The existence of the city of Varanasi in India is one of the evidence that shows the antiquity of the world living cities, being locally known as Benaras or Kashi. Sitting banks of the spiritual holy river Ganga in the state of Uttar Pradesh, Varanasi popularly known as Banaras city is believed to be the epitome of Indian spirituality. Thronged with mysterious lanes, ghats, antiquated temples, look for the Hotel India Varanasi located in the holy city of Varanasi, offering comfortable rooms with views of the sacred Ganges River. So, let us see the places one by one.
Assi Ghat
Assi Ghat is the southernmost ghat and a sacra linked place of pilgrimage. This ghat epitomizes the Nicholas jagat because it lays as the merging point between the river called Asi and the river Ganga. Adherents assemble here to pray and commune spiritually prior to the sacred return of soul to the confluence or sangam. Deriving from southern tip of the town to the confluence point, Assi ghat continues to be spread.
In the morning and the evening hours daily routines of this ghat include time of the day when the religious hymns and bells ring at the temples, when the sadhus take sughandis under shady trees, and when priests perform rituals and aartis respectively. It is a great place to not only regard the fabulous ceremonies and emotional values of Ganga but also experience the pure joy of spending your free time by the Ganges.
Dashashwamedh Ghat
Dashashwamedh Ghat is the main and busiest ghat of Varanasi located close to Vishwanath Temple. ‘Dasha’ means ten and ‘Ashwamedh’ means horse sacrifice. It is believed that Lord Brahma created this ghat to welcome Lord Shiva and performed ten Ashwamedha sacrifices here.
Morning and evening aartis are performed daily with bells, drums, chants, flower offerings, and diyas floated on the river. It’s mesmerizing to watch the illuminated floating diyas from the steps of the ghat against the dark waters of Ganga. You can also take a boat ride from this ghat for an evening or sunrise river tour.
Kashi Vishwanath Temple
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, located in the heart of Varanasi near the Ghats, is one of the most sacred shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. The original temple was destroyed by Mughal emperor Aurangzeb and the mosque Gyanvapi mosque was built over it. The present temple was built in 1780 by Maratha monarch, Ahilya Bai Holkar of Indore.
The temple has towering spires plated with 800 kg of gold. The Shiva lingam is the main deity that devotees come to pray to. Only Hindus are allowed inside to perform puja and aarti. The temple complex always buzzes with energy and devotion.
Sarnath
Located just 10 km from Varanasi, Sarnath is one of the major Buddhist pilgrimage centers in the world. It is here that Gautama Buddha first preached the Dharma after achieving enlightenment in Bodh Gaya. The major attraction is the iconic Dhamek Stupa that marks the sacred spot of Buddha’s first sermon.
Other major monuments are the Sarnath Archaeological Museum which houses Buddha relics and Chaukhandi Stupa. Sarnath is the perfect place to understand Buddha’s journey and evolution of Buddhism after he attained Nirvana.
Bharat Mata Mandir
Unique from other temples, Bharat Mata Mandir is dedicated to Mother India and houses a relief map of undivided India carved from marble. Instead of traditional Gods’ idols, this temple has a huge 8m relief map showing major rivers, mountains, plains and oceans. It was inaugurated in 1936 by Mahatma Gandhi.
The purpose behind this temple was to instil a sense of patriotism and unite a fragmented country. It still fills visitors with a sense of national pride and unity toward’s India’s diversity and geography.
Manikarnika Ghat
Manikarnika Ghat, also called Mahasmasana, is the main cremation ghat in Varanasi and one of the oldest ghats. Hindus believe cremation here provides moksha or liberation from the cycle of life and death. funeral pyres are lit here from morning till night. Only family members are allowed to accompany the body to the cremation site near the river edge.
While not everyone’s cup of tea, it provides a deeper understanding into the rituals associated with death and the belief in life after death. The activities here elicit feelings of mourning and loss but also hope.
Ramnagar Fort
Located on the northeastern fringe of Varanasi, Ramnagar Fort was built in 1750 by Maharaja Balwant Singh. This old fort on the Ganges provides magnificent views of the river and ghats. Within the fort’s precincts is the royal residence of the Maharaja, a temple and a museum displaying vintage cars, palanquins, costumes and more.
Watching the sunset over the Ganges from the fort terrace is a highlight. The fort area comes alive each October with festivals, fairs, cultural events, and wrestling matches.
Chunar Fort
Just 42 km from Varanasi lies the 16th century Chunar Fort perched on a rocky cliff above the Ganges. This was a strategic fort built to protect Varanasi and access to the Ganga waterway. Despite being in ruins, its impressive locations offers panoramic views and interesting architecture like Sher Shah Suri Gateway, Raja Bhartrihari’s cave and more.
The serene surroundings overlooking the Ganga are worth exploring. The fort complex has temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, Ashoka pillar and Vikramaditya’s throne. Perfect for a quick historic getaway from Varanasi.
Ganga Aarti
The Ganga Aarti is a spectacular ceremony conducted daily at Dashashwamedh Ghat as the sunset. As dusk settles, chants and bells fill the air, diyas are lit and an extravagant display of aarti rituals is performed by priests on a stage facing the river. Devotees gather to watch the ceremony and offer their prayers.
Watching the glowing diyas float and illuminate the Ganga along with the charged ambiance is truly magical. It encapsulates Varanasi’s mystical charm and spirituality. Do ensure you get a good spot well in advance to enjoy the aarti.
Banaras Hindu University
Founded in 1916 by Madan Mohan Malviya, Banaras Hindu University (BHU) is one of the largest residential universities in Asia. Spread over 1300 acres, the university has a near self-sufficient campus with lush gardens, temples, museums, libraries, auditoriums, hospitals and more.
Do take a tour around this green campus to admire the architecture and campus life. Major attractions are the huge Vishwanath temple, the idol of Bharat Mata at amphitheatre and the archaeological museum with ancient sculptures and paintings.
Conclusion
Varanasi’s incredible history spanning over 2000 years, sacred Ganga ghats, soul-stirring spirituality and colourful rituals make it a destination like no other in India. The holy city leaves a profound impact with its ability to make one contemplative. From taking a dip in the Ganga to exploring historical ruins and capturing the magnificent Ganga Aarti, Varanasi offers a truly enriching trip. The next time you plan a holiday in North India, be sure to visit a budget hotel India Varanasi near the ghats of Varanasi, India provided comfortable lodging for taking and enjoying the colorful sights of this the glorious city of temples, ghats and sadhus.
