“The Spiritual Capital of India”
Old is Gold and jeweling stone of India, Varanasi enchants its visitors with its simply beautiful spiritual charm and divine vibes. Owing to the name of Kashi (City of Life) and Banaras, this destination is one of the famous Hindu seven holy cities in the country. Sits alongside the western banks of Ganges, the old city of Varanasi is considered as the dwell of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Being a popular pilgrimage center, Kashi is an abode of over 23,000 temples of various deities that have been worshiped by pilgrims from across India.
Banaras is well-famed for its centuries-old spiritual significance that makes this place a major hub of both devotees and tourists as well. The oldest inhabited city in India, it is believed to be a place considered holy where River Ganges behold the power of absolving all of the sins of devotees. The scriptures and traditions dictate every good deed that one experiences here in any form.
Things to do
Take a boat ride in River Ganges
With rowing boat rides during the dawn at the ghats of Varanasi offers the best experience that a traveler must never miss. It takes one across the different ghats and former palaces located close to the banks of the Ganga river. Spending early morning hours in this way is quite good to witness the sunset.
Rendezvous with deities at Varanasi temples
Owing to its religious significance, the temples of Varanasi are featured high on the list of things to do in the city. When visiting the holy land of deities, the temples of Varanasi are the most important attraction. The mesmerizing architecture of temples is noteworthy because it lets you know about the finest work of age-old artisans.
Stroll leisurely along the Ghats
Spending some time alongside the River Ganges in Varanasi during the time of sunset or sunrise offers the most charming sight of the holy city. It is an absolute peerless experience of life that can be enjoyed when traveling to the city.
Evening aarti at Ganges River Ghat
When visiting Varanasi, the foremost important thing to do in the city is to attend the evening aarti. It is undoubtedly a sight that one shall never miss in a lifetime. The surreal ceremony that must be viewed from the Dashawamedh Ghat. Religious chants, aromas of flowers and incense creates a heavenly blessing for every tourist in the city.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit is during the months of Winter season as by this time the heat has ebbed leaving the weather pleasant and perfect for Varanasi Sightseeing. Although, the city enjoys a great climate throughout the year that allows a traveler to enjoy their best holidays while experiencing the spiritual significance and exploring the marvelous architectures of the city.
The main cremation ghat in Varanasi, Manikarnika Ghat is an auspicious location for dying among the Hindu Pilgrims. A tale goes like that, Lord Shiva himself gave this place a status of revered. It was believed that any soul that receives its final ritual, the rituals in Varanasi receives moksha (freedom from the rebirth cycle).
The reunion point of the River Ganges and River of Assi at the southside of Kashi, Assi Ghat is one of the most often visited places of Varanasi. The city owns a custom of taking a bath in the river stream of Ganga before worshipping Lord Shiva. This ghat gets relive during the festival season mainly Shivratri and Diwali.
Amongst the 12 Jyotirlingas or sacred centers or worship of Lord Shiva in India, Kashi Vishwanath Temple is the holiest temple on the planet earth. It was believed to have been the sites where Lord Shiva appeared in the way of light. Thousands of devotees mark their visit to this temple during the celebration of Diwali and Shivratri.
The fabled old-world legend, Durga Temple is well-known as the monkey temple of Varanasi. Dated back to the 18th century, the temple is painted with red and ochre. Dedicated to the goddess Durga, the mesmerizing beauty of this temple make out for a memorable experience of life.
Settled opposite to the Tulsi Ghat, the Ramnagar Fort was dated back to the 18th century crumbling ruin in dire need of restoration. This age-old rampart is also home to a vintage museum that is popular for its rare collection of old American cars, ivory works, huge astronomical clock, and more. The crimson sunset views from inside this fortress is a major reason that makes it a place to visit in Varanasi.
