About Varanasi
Varanasi, a city in Uttar Pradesh, is filled with rich history and deep spirituality. It’s one of the oldest cities in the world, and many believe it’s a place where gods descend to meditate. With roots in various epics and mythologies, Varanasi holds a special place in Indian culture.
But there’s more to Varanasi than just its ancient and modern temples. The city is alive with unique traditions like the Ganga Aarti, Hindu cremation rituals, and other ceremonies that draw visitors from all over. It’s also a great place for shopping, known for its beautiful silk, wooden crafts, and copper and brass items. Whether you’re visiting for spiritual reasons or to experience India’s vibrant culture, Varanasi has something special to offer.
Best Time to Visit Varanasi
There are two key reasons to visit Varanasi in the winter. First, the weather is comfortable, making it perfect for exploring the city. Winter, which runs from October to March, is also when many religious festivals and events take place, offering a chance to witness special rituals.
On the other hand, summer in Varanasi, from April to May, is the hottest period, with temperatures soaring up to 46°C. This makes it less ideal for a visit, as even the occasional showers don’t do much to ease the heat or humidity.
Monsoon season, from July to September, brings moderate rainfall. Despite the rain, you can still enjoy a few significant religious festivals during this time.
Temples of Varanasi
Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Located in Varanasi, this temple is devoted to Lord Shiva and is considered one of the most sacred sites in Hinduism. It holds deep religious importance for devotees. The present-day temple was constructed in 1780 by Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore, showcasing a stunning golden spire and intricate architectural details.
Kathwala Temple
Also called the Kathwala Mandir, this temple in Varanasi is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The name comes from its distinctive architectural style, with detailed wood carvings (“kath” in Hindi) that decorate the temple walls. These intricate designs give the temple a captivating and unique appearance, making it stand out among other sacred sites in the city.
New Vishwanath Temple
Situated in Varanasi, this modern temple complex is dedicated to Lord Shiva and was built by the Birla family. The temple is renowned for its stunning white marble construction and detailed carvings, offering a serene and spiritual atmosphere. Positioned next to the original Kashi Vishwanath Temple, it draws both devotees and tourists, adding to the city’s rich spiritual heritage.
Durga Temple
Located in Varanasi, the Durga Temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga and is easily recognizable by its striking red facade. Known for its lively religious ceremonies and festive celebrations, the temple is a hub of spiritual activity. The complex also houses idols of other Hindu deities, drawing devotees who come to seek blessings and find peace in its sacred environment.
Tulsi Manas Temple
Situated in Varanasi, this temple is dedicated to Lord Rama and marks the spot where the revered saint and poet Tulsidas is believed to have composed the Ramcharitmanas, an epic poem recounting the life of Lord Rama. The temple’s walls are adorned with scenes from the Ramayana, offering visitors a visual journey through the legendary tale, making it a significant site for both spiritual seekers and admirers of Tulsidas’ work.
Bharat Mata Temple
Located in Varanasi, this one-of-a-kind temple is dedicated to Bharat Mata (Mother India). Instead of housing deities, the temple features a large relief map of undivided India, representing the country’s unity and patriotism. Inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi, it stands as a symbol of national pride and devotion, paying homage to India as a motherland.
Ghats of Varanasi
Dasaswamedh Ghat
Dasaswamedh Ghat, one of the oldest and liveliest ghats in Varanasi, is famous for its vibrant evening aarti (prayer ceremony) dedicated to Lord Shiva and the sacred Ganges River. Pilgrims and visitors flock here to experience the mesmerizing rituals, where the combination of lights, sounds, and devotion creates an unforgettable spiritual atmosphere.
Assi Ghat
Situated at the meeting point of the Ganges and Assi rivers, Assi Ghat is known for its serene and spiritual atmosphere. It holds special significance as the place where the renowned sage Tulsidas is believed to have composed the epic Ramcharitmanas, making it a cherished spot for both pilgrims and those seeking peace and reflection.
Manmandir Ghat
Manmandir Ghat, known for its remarkable architecture, boasts a beautiful palace built by Maharaja Man Singh of Amber. With its intricate design and historic charm, the ghat offers a breathtaking view of the Ganges River, making it a favorite spot for photography and peaceful relaxation.
Manikarnika Ghat
Manikarnika Ghat, one of the oldest and holiest ghats in Varanasi, is renowned for its cremation ceremonies. Hindus believe that being cremated here grants moksha, or liberation from the cycle of rebirth. Many consider it highly auspicious to pass away or have their last rites performed at this sacred ghat, making it a deeply spiritual site.
Harishchandra Ghat
Located next to Manikarnika Ghat, Harishchandra Ghat is another important cremation site in Varanasi. Named after the legendary King Harishchandra, known for his unwavering commitment to truth, this ghat is also considered sacred for performing last rites. Like Manikarnika, it holds deep spiritual significance for those seeking moksha.
Shivala Ghat
Shivala Ghat is renowned for its historic temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, drawing devotees who come to seek blessings and find spiritual peace. The ghat is also a hub for various cultural events and rituals held throughout the year, adding to its vibrant and sacred atmosphere.
Darbhanga Ghat
Darbhanga Ghat is celebrated for its graceful architecture and tranquil environment. It is home to a magnificent palace built by the Maharaja of Darbhanga, adding to its historical charm. The ghat provides a serene setting, making it a peaceful retreat for both devotees and visitors seeking quiet reflection.
Tulsi Ghat
Tulsi Ghat, named after the revered saint-poet Tulsidas, who authored the Ramcharitmanas, is a spiritual hub in Varanasi. The ghat is adorned with temples dedicated to Lord Ram and Hanuman, attracting devotees who come in search of spiritual enlightenment and blessings. It holds deep religious significance and is a peaceful place for reflection and devotion.
Scindia Ghat
Scindia Ghat is famous for its picturesque beauty and the Shiva temple built by the Scindia royal family of Gwalior. Offering stunning views of the Ganges, the ghat is a popular destination for bathing and performing religious rituals, drawing both locals and visitors to its peaceful and sacred setting.
Other important destinations in Varanasi
Rana Mahal
Rana Mahal is a historic palace in Varanasi, celebrated for its detailed architecture and royal legacy. Built by the region’s former rulers, it features a unique fusion of Mughal and Rajput architectural styles. Today, it stands as a museum, offering a glimpse into Varanasi’s rich cultural heritage and history.
Gyanvapi Well
The Gyanvapi Well, located near the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi, is believed to be the original site of the sacred Jyotirlinga (lingam of light) of Lord Shiva, before it was relocated to the present temple. This well holds deep spiritual significance for devotees, who consider it an important part of the area’s religious heritage.
Banaras Hindu University (BHU)
Established in 1916 by Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya, Banaras Hindu University (BHU) is one of India’s leading educational institutions. Situated in Varanasi, it boasts a sprawling campus with numerous colleges, departments, and research centers. BHU is celebrated for its academic excellence across diverse fields and holds a prominent place in India’s educational and cultural landscape.
Ramnagar Fort
Perched on the eastern bank of the Ganges River in Varanasi, Ramnagar Fort is an 18th-century fort built by the Maharaja of Varanasi. The fort displays a stunning mix of Mughal and Rajput architectural styles and is home to a museum that features a collection of vintage cars, royal artifacts, and ancient weaponry, offering a glimpse into the region’s royal heritage.
Shopping in Varanasi
Within the park, several shops offer a range of unique souvenirs, many of which are crafted by local tribes, adding an authentic touch to your keepsakes. Notable stores include Dastkar, Dhonk, and Anokhi. Dastkar showcases traditional crafts and textiles, Dhonk specializes in eco-friendly products made by local artisans, and Anokhi is famous for its exquisite block-printed fabrics. Shopping at these stores not only gives you distinctive items like handcrafted jewelry, textiles, and decorative pieces but also helps support the local community.
Popular Handicrafts to Purchase from These Shops
Peeli Kothi: Famous for its stunning Benaras silk and intricately designed sarees, Peeli Kothi is a must-visit for anyone looking to add luxurious textiles to their wardrobe. The store also offers a range of high-quality fabrics, making it a perfect spot for lovers of fine materials.
Thatheri Bazaar: A vibrant market specializing in Benaras silk garments, Thatheri Bazaar offers an array of clothing options, from sarees to other traditional attire. It’s a great place to explore the richness of Benaras silk and find beautiful, handcrafted garments.
Gai Ghat: Known for its intricate Minakari work, Gai Ghat is a gem for those seeking accessories adorned with semi-precious stones. The area also offers various metal articles, making it an ideal spot for picking up unique, beautifully crafted items.
Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple: Besides its spiritual importance, the temple’s surrounding area is known for its charming wooden toys and woodcraft. It’s also a great place to indulge in street food, offering a delightful blend of local flavors and crafts.
Vishwanath Gali: Famous for its brassware and deity statues, Vishwanath Gali is a treasure trove for souvenir shoppers. In addition to brass items, you’ll find wooden toys and other memorable keepsakes, making it a perfect place for gifts and collectibles.
Luxury and Spirituality on the Deccan Odyssey to Varanasi
Start your spiritual journey to Varanasi aboard the Deccan Odyssey’s Cultural Odyssey, one of India’s finest luxury trains. Varanasi, the ancient city by the Ganges, offers a deep connection to sacred rituals and a vibrant cultural atmosphere. The Deccan Odyssey’s Cultural Odyssey provides a perfect blend of traditional charm and modern comfort, ensuring a smooth and luxurious travel experience. As you journey to Varanasi, explore the spiritual core of India, witness the captivating Ganga Aarti, stroll through the historic ghats, and immerse yourself in the city’s rich heritage. This extraordinary journey lets you experience Varanasi’s spiritual essence while enjoying top-notch amenities and personalized service aboard the Deccan Odyssey.
