Varanasi
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.
If you are visiting Varanasi 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.
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.
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Varanasi FAQ's
Travel Advice
There are many scammers in Varanasi who will try to fool you by selling fake jewelry, gemstones, performing different poojas and many other things. So, do not speak to strangers.
Review the accommodation where you plan to stay.
There are a lot of thugs who dress up as sadhus in and try to fool you. Hence, do not offer any money to someone who asks for help.
Do not pay for VIP passes inside temples.
Do not carry a lot of cash with you as incidences like pick pocketing are very common in Varanasi.
Pre-decide the fare if you are taking local public transport services. Book all you travel tickets through authorized travel agencies.
Drinking Laws
It is not allowed to consume alcohol in the vicinity of the temples, ghats and shrines but you can consume alcohol on the outskirts of Varanasi, where the minimum drinking age is 21 years.
Our Recommendations: What you can’t afford to miss?
What you will like there?
Evening Aarti
Old Architecture
Street Shopping
Recommended reads for destination
When is the best time to visit Varanasi?
The best time to visit Varanasi is during the winter months (November to February). Although it gets fairly cold during the winters, this is the best time when you can explore the holy city without getting tired. The average low temperature is around 5°C.
How to reach Varanasi?
Varanasi has a well-developed transport network and is well connected to all the major Indian cities and states by air, road and rail.
- By air : Varanasi airport is well-linked to some of the major cities in India like Delhi and Mumbai. International tourists can board connecting flights from Delhi airport which is well-connected to all the major cities in the world.
- By Rail : Since Varanasi lies in the heartland of the North Indian plains, it is well connected to Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai and other parts of India. There are two railway stations in Varanasi, the Kashi Junction and the Varanasi Junction (also known as Varanasi Cantonment). Rajdhani Express from Delhi or from Calcutta passes through Varanasi too.
- By Road : Situated in the flat Ganga plains, Varanasi has a good network of roads. frequent public and private buses and road transport to all the major towns of Uttar Pradesh and nearby areas.
What are the different things/activities to do in Varanasi?
Things to do in Varanasi are not as numerous as to do lists in other cities, yet a few of them get overlooked by those planning a trip to this town. Here’s a list of things/activities to do in Varanasi:
- Boat ride in the mighty Ganges : The holy Ganges River supplies Varanasi with a spiritual charm with Rowing boat rides during the dawn which is perhaps one of the best things to do in Varanasi.
- Take a holy dip in Ganges : Varanasi has more than 84 Ghats with stairs leading to the waters. Bathing can be seen since the crack of dawn. People chant prayers to appease river Goddess.
- Rendezvous with the Gods in the temples of Kashi : Owing to their religious significance, temples feature high on the list of things to do in Varanasi.
- A stroll through the majestic Ghats at dawn : The Ghats along the River Ganga in Varanasi is the most charming sight in the holy city. Strolling along the Ghats at sunset hours is an unrivalled experience
- Evening aarti the Ghats of Ganges : The Evening Aarti Ceremony at Ganges River in Varanasi is undoubtedly a sight you shall cherish for a long time. The surreal ceremony must be viewed from the Dasaswamedh Ghat. Witness the beautiful rituals unfold themselves in front of your eyes and spellbind you. The Arti ceremony is performed every evening 45 minute ritual is held at 6: 45 PM.
- Shopping one of the finest handmade silks in the world : Known for their gold and silver brocade or zari, fine silk and opulent embroidery. These saris are mostly used by Indian bride.
- Go to sightseeing tour of Sarnath : Sarnath is located just 12 km the holy city of Varanasi. The holy site of Sarnath is popular because this is where Gautama Buddha first taught the Dharma after his enlightenment. The relics of the area draw visitors in huge numbers.
- Reminiscing history and culture in Varanasi : History has been written in every era Varanasi has seen. Every little nook and corner has a different story to tell.
- Hogging on the street food throughout the day: Food stalls serving a variety of mouth watering snacks can be found all around the city.
Which are the best resorts to stay in Varanasi?
A variety of lavish hotels and resorts are present across Varanasi, apart from the finest hospitality these hotels have a number of tours to offer. Some the best resorts in Varanasi are:
- Rivatas by Ideal
- The Gateway Hotel Ganges, Varanasi
- Ramada Plaza JHV, Varanasi
- Radisson Hotel, Varanasi
- Hotel Surya, Kaiser Palace
- Hotel Madin
What are the best public transport modes to commute around Varanasi?
There’s a lot to explore in Varanasi and you definitely wouldn't like to miss any of it. Catering to the needs of every traveller there are a number of ways to commute around Varanasi such as :
- Taxi :Travelling around the city in a hired cab/taxi is generally convenient. Varanasi is the city of temples and ghats, so naturally you would want to visit as many of them as possible. A hired air-conditioned cab/taxi comes in handy during the summers too. There are quite a few car rental agencies in Varanasi and you would have no trouble in hiring a cab.
- On Foot:The streets of Varanasi are best explored on foot. Most of the ghats and temples are quite near to each other, so taking a walk to the temples is not a bad idea.
- Boat:Varanasi is situated on the banks of Ganges. Hence, travelling from one ghat to another on a boat is easy and quite an experience. In fact, it is recommended that you should take at least one boat ride during your stay in Varanasi.
Which are the best places for shopping in Varanasi?
Besides being famous for the ancient temples and River Ganges, Varanasi is also known for its market place. The hand-woven saris are just one aspect of Varanasi shopping.This city has a lot more to offer. Some of the must try places are:
- The Bed SIlk & Pashmina: Step into Bed Silk and Pashmina shop located at Assi Ghat in Varanasi for buying amazing fabrics of all kinds, including cotton, linen, silk and more.
- Baba Black Sheep: You can choose from a wide variety of fabrics where silk is the best among them. Here, beautiful silk sarees, scarves, and pashminas are bought by the shopaholics.
- Harmony Book Shop:The Harmony Book Shop has been a famous destination for book lovers in Varanasi since it opened up in 1996. Located in Assi Ghat, the Harmony Book Shop has become an iconic cultural center in Varanasi.
- Zindagi Jewelery Shop: The Zindagi Jewelry Shop has dazzling items on display all through the year. You will find everything from traditional to modern designs, gold and silver articles and other kinds of knick-knacks and souvenirs.
- Vishwanath Gali : For street shopping in Varanasi, Vishwanath Gali is the place. It is the best place for shopping for all the travelers. The street is always stacked with shopaholics who are enjoying their shopping.
- Aroma Garden: Aroma Garden is like a treasure trove in Varanasi. For a person searching for all the basic amenities at one place, Aroma Garden is the answer to the call. Must-buy items at this place are the natural, handmade incense and fresh, packaged date palms.
Which are the famous pilgrimage destinations in Varanasi?
There is no end to popular pilgrimage points in Varanasi. Here are some of the popular pilgrimage points in Varanasi:
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple
- Ganga Ghats
- Durga Temple
- Gyan Vapi Kup
- Ramnagar Fort
- Sarnath
Where can one enjoy boating in Varanasi?
Boating down the Ganges River during sunrise is one of the main attractions in Varanasi. There are different types of boats for hiring such as manually oared, motored boat, personal boat or shared boat. Boats can be rented at many Ghats such as Dashashwamedh Ghat, Assi Ghat, Meer Ghat, Man Mandir Ghat. The boats are rented on hourly basis and may also be rented as per your requirement.
Which are the famous wildlife sanctuaries in Varanasi?
Known for its diverse flora and fauna Chandra Prabha Wildlife Sanctuary is a perfect destination. Amidst the picturesque Chandauli district in southeastern regions of Uttar Pradesh, nearly 70 kilometers from the city of Varanasi, the sanctuary is a thrilling leap into the wild.
Best Time to Visit:Best time to visit is from July to February but the sanctuary is at its best during and after rainy season.
Timings: 6am-5pm, opens on all days
How to Reach:It is accessible by road and you can easily reach by bus/taxi from Varanasi.
Which are the famous sightseeing places to visit?
Although the city is known for its ghats, temples, and music, there are many other famous places in Varanasi that must be seen and experienced on your Varanasi trip :
- Assi Ghat – A magnet for those seeking spirituality
- Dashashwamedh Ghat – The most vibrant Ghat in town
- Manikarnika Ghat – The prime cremation Ghat in Varanasi
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple – The only Jyotirlinga in Uttar Pradesh
- Tulsi Manas Temple – The place where Ramcharitmanas was written
- Durga Temple – The fabled old world legend
- Gyan Vapi Well – The well of knowledge
- Ramnagar Fort & Museum – The Mughal era fortification
- Chunar Fort – A spooky little rampart
- Sarnath – The famed historical ruin
Where can one witness the Ganga aarti in Varanasi?
Ganga aarti, one of the oldest prayer rituals of Banaras, is a spectacular ceremony in which prayers to river Ganga, who is hailed as a Goddess in Hindu mythology, are carried out. Camphor is lit and 7 priests in a unique dress code offer rhythmic prayer to River Ganga every evening at Dashashwamedh Ghat with huge grandeur.
When: Ganga aarti takes place at 6.45 PM
Where: Dashashwamedh ghat in the Varanasi.
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