lassi to Kesar lassi, coconut lassi and blueberry lassi, you will be spoilt for choice.
Brown Bread Bakery
The fascinating venue of this bakery includes more than 40 varieties of European-quality cheese and more than 30 types of bread, cakes, and cookies.
Shopping in Varanasi
Varanasi offers a variety of handicrafts for taking home as souvenirs. Banarasi saree is the most famous handicraft of Varanasi and is available at most of the shops.
Some of the best places to shop for a variety of handicrafts in Varanasi are:
Thatheri Bazaar – silk and woolens
Chowk And Urban Haat– handicrafts and hand looms.
Lahurabir– Jewellery.
Godowlia– textiles, carpets, weaving and embroidered silk of high quality.
Best time to visit
The best time to explore the amazing city Varanasi is from October to February when the climate is pleasant.
How to reach
Varanasi is easily accessible by road, rail, and air from all the major cities of India.
Kindly Note:
- Never take pictures of the funeral ceremonies at the ghats.
- Bags, phones, or pens are not allowed in the Vishwanath Temple. Deposit them in the nearby lockers.
Shared By an young travel writer