Discover the best things to do in Varanasi, an ancient city of kings, scholars and spirituality.
Varanasi, also known as Kashi and Banaras is a world within a world. The spiritual capital of India is one of the oldest cities living on earth. It gives residence to 12 Lakh of people and draws thousands of travellers every day. Within every ten steps, you will find a temple embellished with flowers and sacred incense sticks. Colours and spirituality define Kashi at its best.
While many come to Banaras for the salvation of their sins, others come to explore the enchanting culture of this beautiful destination.
The city is diverse with multicultural ethos and colours. It makes it difficult to explore Varanasi in a limited time period. So, we have filtered out the best things to do in Varanasi to make your trip happen as never before.
- Take a Holy Bath In Gange
Varanasi resides on the bank of the holy river Ganga. In Hinduism, Ganga is considered sacred and symbolized as Goddess Ganga. Varanasi has 88 Ghats. It is believed that taking a bath in the sacred water of river absolve sins and lead the way to attain moksha.
It is considered lucky to bathe in five ghats of Varanasi. You have to follow an order to do so. First, you bathe in Assi Ghat where Ganga river meets river Assi. Then Dasaswamedh Ghat known for being the holiest and oldest in the city. Thirdly Ghat by the Adi Keshava Temple near the Varuna River and then Panch-Ganga, as the name suggests five rivers merge here. Lastly Manikarnika, the majority of the dead bodies are cremated here.
- Explore the Temples
After taking bath at these five places, most pilgrims go for darshan of Vishwanath, Annapurna, and Sakshi Vinayaka temple.
Kashi Vishwanath Temple has situated on the western banks of river Ganga. The Puranas also mention this ancient Shiva temple. Scholars say that Lord Shiva appeared here in the form of light.
Another temple which is must visit is Annapurna. It is located near to Vishwanath Temple. Maa Annapurna is a benevolent provider of food and nourishment. This picturesque temple was built by Maratha Peshwa Baji Rao in the 17th century. It is believed that a visit here will keep you away from running short of food and nourishment in life.
The ancient city has a temple in every nook and corner. Make sure you visit the popular ones to feel the essence.
Get the Taste of Street Food
While you walk down the lanes of Varanasi all dwelled up in spirituality, don't forget to try some mouth-watering street food. Hot crispy kachori and samosa of Banaras are must-try. A dessert called Makhan Malaiyyo melts in the mouth with savouring flavours of milk, saffron, almonds and pistachios.Visit Sarnath
In the 3rd century BC, King Ashoka constructed stupas and monasteries in Sarnath. Buddha visited Sarnath and first taught Dharma after achieving salvation in Bodhgaya. The town is very peaceful with several Buddhist structures around.Shopping in Varanasi
Varanasi is also a city of handicrafts and art. It is best known for its Banarasi Silk Sari. Peelikothi an area in Varanasi and shops in Thateri Market are few of the places to get yourself a sari.
Gulabi Meenakari is the hidden talent of Kashi. It is an old form of art in which metal is decorated with coloured enamel. You can meet the craftsman working on this art at bylanes near Gai Ghat.Get Yourself Close to Indic Literature
Varanasi has been the city of Hindu learning through the ages. It has been visited by many scholars. The city is home to the millions of books related to Hinduism and ideology. If you are a reader then you'll definitely end up with a bag full of books.Take a Boat Ride
You cannon fully experience without rowing a boat in the Ganga. The ride along Ganga River offers an exceptional view of the city. It takes one through different Ghats and former palaces situated close to the banks of Ganga. The best time to take a boat is either in the morning or evening when sunrise or melts in the sky.
- Experience Ganga Aarti
Every day when dusk descends, thousands gather to preach the Ganga. The ghats are lit with oil lamps and the river is embellished with flowers. Daswamedha Ghat is where you can witness this beautiful sight.
The Aarti ceremony is performed every night and a 45-minute ritual is held for the same. The usual time it is 6: 45 in the evening.
Varanasi is once in a lifetime cultural experience. So pack your bags right away and book a pleasant stay with us.