Ancient city on the Ganges River, sacred to Hindus. Known for religious ceremonies, riverside ghats, and spiritual significance. A place of pilgrimage and cultural richness.
Varanasi, one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities, sits on the banks of the Ganges River in northern India. This ancient city draws millions of pilgrims and visitors each year with its spiritual atmosphere and traditional practices. You can watch the Ganga Aarti ceremony, visit centuries-old temples like Kashi Vishwanath, and taste local dishes such as kachori sabzi while experiencing Varanasi's culture.
The Ganges River and Its Ghats
The Ganges River is central to life in Varanasi, with over 80 ghats lining its western bank. These stone steps lead down to the water, each with its own history and purpose. At dawn, you'll see pilgrims taking ritual baths in the river. The Dashashwamedh Ghat, known for its nightly Ganga Aarti ceremony, fills with people as priests perform rituals with fire and incense.
Exploring the Old City
Walk through the narrow alleys of Varanasi's Old City, where lanes wind between ancient buildings and busy markets. You'll encounter a variety of sights, sounds, and smells. The area around Godowlia Chowk has shops selling colorful textiles and aromatic spices. As you wander, you might find hidden shrines or observe everyday life in this historic city.
Spiritual Sites and Temples
Varanasi holds great importance for Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a key site in Hinduism. Non-Hindus can see the temple's golden spires from outside. The Durga Temple, with its red color and resident monkeys, offers an interesting visit. To learn about tantric Hinduism, consider visiting the Aghor Ashram.
Boat Rides and Ceremonies
Take a boat ride on the Ganges for a different view of Varanasi. Early morning trips let you see the city wake up as the sun rises over the river. In the evening, you can watch the Ganga Aarti ceremony from the water, seeing hundreds of oil lamps light up the ghats. Some tours pass by the burning ghats, where cremation ceremonies happen throughout the day and night.
Sarnath: Buddhist Connections
Sarnath, located 10 kilometers northeast of Varanasi, is where Buddha gave his first sermon after achieving enlightenment. The Dhamek Stupa, a large cylindrical structure, marks this important spot. The Archaeological Museum houses significant Buddhist relics, including the Lion Capital of Ashoka, which became India's national emblem.
Local Crafts and Shopping
Varanasi has a long history of silk production. The city's weavers create detailed Banarasi sarees, brocades, and other textiles. Visit the weaving centers in the Madanpura area to see artisans at work and buy directly from them. The lanes around Vishwanath Temple sell various religious items, brass work, and wooden toys.
Culinary Experiences
Varanasi's food reflects its varied culture. Try local specialties like kachori sabzi (fried pastry with spicy filling) for breakfast or Banarasi paan (betel leaf with various fillings) after meals. The city's lassi, a yogurt-based drink, is particularly thick and creamy. For a memorable meal, eat at one of the rooftop restaurants near Assi Ghat for views of the Ganges while you dine.
Best Time to Visit
Visit Varanasi between October and March when temperatures are moderate. December and January can be cool, especially in the evenings, so bring warm clothes. If you don't mind heat, April and September have fewer tourists. Avoid the monsoon season from June to August, when heavy rains can flood areas along the river.
Getting Around
Walk or take a cycle rickshaw through Varanasi's narrow lanes. For longer distances, use auto-rickshaws and taxis. When exploring the ghats, walking often works best, allowing you to experience the atmosphere at your own pace. Boat rides offer another way to move between ghats while enjoying river views.
