Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Banaras, is a city unlike any other in the world. Nestled on the banks of the sacred River Ganges in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, Varanasi is the spiritual heart of India and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. In this immersive travel blog, we will embark on a spiritual journey through the top 10 must-visit places in Varanasi while providing detailed insights on how to get there.
1. Kashi Vishwanath Temple: The Spiritual Epicenter
Our journey begins at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva.
How to Get There: The temple is located in the heart of Varanasi, near the Dashashwamedh Ghat. You can reach it by taxi, auto-rickshaw, or cycle rickshaw. The temple is easily accessible from various parts of the city.
What to Expect: Witness the temple’s grandeur, participate in the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti, and seek blessings from Lord Shiva. The temple’s gold-plated spire is a sight to behold.
2. Ghats of Varanasi: The Soul of the City
Our next destination is the famous Ghats of Varanasi, a series of steps leading down to the Ganges River.
How to Get There: The Ghats stretch along the Ganges, and you can explore them on foot. You can also take a boat ride to experience the Ghats from the river.
What to Expect: Immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere, witness various rituals, and take a boat ride during sunrise or sunset for a breathtaking view of the Ghats.
3. Sarnath: The Birthplace of Buddhism
Our journey takes us to Sarnath, a nearby city where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon.
How to Get There: Sarnath is located about 13 kilometers from Varanasi. You can hire a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or take a local bus to reach this historical site.
What to Expect: Explore the ancient ruins, visit the Dhamek Stupa, and the Sarnath Museum to learn about the history of Buddhism. Sarnath is a place of peace and reflection.
4. Durga Temple: The Goddess’s Abode
Our next destination is the Durga Temple, a vibrant and unique temple dedicated to Goddess Durga.
How to Get There: The Durga Temple is situated in the heart of Varanasi. You can reach it by taxi, auto-rickshaw, or cycle rickshaw.
What to Expect: Marvel at the red-colored temple, admire the idol of Goddess Durga, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this sacred place.
5. Assi Ghat: A Place for Meditation
Our journey takes us to Assi Ghat, one of the southernmost Ghats in Varanasi, known for its peaceful ambiance.
How to Get There: Assi Ghat is within the city and can be reached by taxi, auto-rickshaw, or cycle rickshaw.
What to Expect: Enjoy a serene and less crowded Ghat, participate in yoga and meditation sessions, and witness the floating lamps during the evening Aarti.
6. Banaras Hindu University (BHU): A Center of Learning
Our next destination is the Banaras Hindu University, one of the largest residential universities in Asia.
How to Get There: BHU is situated in Varanasi, and you can reach it by taxi, auto-rickshaw, or cycle rickshaw.
What to Expect: Explore the sprawling campus, visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, and admire the grand architecture of the Vishwanath Temple within the university.
7. Ramnagar Fort: A Historical Gem
Our journey takes us to Ramnagar Fort, a grand fort located on the eastern bank of the Ganges.
How to Get There: Ramnagar Fort is on the other side of the Ganges, and you can reach it by taking a boat from the Ghats or by using a local ferry.
What to Expect: Explore the fort’s museum, which houses vintage cars, royal collections, and weapons. Don’t miss the daily evening Aarti at the fort.
8. Manikarnika Ghat: The Sacred Cremation Ground
Our next destination is Manikarnika Ghat, one of the most important and sacred cremation Ghats in Varanasi.
How to Get There: Manikarnika Ghat is located in the heart of Varanasi and can be reached on foot or by taking a boat ride along the Ganges.
What to Expect: While it might seem unusual to visit a cremation site, witnessing the rituals at Manikarnika Ghat is a profound and humbling experience, offering a glimpse into the cycle of life and death in Hinduism.
9. Tulsi Manas Temple: A Literary Gem
Our journey takes a literary turn with a visit to the Tulsi Manas Temple, dedicated to Lord Rama.
How to Get There: The Tulsi Manas Temple is located within Varanasi and can be reached by taxi, auto-rickshaw, or cycle rickshaw.
What to Expect: Admire the temple’s beautiful white marble structure, and explore the walls adorned with verses from the Ramcharitmanas, an epic poem by Tulsidas.
10. Bharat Mata Temple: Saluting Mother India
Our final destination is the Bharat Mata Temple, a unique temple dedicated to Mother India.
How to Get There: The Bharat Mata Temple is situated in Varanasi and is easily accessible by taxi, auto-rickshaw, or cycle rickshaw.
What to Expect: Marvel at the relief map of undivided India, displayed in the temple, and pay homage to the concept of a united and diverse India.
Varanasi, the spiritual capital of India, is a city that resonates with the rhythms of devotion, tradition, and spirituality. Each of these top 10 places offers a unique facet of Varanasi’s rich cultural heritage and deep spiritual significance.
So, pack your bags, embark on this incredible journey, and let Varanasi’s timeless aura and spiritual energy envelop your soul. Varanasi is not just a destination; it’s a spiritual awakening that will stay with you forever.
