Varanasi, the religious home of India, is situated in the state of Uttar Pradesh. It is the holiest city of India and is located on the banks of River Ganga. It gets its name from two water bodies – Varuna and Asi, between which it is located. These waterbodies are the tributaries of the River Ganga itself. This city has a very rich mythological past which just adds to the spiritual element associated with it.Also known as Benaras, it is believed that Varanasi was founded by Lord Shiva himself.
While Varanasi is not a typical holiday destination, it is still visited by a very large number of people seeking to fulfill their religious wishes. This makes it a very crowded place all throughout the year. So, for anyone who is tired of visiting hill stations or wants to spend sometime in the lap of God, Varanasi is the place to be.
How to Get There
Varanasi is one of the most well-known and most visited cities of India. Hence it is no surprise that this city is very well connected to all parts of India. It has a very busy airport which is a stop for flights from all the major city of India.Trains are another popular method of reaching Varanasi. However, for people living in places like Lucknow, Allahabad and other neighbouring places, a road trip is a great comfortable way to reach this city. Also, for those staying in places like Delhi, since it is a 10 hour journey, taking a stop in between is always a good idea.
Best time to Enjoy Varanasi
Being located in the plains of North India, Varanasi experiences a typical subtropical climate. There is a great variation in temperatures during summers and winters. It often gets unbearably hot during the months of May and June. During winters, there is a large drop in temperature and it is really chilly. Hence, the best months to enjoy Varanasi are August to November and February to April.
What to Do
Varanasi has a plethora of sites for people following all kinds of religions. Every place has something beautiful and unique to offer, which greatly adds to the experience. Here is a list of places that every traveler must see on their trip to Varanasi.
1. Temples of Varanasi – The temples in Varanasi are what make it the religious capital of India. Hence, it is no surprise that multiple, very elaborate temples are spread all throughout this town. There are different temples for various Gods worshipped by the Hindus. Many of these temples have something prominent, unique and attractive which makes it impossible to not pay them a visit. Out of a never ending list of temples, the ones that are mandatory to be paid a visit are – Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Sankat Mochan Temple and Durga Mandir. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is the most famous temple of Varanasi and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva is said to be the presiding God over this city. On the other hand, Sankat Mochan is for the devotees of Lord Hanuman and is famous for the large band of monkeys in the temple vicinity.
2. Sarnath – Located at 13 kilometers from the main city, this is the place where Lord Buddha first visited after enlightenment. It has many temples built by different Asian countries that have Buddhist influence. Also, Sarnath offers a very peaceful and calm get away from the very populated main city area of Varanasi. It is a must visit for anyone interested in history and mythology.
3. Ramnagar Fort – This fort is located on the eastern banks of the Ganga, opposite the Tulsi Ghat of the main city. It was built in the 18th century and has since served as the residence of the various kings of Benaras. Even now, despite democracy prevailing, the royal family of Varanasi resides in it. The Fort has a great Mughal style architecture and a very appealing museum. It has many different kinds of jewels, weapons and vintage cars.
4. Ghats – One of the most recognizable and prominent feature of Varanasi are the Ghats. They are long steps built on the banks of the river Ganga which passes through the city. These Ghats are famous for all kinds of rituals. While some of them have aartis performed on them, others are considered the holiest cremation grounds. All the ghats are located close to each other. The most famous ones are Dassashwamedha Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat and Assi Ghat. Visiting these is a must for all. It is said that taking dips in the river near these Ghats cleanses a person of all his sins.
5. Gyanvapi Mosque – This mosque was built by the great Aurangzeb when he took over the city during his reign. This mosque is situated right in the heart of the city and is characterized by high minarets. Aurangzeb built this mosque after destroying the original Kashi Vishwanath Temple at the same site. As a result, this mosque has been in many controversies. Parts of the temple can be still be seen within the walls of this mosque.
6. Explore more – Varanasi is situated close to a lot of other places that are also worth visiting. Of these, Agra and Gaya are the most prominent ones. So, planning your itinerary accordingly would be a great idea.
Varanasi Specialities
1. Shopping – Varanasi is famous all over the world for its silk products Hence, any and everyone who comes to this city, leaves with silk of some form with them. Be it sarees, shawls or scarfs, Varanasi silk is of supreme quality. All these clothes are handmade, which makes them even more beautiful. Also, they are available in a wide variety which is bound to leave you spoilt for choice.
2. Eating – Benaras is very famus for its food. Some of the local dishes are famous all over the world. Like any North Indian city, the ‘chaat’ here is very delicious. Also, Dum Aloo of Varanasi is a real delight. It is also famous for its desserts and ‘paan’, which is a betel nut mixture. Benarasi Paan is known and loved by people all over India.
3. Festivals – Since it is a spiritual home, festivities are invariably very elaborate in Varanasi. Hindu festival celebrations like those of Mahashivratri (to worship Lord Shiva), Hanuman Jayanti and Diwali attract tons of people every year. Other occasions like Buddh Purnima and Eid are also celebrated iin great spirits by the people.
For anyone looking to fulfil their spiritual wishes, Varanasi is the home of all Gods. It offers a great opportunity to remember the Almighty and find some peace and calm within oneself. Thus, it is a must-visit place for anyone looking for or already having strong religious values.
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