Considered the oldest city in India, Varanasi is the land of temples and the city of Lord Shiva. The waters of the holy River Ganga receive many devotes coming here to experience the city’s spiritual chaos.
Varanasi, a city that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity, offers a unique experience. The city caters to all tastes, from contemporary cafes to pure vegetarian dhabas and traditional shopping for rudraksha beads to delicate silks.
As one of the most glorious cities of India, Varanasi offers much more than spiritual charm and is as much a destination to explore.
To help you finalize the decision to experience Varanasi, we bring you some of the best reasons to visit Varanasi.
Temples and spirituality
Varanasi has hundreds of temples in the city, with a historical background and religious values.
Some of them date back to 500-1000 years. Among several others, Sankat Mochan temples and Kashi Vishwanath are the most admired and visited by the devotees.
Moreover, Yoga is deeply rooted in the city’s culture, and one can easily explore various yoga centres or teachers for an authentic yoga experience.
Dashashwamedh Aarti
Located on the banks of the Ganges, Dashashwamedh is one of the most pious Ghats that mesmerizes travellers with its charm.
The place becomes more charming and lively during the Ganga Aarti being organized here daily.
The setting, glowing with aartis, is nothing but gripping. One can enjoy this extravagant event on a boat in the river, making it an unforgettable experience.
Diverse cuisine and shopping
Varanasi brings a variety of eateries and shopping places. After visiting the religious places, the second most important thing to do is to explore the material riches in the form of hand-knotted carpets, Banarasi saris and fine woodwork at the major shopping centres such as Godowlia and Vishwanath Gali.
The city of Varanasi offers diverse delicacies from all over the world, and for a much local experience, one can go local and tuck into the most delicious street food. Don’t miss Kachori Gali.
It also has many good restaurants along the river Ganga, where one can enjoy the food while watching the stunning river and the sun settling around it.
History and Forts
Varanasi, a city steeped in history, is considered India’s oldest city. It is home to the Ramnagar Fort, a significant historical monument located on the eastern bank of the Ganges.
The structure was made for the Maharaja of Banaras; the monument has a museum of vintage cars, weaponry, royal swords, ivory relics and other historic items.
Constructed during the reign of Babar, Chunar Fort is about 40km from Varanasi, which has been the home of the famous Warren Hastings, the first governor-general of India.
Music
Varanasi, a city that reverberates with music, is home to legendary maestros like Ustad Bismillah Khan and Ravi Shankar. The city’s streets are alive with the sound of music, boasting several music schools for those eager to learn an instrument.
After religion, it is music that flows through the streets of Varanasi. With such a musical connection, the place has several music schools where one can easily learn any instrument.
For the finest, indulge yourself in listening to the classical music concert at the Music Paradise Hall and dance to the rhythm of Flute and sarod.
Sarnath
Sited 10km from Varanasi, Sarnath’s holy place is where Gautama Buddha first discourses to his followers after attaining enlightenment.
The grounds of Sarnath house several ancient monuments and stupas displaying the Buddhist tradition.
The destination is beautifully structured, with the historical Dhamek Stupa as the primary attraction. Even today, the significance of the destination is still alive.
Assi Ghat
This is another Ghat located in Varanasi. The place is famous for organizing a huge Aarti on the side of the river Ganga, where people from all over the world come and indulge in the activity with great enthusiasm. It also has several restaurants offering splendid sights of the river Ganga.
Calming Boat Rides
A boat ride along the River Ganga’s sides is a must-do activity while exploring the city of Varanasi. The calm water of Ganga gives you much-needed much-needed peace and the perfect view of the culturally colourful Ghats.
Boat rides are possible at sunset and sunrise for the majestic sights of the pooja and the religious ceremonies.
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