Varanasi Travel Guide – Costa Riviera

Welcome to varanasi

The Spiritual Capital of India”

Varanasi Tourism

World’s oldest living city, Varanasi – also known as Kashi (City of Life) and Benaras, is the spiritual capital of India. It is one of Hinduism’s seven holy cities. The old city of Varanasi lies along the western banks of the Ganges, spread across a labyrinth of narrow galis. Be prepared to walk on foot and encounter some holy cows! Temples at almost every turn engulf Varanasi but the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is the most visited and the oldest of the lot. Benaras is known as the city of Lord Shiva for a reason, and rightfully so.

Varanasi is considered an auspicious place to die, as it is believed to grant moksha or liberation from the cycle of life and death. Spiritually enlightening, the heart of the city pulsates around the ghats, about 80 of which border the Ganges. Be prepared for the sights, sounds and smells! Don’t miss out on the hot chaat and cool lassi. Though, all chaos and noise on the ghats take a pause before dusk when the Ganga Aarti begins to take place, a ceremony of immense grandeur.

This divine city is also an important destination for Buddhists. Gautam Buddha preached his first sermon in Benaras, a part which is now in Sarnath.

How to Reach Varanasi

Varanasi is well connected by train, road as well as by air. It has two major railway stations, Varanasi Junction and the Mughal Sarai Junction. The city has its own international airport with daily flights. Buses are also available.

What is the best time to visit Varanasi?

The best time to visit Varanasi is Winter (November – February) since the temperature is low and there is a calm breeze throughout the day. Summers in Varanasi experience high and dry temperatures. It is best to avoid the summers since they are hot dry and sunny making outdoor sightseeing difficult. Monsoons are a pleasant change, with moderate to heavy rainfall, while the winters are the best time to visit Varanasi, owing to the marvellous weather conditions that elevate its beauty to a large extent.

must visit destination

Kashi Vishwanath Temple

This is the most important place to see in Varanasi. This temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India and the history of this holy place dates back to over 3500 years. The architecture of this temple is worth witnessing as it depicts a unique grandeur. The temple used to have a golden dome and hence, it is also known as Golden Temple.

Monkey Temple

This temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga but knwn as Monkey temple because of the monkey population which thrives in the premises of this holy site. It is a fun place to visit as along with paying visit to the Goddess, you will also get to have some adventure, hiding from the monkeys especially when they try to snatch the food bags from your hands.

Dasaswamedh Ghat

One of the most important and crowded ghats in Varanasi, Dasaswamedh ghat is where all the tourists flock. It is located near the Vishwanath temple and is famous for its evening aarti. It is crowded with Sadhus, ascetics, devotees and beggars and this place will give you the true essence of Varanasi. In the evening, you will see hundreds of oil lamps lit up for the aarti and later left in the river and the sight of these lamps floating on water is truly enchanting.

Manikarnika Ghat

Manikarnika is the largest Hindu cremation ground in India and it has a story of mythological significance too. It is said that those who get cremated here attain Moksha and hence, it is an important place for Hindus.

Ramnagar Fort

This fort was built in the 18th century and is an important sightseeing destination in Varanasi. You will get to see some unique ornamented swords, rare photos of tiger hunting and other items of the old era, which still retain its charm.

Almagir Mosque

This mosque is famous mainly for its exquisite architecture and location. It is situated on the edge of River Ganga which makes it look more pleasing.

Assi Ghat

This is a sacred ghat situated near the spot where River Ganga and Assi meet. Devotees have a holy bath here, in order to pay homage to the huge Shiv Linga located near this ghat. It is situated in the southern part of Varanasi and hence is less crowded.

Sarnath

Sarnath is at a short distance to Varanasi and is an important pilgrimage site for the Buddhists. This is a place where Gautam Buddha is believed to have visited in 528 BC in order to preach the Wheel of law. It is an important site as mentioned in the Buddhist legends.