Varanasi - The Spiritual Capital of India!
Varanasi is a city in India, situated on the banks of the holy River Ganga. It is a place where old traditions, religious fervor, and vibrant energy come together like nowhere else. Varanasi has a past that goes back more than thousand years. It is a city full of legends and mythological stories. In Varanasi, faith, history, and culture all blend together. Varanasi is one of the holiest places for Hindus, and it is full of ancient holy temples. As you walk down its small, winding streets, you’ll feel like you’ve gone back in time. Witnessing the daily ceremonies and rituals, vibrations of prayers and chants that have been going on for hundreds of years, will make you lost in the spiritual atmosphere that fills every part of this mysterious city.
Ganga Aarti
Ganga Aarti in Varanasi is an incredible spectacle that captivates visitors with its grandeur and spiritual significance. It takes place every evening at the famous Dashashwamedh Ghat. The aarti is a devotional ritual performed by a group of pandits (priests) who offer prayers, music, and incense to the river. As the sun sets and darkness envelops the surroundings, the ghats come alive with the sound of hymns and the mesmerizing sight of flickering lamps. The atmosphere during the Ganga aarti is incredibly serene and spiritual. The sight of hundreds of lamps illuminating the river creates a magical experience which leaves a lasting impression on all who witness it.
Kashi Vishwanath Temple
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, located in Varanasi, is one of the holiest and most revered temples in India. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva as Vishwanath or “the ruler of the universe” and is one of the twelve Jyotirlinga. The temple is also known as the Golden Temple due to its golden domes that shines brightly against the sky. Millions of believers and pilgrims from all over the world come to this temple to offer prayers and take blessings. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple holds immense cultural and religious significance and is a must-visit for any spiritual seeker or devotee of Lord Shiva.
Subah-e-Banaras: The Alluring View
Subah-e-Banaras, also known as the Morning Ganga Aarti, is an awe-inspiring ritual that takes place at the Assi ghat in Varanasi. This daily ritual is a celebration of the river goddess Ganga and is an integral part of the religious and cultural heritage of this ancient city. The event begins before sunrise, as the first rays illuminate the river and the magical city of Varanasi. Subah-e-Banaras is a truly extraordinary experience that not only allows one to connect with their spirituality but also immerses them in the rich cultural heritage of Varanasi. It is a visual feast for the senses that leaves a deep and lasting impression on all those fortunate enough to witness it.
Sarnath–The Place of Buddha’s First Updesh
Sarnath is a small town located in the city of Varanasi. Sarnath holds great significance for Buddhists as it is believed to be the place where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. Apart from its religious importance, Sarnath also has a rich historical and archaeological significance. Visitors can explore various Buddhist structures such as the Dhamek Stupa, the Mulagandhakuti Vihara, deer park, Archaeological Museum, and many more at Sarnath. Sarnath attracts visitors not just for its historical and religious significance but also for its peaceful atmosphere, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking spiritual enlightenment or simply a peaceful retreat.
Places to Visit
Varanasi is one of India's holiest cities and has been around for a long time. It is famous for its religious and cultural significance, making it a must-visit destination for tourists. There are a lot of old temples, beautiful ghats, museums, and historical sites in the city. But Varanasi is more than just spirituality. It is also a centre for art, literature, and vibrant culture. Varanasi is a sensory delight - from the aroma of incense and flowers to the tantalizing flavors of street food. The lanes of Varanasi are filled with vibrant activities, small shops, and numerous cultural festivals throughout the year. So, come and explore the timeless charm and experience the magic that has attracted pilgrims, seekers, and wanderers for centuries.
Ghats
Varanasi is famous for its ghats along the banks of the River Ganga. There are more than 80 ghats in Varanasi each with their own historical and spiritual significance. These ghats are used for various religious ceremonies, bathing rituals, and cremations. Every day, thousands of people come to the banks of the Ganga in Varanasi to pray and wash their sin.
Temples
Varanasi is dotted with numerous temples that are considered sacred by Hindus. It is known as the City of Temples due to the presence of over 3,000 religious temples around the city. These temples attract thousands of devotees and tourists who come to seek blessings and experience the spiritual aura of Varanasi.
Museums
Varanasi, revered by Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains, is one of the world's oldest inhabited cities. The city is also home to numerous museums that showcase the rich cultural and artistic heritage of Varanasi, including the Bharat Kala Bhawan, Archaeological Museum at Sarnath, Ramnagar Fort, etc.
Things to Do in Varanasi
Varanasi has various attractions that will make you want to extend your stay indefinitely. It offers a plethora of activities and experiences for tourists. With its unique and incredible experiences, creates an unforgettable journey that immerses you in the rich culture and spirituality of this ancient city.
Bathe
One of the most popular activities is taking a dip in the holy Ganges river. The ghats are crowded with pilgrims and devotees who believe that bathing in the river cleanses their sins. The Assi Ghat and Dashashwamedh Ghat are amongst the most visited spots to take a holy dip. While bathing, one can also witness the mesmerizing aarti, offered to the Goddess Ganga, creating a breath taking atmosphere.
Boat rides
Boat rides along the Ganges are another must-do activity in Varanasi. These boat rides provide a unique perspective of the city, allowing visitors to witness the bustling ghats, amazing sunrise and sunset views. A boat ride also brings you closer to the numerous temples that line the river. It is a surreal experience to sail through the sacred waters while the city comes alive with prayers and chants.
Street and Ghats Walk
Exploring the narrow and winding streets of Varanasi is an amazing experience in itself. The street and ghats walk takes you through the vibrant markets, where you can marvel at the exquisite handicrafts, textiles, and jewelry that Varanasi is renowned for. The bustling chaos and colorful shops create an immersive experience that captures the essence of the city.
Eating
Varanasi is a food lover’s paradise, offering a plethora of mouthwatering delicacies. Try some of the delicious Banarasi street food like kachori sabzi, jalebi, and chaat. The city is also famous for its lassi, thandai, and a variety of sweets like malaiyo and rabri. A visit to Varanasi would be incomplete without relishing these culinary delights and exploring the local street foods.
Banarasi Paan
No visit to Varanasi would be complete without trying the famous Banarasi paan. The city is renowned for its paan stalls, which offer a myriad of flavors and ingredients, including saffron, rose petals, and various delicious mixtures. Trying a Banarasi paan is not only a delightful sensory experience, but it also gives you a taste of the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Shopping
Shopping in Varanasi is a delight for all shopaholics. The city is known for its beautiful silk sarees, especially the famous Banarasi sarees. Intricately woven with gold and silver threads, these sarees are a symbol of elegance and luxury. Walk through the bustling markets and explore the shops that offer a wide range of textiles, brassware, wooden toys, and exquisite handmade jewellery.
Varanasi Photo
Take a look at some pretty pictures captured in Varanasi
Land of Legends
Varanasi, also known as Kashi, is a city in northern India famous for being the spiritual and cultural capital of the country. With a rich history and vibrant traditions, Varanasi has been a site of countless legends and mythological tales. It has been the birthplace of many legendary figures that have made significant contributions to the fields of literature, spirituality, and social reform. These legends continue to inspire generations and remain an integral part of the city’s cultural fabric. The legends and tales are associated with the city, making it a hotspot for spiritual seekers and pilgrims.
Munshi Premchand
Writer
Bhartendu Harishchandra
Poet
Dr. Hajari Prasad Dwivedi
Novelist
Acharya Pandit Ramchandra Shukla
Writer
Bismillah Khan
Musician
Pandit Ravishanker
Sitarist
Smt. Sitara Devi
Classical Dancer
Pandit Kishan Maharaj
Musician
Rani Lakshmibai
Fighter
Annie Besant
Activist
Lal Bahadur Shastri
Former Prime Minister of India
Madan Mohan Malaviya
Educator
Center of Institutions
Varanasi is known for its rich cultural heritage, religious significance, and educational institutions. The city is also a hub of knowledge and learning, with many renowned institutions. With its vibrant academic atmosphere and numerous institutions, Varanasi has become a hub for education in North India.
Banaras Hindu University
The city is home to one of the largest residential universities in Asia “Banaras Hindu University”, offers a wide range of educational facilities. BHU is the biggest campus-based university in Asia. There are more than 30,000 students there, and 18,000 of them live on campus.
Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapith University
The university is linked to more than 400 schools in six different districts. It is one of the biggest state universities in Uttar Pradesh, and it has students from both rural and urban areas in the hundreds of thousands.
Sampurnanand Sanskrit University
India’s Sampurnanand Sanskrit Vishwavidyalaya is a university with more than 600 schools and colleges. It is an Indian university and college in the city of Varanasi in the state of Uttar Pradesh. It is one of the world’s biggest Sanskrit colleges.
Central Institute of Higher Tibetan Studies
The Central Institute of Higher Tibetan Studies (CIHTS), is in Sarnath, Varanasi. Students come to the university from Tibetan communities in India, especially in the Himalayan areas. It is a college with a focus on Buddhist and Tibetan subjects.
Parliamentary Constituency of Prime Minister of India, Hon'ble Narendra Modi
Varanasi is the Parliamentary Constituency of Prime Minister of India,Hon’ble Narendra Modi
Quotes on Varanasi by Legends
In this land of the Ganga (Varanasi), there was education of culture. But, more importantly, there was a culture of education.
Enlightenment, and the death which comes before it, is the primary business of Varanasi.
Visit Varanasi
Experience the Varanasi!
हर हर महादेव!
Varanasi welcomes you with open arms, ready to leave a permanent imprint on your heart and soul.