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Varanasi Tourism

Varanasi is one of the oldest and spiritual cities of the world where multicultural and multifaith heritage becomes more prominent. Also, to an extent, it is an important Hindu pilgrimage site and is situated in the northern part of the Indian state on the bank of the Ganges River. The spiritual environment of Varanasi is always pervasive, but especially so early in the morning and at dusk when the water’s edge of the ghats brims with prayers and rituals. Many religious landmarks such as KASHI VISHWANATH TEMPLE or shopping areas in which people can buy different things starting from local handcrafts, silks, and spices are present in the city.

These are top tourist attractions in Varanasi to give the tourists a real-time experience of the historical and religious city.

Public transportation for tourism in Varanasi ranges from the famous boat tours over the Ganges to the inspiring Ganga Aarti – the alley-like roads, the bustling-thronged streets, and antiquity-filled sites in every corner constitute an overload of the senses. For this reason, Varanasi is one of the must-visit destinations for tourists looking for more than leisure, culture as well as education and spiritual tours in India because it is where tourism education, music and art are enhanced.

Varanasi Tourism

Popular Varanasi Tour Packages

Explore our best personalized tour packages for Varanasi, offering the finest holiday experiences in the city.

Varanasi Tour Packages
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Sarnath Varanasi Tour

Spiritual journey through Sarnath and Varanasi highlights.

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Duration 07N/08D
Varanasi Ayodhya Lucknow Tour

Explore sacred cities and cultural heritage sites.

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Gaya Varanasi Prayagraj Lucknow

Pilgrimage blending spirituality and cultural exploration.

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Varanasi Ayodhya Tour

Dive into Varanasi and Ayodhya's divine heritage.

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Holistic tour of spirituality and Nawabi culture.

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Kashi Darshan Tour

Experience the essence of Varanasi's spiritual charm.

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Duration 04N/05D
Varanasi Bodhgaya Tour

Discover Buddhist serenity and Varanasi's sacred aura.

Varanasi Religious Tour

Explore popular Varanasi religious tour packages combined with Ayodhya, Prayagraj, and Mathura-Vrindavan pilgrimage tours.

Ayodhya Tour
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Duration 03D/2D
Ayodhya Ram Lala Darshan Tour

Seek divine blessings at Ram Lala temple.

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Duration 03D/2D
Ayodhya Mathura Vrindavan Tour

Explore Lord Ram and Krishna's sacred sites.

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Ayodhya Varanasi Tour

Blend spirituality of Ayodhya and holy Varanasi.

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Ayodhya Varanasi Prayagraj Tour

Experience sacred cities' essence and divine rituals.

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Duration 03D/2D
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Spiritual journey through sacred and cultural landmarks.

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Ayodhya Tour with Haridwar Rishikesh

Pilgrimage combining Ram's legacy and Ganges serenity.

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Duration 03D/2D
Ayodhya Ram Lala Darshan Tour

Seek divine blessings at Ram Lala temple.

Ayodhya Tour Package
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Duration 03D/2D
Ayodhya Mathura Vrindavan Tour

Explore Lord Ram and Krishna's sacred sites.

Ayodhya Tour Package
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Duration 03D/2D
Ayodhya Varanasi Tour

Blend spirituality of Ayodhya and holy Varanasi.

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Duration 03D/2D
Ayodhya Varanasi Prayagraj Tour

Experience sacred cities' essence and divine rituals.

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Spiritual journey through sacred and cultural landmarks.

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Ayodhya Tour with Haridwar Rishikesh

Pilgrimage combining Ram's legacy and Ganges serenity.

Prayagraj Tour
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Prayagraj Tour

Explore Triveni Sangam and rich spiritual heritage.

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Sacred journey through Krishna and Prayagraj landmarks.

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Prayagraj Tour with Varanasi

Discover Ganges spirituality in Prayagraj and Varanasi.

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Prayagraj Varanasi Ayodhya Tour

Dive into India's spiritual heart with sacred cities.

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Pilgrimage blending spirituality and Nawabi cultural charm.

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Prayagraj Tour with Haridwar Rishikesh

Experience Sangam and Ganges' divine tranquility.

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Duration 03D/2D
Prayagraj Tour

Explore Triveni Sangam and rich spiritual heritage.

Prayagraj Tour
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Duration 03D/2D
Prayagraj Tour with Mathura Vrindavan

Sacred journey through Krishna and Prayagraj landmarks.

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Duration 03D/2D
Prayagraj Tour with Varanasi.

Discover Ganges spirituality in Prayagraj and Varanasi.

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Dive into India's spiritual heart with sacred cities.

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Pilgrimage blending spirituality and Nawabi cultural charm.

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Prayagraj Tour with Haridwar Rishikesh

Experience Sangam and Ganges' divine tranquility.

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Mathura Vrindavan Tour

Explore Lord Krishna's birthplace and spiritual heritage.

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Mathura Vrindavan Tour with Ayodhya

Divine journey blending Krishna and Ram's sacred sites.

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Spirituality meets architectural marvel in this unique tour.

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Mathura Vrindavan Ayodhya Varanasi Tour

Comprehensive spiritual exploration across India's holiest cities.

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Mathura Vrindavan Tour with Haridwar Rishikesh

Krishna's land meets Ganges' spiritual serenity.

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Mathura Vrindavan Tour

Explore Lord Krishna's birthplace and spiritual heritage.

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Divine journey blending Krishna and Ram's sacred sites.

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Spirituality meets architectural marvel in this unique tour.

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Sacred journey paired with Delhi's iconic landmarks.

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Mathura Vrindavan Ayodhya Varanasi Tour

Comprehensive spiritual exploration across India's holiest cities.

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Mathura Vrindavan Tour with Haridwar Rishikesh

Krishna's land meets Ganges' spiritual serenity.

History and Significance of Varanasi City

Located on the western bank of the Ganges River, Varanasi or Kashi, is one of the oldest living cities in the world. In Hindu culture, it is more vital since it is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Shiva and the gateway to ‘moksha’. Established as a city in the ancient ages it has remained an important area in terms of education, culture and even spiritualism. Sages, thinkers, and writers for centuries have made this city their home: The temples here are remarkable, including the Vishwanath temple, thus also testifying to brilliant art and faith.

Its geography has been defined by the reign and dethrone of dynasties that were seen in this part of the world and they include; the Mauryas right up to Mughals. Hindu sacred river Ganges or the ‘life river’ divides Varanasi, thus becoming an eternal centre of pilgrimages, sacred rituals, and cremations for the people. Thus, Varanasi is also the spiritual home for others around the globe who seek harmony, enlightenment, and connection with history – apart from Hindu people.

Varanasi Tourism
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Hindu Pilgrimage in Varanasi

This way millions of devotees come from all corners of the world to visit one of the most popular Hindu pilgrimage centres Varanasi. So great is the spiritual value of Varanasi because it is believed that whosoever dies here and gets cremated on the banks of the River Ganges or its “ghats” attains “Moksha”, the state of freedom from birth and rebirth. To wash away their sins and pay for their sins pilgrims flock to the shores of the river and take a bath in it. Therefore, the concept of the pilgrimage is a roundup of ghats, particularly the Dashashwamedh Ghat where innovative rituals such as Ganga aarti are held daily to set up a captivating mood.

Another significant place is venerating Lord Shiva and it is named the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. The other prominent place is Kashi Vishwanath Temple, which is the worship place of Lord Shiva. In the latter, followers provide prayers and engage in other related ceremonies in honour of the god. From the ancient shrines located in the city to the alleys full of tourists seeking the spiritual, Varanasi emanates spiritual energy. Most people see a visit to Varanasi as something that transforms their lives and is tightly connected to the essence of Hinduism.

Buddhist Pilgrimage in Varanasi

While in most ways Varanasi signifies Hinduism, the city also has a Buddhist connection and is a part of the Buddhist circuit. Buddhism in Varanasi was preached from this ancient city when Budha delivered his first Sermon at Deer Park at Sarnath which is just several kilometres away from this city. This occasion is referred to as the ‘Dharmachakra Pravartan’, indicating that whether it was the Buddha or certain other figures of this period, the radical transformation was underway and the process of teaching with be underway. This makes the city imperative to Buddhist tourism in Varanasi because visitors also gain knowledge about the event’s historical and religious value.

Sarnath, which stands for the remains of old monasteries, stupas and the Dhamek Stupa which is held sacred by Buddhists as being the trail of the four reflections of the Buddha is a trip of one of the popular Buddhist places to visit in Varanasi many pilgrims make from Varanasi. There are relics in the Sarnath Archaeological Museum about the existence and the teachings of the Buddha. For Buddhists, it is a Holy Trip to Varanasi & Sarnath and a real journey of faith where it provides a very good opportunity for spiritual recharge as well as reaffiliation with the core of Buddhism and Buddhist Temples with the permanent knowledge given by the Buddha.

Jain Pilgrimage in Varanasi

The spiritual capital of India, Varanasi is also famous among Jain tourists as it has a deep religious and historical connection with the 24th Jain Tirthankar – Lord Mahavira. Varanasi is the Jainism birthplace, which is one of the valuable religions that emphasize preeminently truth, asceticism, and non-violent alternatives. Today there are a lot of Jain temples one of which is the Kashi Jain Temple dedicated to Lord Mahavira is one of the must-visit places in Varanasi.

Many people visit this temple to worship the Tirthankaras because of the nice construction and the serene environment. Sarnath is also closely associated with Varanasi, believed to be the place which Lord Mahavira visited while on his expedition for enlightenment. Devotees visit these sites for praying, fasting, meditation, requesting a boon, and thinking about the concepts of liberation and ahimsa. The religious programs portrayed by Varanasi show that Jain devotees get an opportunity to appreciate the history and spirituality of the city adding faith and devotion to what they experience. The guided tours for exploring Varanasi enable one to value these sacred practices and also gain a better understanding of Varanasi’s auspicious historic status.

Holy Ghats & Arti Darshan in Varanasi

Concerning the help, spirituality is at the heart of reasons for coming to Varanasi, especially along the ghats, to engage in “darshan” – the act of seeing and communicating with deities. People visiting Haridwar and the local population gather at the ghats which are a flight of steps leading to the sacred River Ganga to perform daily rituals, and prayers and seek solace. Of these, the Dashashwamedh Ghat is particularly crowded – especially during the evening Ganga Aarti when there’s fire dancing and auspicious chanting going on. Varanasi sightseeing tour permits tourists to watch these religious rituals richer and also explore the cultural antecedent of the city.

While some of the pilgrims who visit these must-visit holy ghats in Varanasi want to see and hear the prayers that they offer all through the day, some may come to take a dip in the holy waters which is believed to wash away sins. Each of them is significant in the Hindu religion and helps tourists learn more about the process of life, death and reincarnation; intense or passive, ranging from the Assi Ghat to the famous Manikarnika Ghat that is used for cremation. In the case of darshan here, the rite is holistically transformative for everyone who performs the act, as the ghats of Varanasi are not merely geographical locations, but sacred sites where the divine densities with the human densities.

River Cruising and Boating in Varanasi

One of the most interesting ways to get to Varanasi’s religious and historic heart is by watering in boats or sailing. In Varanasi, the rambling activities are defined by the flowing yet powerful Ganges River. The mornings are best because the boats glide on the water, offering an excellent view of the ghats where people come to worship and bathe. A visitor has to make sure they make a boat trip at dawn because this affords a lovely reflection of the ancient temples and the bathing ghats create a halo of gold in the early morning light.

People watch, and contemplate the eternal cycle of life, and death, as well as spirituality as the boat cruises through facilities for cremation like, Manikarnika and Harishchandra Ghat. Besides the spiritual aspect of boating allows observing the Varanasi’s life from the water: fishing men, casting their nets, the pilgrims offering their prayers, and the infinite procession of people performing their ritual ablutions. Boating Tours in Varanasi is a physically enriching undertaking that creates a fascinating virtual experience through the spiritual history of India.

Popular Tourism Attractions in Varanasi

Explore the top points of interest in Varanasi for the best holiday experience in the holy city.

Kashi Vishwanath Temple

The city’s most revered and top tourist place in Varanasi is the temple of Lord Shiva, termed as Kashi Vishwanath temple, Varanasi has been named as one of the seventh sacred places based on Hindu mythology. Even though the temple has been reconstructed and renovated several times — the most recent of that in the 18th century – thousands of years ago the ancient place for worship existed on the western banks of the Ganges River. Folks from all corners of the country and all over the globe come flocking to the place because it is believed that a visit to this temple will erase all your sins and grant you “moksha”.

Giridhara Nayaka moves through the inner shrine with lightning-like speed, and followers revolve around the Shiva lingam that is enshrined in the sanctum sanctorum A golden-crowned ‘vimana’ with highly animated sculptures form the main roof.

Being part and parcel of life and death, the central location of the temple in Varanasi adds to the impression and appeal of the temple as well. This brings the pilgrims’ ceremonies into direct contact with the Ganges ghats owing to the daily services while integrating the temple rituals into their holiness. Pilgrimage to Kashi Vishwanath which represents the eternal link between the city the river and divine protection is less of a pilgrimage and more of a spiritually enthralling journey.

Varanasi Tourism

Vishwanatha Khanda

Vishwanatha Khanda of incredibly significant religious and historical significance is just a stone’s throw from Varanasi’s renowned Kashi Vishwanath Temple which is one of the best places to visit in Varanasi. Particularly important are the history and legends associated with the temple complex and its relations to the ancient “Vishwanatha” (Lord Shiva). The place named Vishwanatha Khanda is believed to offer an INTENSITY experience to the devotees. An important derivative of the term ‘khanda’ means a particular area or section of the broader temple grounds.

It was mentioned in several works to be the site of the union of divine energy and power and is generally recognized as belonging to the initial phase of the early Purana period.

To seek blessings and solace physically seek solace and blessings in Vishwanatha Khanda on their journey to Kashi Vishwanath Temple. In this case, the sound of temple bells and the dedication generates a kind of quiet and deep solemnity. This research confirms that Vishwanatha Khanda is the crucial and distinctive area of Varanasi’s religious tour because of its sacredness, location and close proximity to the main temple and the Ganges. It interprets the concept of urban spirituality as both people’s longing for spirituality and the city as a place for achieving the goal.

Varanasi Tourism

Banaras Hindu University

The biggest educational institution in India, Banaras Hindu University (BHU) is a centre of composite Indian culture situated in Varanasi. BHU, which was established in 1916 by the esteemed Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya is not only an important teaching-learning institution but also a vibrant seat of tradition, art and spirituality. Various temples, museums, and cultural establishments are here, the territory of the complex occupies the right bank of the Ganges River, and due to modern design and the great history of the territory, everything looks rather varied and impressive.

BHU continues to attract students globally because of the diverse programs it has in the disciplines that cut across the arts, Science, Engineering and Social Sciences.

Many departments including the Institute of Medical Sciences, and the Faculty of Arts amongst others have greatly boosted academic and scientific development in India. Besides academic achievements, BHU organizes several festivals, cultural events and spiritual seminars which enrich students and tourists; thus, Cultural promotion through BHU’s extra-curricular activities plays a vital role in preserving the spiritual historical culture of Varanasi. The university puts it in an iconic location in Varanasi, the oldest city in India, and a spiritual abode which sets the milieu for spiritual learning and learning for self-spiriting.

Varanasi Tourism

Bharat Kala Bhavan

Varanasi, or Benares, boasts one of the most famous and elegant arts and crafts museums, Bharat Kala Bhavan, hidden deep in the territory of BHU. The well-known museum was established in the year 1920 and consists of numerous types of medals, arts, sculptures, textiles, and various materials important for the identification of India’s culture from the ancient period to the modern period. Bronzes of the Gupta and Mauryan periods friezes with minute details, Banaras silks, Banaras weaves – the museum has work in many media.

These are some of the wonderful documents in the museum such as a few manuscripts, large collections of the colourful history of Varanasi and a splendid gallery of Buddhist and Hindu figures and statues.

Some of the features which should not be missed are the minute manuscripts, various exposition of the vivid history of Varanasi and an interesting gallery of Buddhist and Hindu idols. Besides being a museum, Bharat Kala Bhavan is a cultural hub in which individuals, scholars as well as art lovers may; in fact, discover and feel the fine arts of historical as well as contemporary India. This is an ideal place for anyone who wants to understand the flavour of art inherent in Varanasi along with the Indian subcontinent since the museum offers its guests a calm, meditative ambience, and many exhibits.

Varanasi Tourism

Jantar Mantar

The scientific tradition refers to one of India’s interesting archaeological monuments called Jantar Mantar in Varanasi city. This Jantar Mantar, constructed in the eighteenth century by Maharaja Jai Singh II of Jaipur who also designed similar instruments in Delhi and Jaipur, is to observe planetary positions and foretell astronomical phenomena. Some of the architectural tools available at the place include the Samrat Yantra which is the largest sundial in India besides being used in the determination of time, though with a lot of precision.

It also embodies the great skill of construction techniques of ancient India and the excellent knowledge the ancient India possessed in the field of Astrology.

Even though Jantar Mantar is today not the main tool employed for astronomical observation, it remains an important historical site which offers tourists information about earlier scientific discoveries. This centrally positioned observatory adds to the city’s complex blend of learning, devotion and archaeology and is therefore a local attraction ideal for historical curiosity and for tourists.

Varanasi Tourism

Ramnagar Fort

Ramnagar Fort located on the eastern bank of the Ganges River is one of the most convincing examples of Mughal and Hindu architectural style that was a palace of the imperial period in Varanasi. The Varanasi Tourism includes the royal dynasty resided in the fort, built in the 18th Century by Kashi Naresh Raja Balwant Singh.

Visitors can also get a glimpse of the opulence of the existing lifestyle at that time by its detailed carvings, huge courtyard and beautiful balconies overlooking the river.

Another feature of the fort is the Kashi Vidyapeeth which houses weapons, old cars and other royal articles, and a museum. One of the reasons that thousands of people gather at the Ramnagar Fort is the yearly Ramnagar Ramlila – an extravagant theatrical performance of the Ramayana epic. The extension of the fort complex from the river adds beauty to the place and adds an impression of an oasis in the concrete jungle. Travelling to Ramnagar Fort plumbs a cultural history still active at the very heart of the city, as well as exploring Varanasi history and heritage of the royals of Varanasi.

Varanasi Tourism

Durga Temple

The Durga Temple in Varanasi is one of the famous and widely prayed temples of the city and it is locally called “Durga Kund Mandir”. Located just adjacent to the Durga Kund – a natural water body, the temple is devoted to the Goddess Durga. One legend has it the temple was built in the eighteenth century by a Maratha queen and has been since then a religious tourism in Varanasi stronghold for Hindu devotees; especially during the Navratri festival when thousands of followers throng this temple for rituals and celebrations.

In designing, the temple tends to distinguish itself through the architectural design where red is dominant and emphasizes the strength of the goddess, while the overall environment of the temple creates the spiritual feeling that completes devotees.

The Durga Temple is not only a worship place but also a cultural place where people believe and worship the goddess Durga to get power, protection etc. Its location in Varanasi sets of religious history and is a must-visit centre for devotes who are in search of an ASCENSION to the higher realms of spirituality.

Varanasi Tourism

Kedareshvara Temple

Among the gems known only to the locals, Kedareshwara Temple represents great importance for both archaeology lovers and devotees. One of the most popular mythological and historical structures it’s an ancient temple of Lord Shiva with the tradition that it was created by Pandavas during their living here. There still, the temple provides a quiet atmosphere to devotees who want to find some sort of tranquillity and spiritual experience primarily because of its siting proximity to the Ganges River and the ghats.

Compared to more famous buildings like Kashi Vishwanath Temple, the relatively less austere but equally beautiful construction of the architectural style of these temples allows tourists to come across the comparatively less flamboyant spiritual side of Varanasi.

The main attraction or the main deity of the temple is an illustrious, revered lingam, called the Kedareshwara Lingam. The faithful pour on it offerings of milk, water and honey. Temple remains a famous spot for pilgrims as they take their spiritual tour through Varanasi because it is quite serene and less crowded as compared to other places making it ideally suited for meditation. Not like the more busy tourist attractions across the land, the Kedareshwara Temple is a significant history of the city that can be of use to the tourists to relate than see.

Varanasi Tourism

Sankat Mochan Temple

LORD HANUMAN – The God of power, and devotion and the one who takes away all the hurdles from the lives of devotees is worshipped at SANKATMOCHAN TEMPLE, VARANASI. This temple which is also situated on the banks of the Assi River was originally constructed in the 16th century but Pandit ji Madan Mohan Malaviya rededicated the temple in the nineteenth century. Sankatmochan means ‘dispeller of difficulties and hordes of devotees throng this place to seek blessings of Lord Hanuman for protection, and courage and to get strength to face the struggle within.

Due to this serene environment and location from the more populated area of the Ghats, the temple is an ideal place for praying and meditation.

The generally spiritual ambience of the temple, however, is soothing and often helps people to find solace if not enigmatic wisdom. Tuesdays and Saturdays are privileged days for prayers and sacrifices to Lord Hanuman to the temple and consequently, the Sankatmochan Temple is fuller in these two days. The Sankatmochan Temple is an essential part of worship in Varanasi as it gives all the visitors a feeling of calm and hope whoever they are, whether they seek a miracle or are there to marvel at the beautiful environment.

Varanasi Tourism

Shitala Temple

The beautiful but mostly unnoticed temple of Sitala Mata, the goddess of health and destroyer of diseases, including smallpox, is Shitala Temple situated in Varanasi. It has to be understood that the temple forms a part of the religious geography of Varanasi and is built at the heart of the town just adjacent to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Those who want to stay protected from sickness and epidemic visit the Shitala Temple to seek hers for their health. Often the lighted oil lamp and other prasads or offerings in the form of sacred food are presented with devotion by devotees in return for gratitude.

When the people from all the vicinity come to worship the goddess and to pray for her divine intervention, the shrine becomes most important on “Shitala Ashtami”.

Some people trust the goddess to help in cases of sorrow which such a simple and powerful temple embodies. Indeed the Shitala Temple surrounded by Varanasi’s trading thoroughfare is a symbol of the city’s rooted belief in healing sorcery and the power accorded to an extra-human agency during illness.

Varanasi Tourism

Chausath Yogini Temple

Chausath Yogini Temple in Varanasi and one of the oldest and most interesting places where the 64 Yoginis, prominent female gods of tantric and spiritual power are worshipped. It emphasizes the strange circular form of the temple buildings and 64 small shrines arranged around the central cultic dwelling.

Beautiful carvings and sculptures with multiple instances of Hindu Gods and demons often popular in the narratives of Hindu mythology, the temple is considered to have been constructed in the tenth century and is an architectural marvel combining expert craftsmanship with deep-rooted religious fervor.

Worshippers, who visit the temple get a prayer for courage, wisdom, and personal growth primarily in the sphere of spiritual growth. To those seeking a connection with the ancient goddesses, the temple’s location tucked away from touristy parts of the city allows one to meditate. The relatively unknown gem of the city is the Chausath Yogini Temple which indeed gives a glance of its rich past of tantra, goddess cults and mystical practices.

Varanasi Tourism

Tulsi Manas Temple

Committed to Lord Rama and, specifically, the “Ramcharitmanas”, which is an Awadhi language epic composed by the poet-saint Tulsidas in the 16th century, the Tulsi Manas Temple Varanasi is a beautiful and historically meaningful place which is a must-visit temple in Varanasi. Situated beside the famous Durga Temple, this is a comparatively modern yet magnificent temple that boasts bright white marble outers that hold intricate artworks depicting “Ramayana”.

For followers of Lord Rama who believe in Tulsi’s divine grace, it is considered a sacred site because believed that Tulsidas wrote *the Ramcharitmanas*) the Awadhi language translation of Ramayana here which is easy to understand for the common man.

Sting’s album Immortal Ten: JUNO nominated harpist Park mandatory music to help devotees meditate and pray as a 1000-year-old temple provides the perfect backdrop with the hypnotizing sounds of chants. Devotees come here to worship Lord Rama who is the deity of this temple, to perform Pooja, to get blessed to watch how beautifully the temple has been constructed. Though the Tulsi Manas Temple has not much significance relating to any festivals the temple blooms up during Ram Navami when beautifully adorned and adorned with devotees who have arrived in large numbers to celebrate the birth and preaching of Lord Rama. Besides being a worship temple, this is a temple that is devoted to poetry, spirituality, and devotion.

Varanasi Tourism

Bharat Mata Temple

Exclusive to India as opposed to a goddess, Bharat Mata Temple at Varanasi is a symbol of worship in its own right. Located near the Varanasi Hindu University, it was also inaugurated by the father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi in 1936 and symbolises the unity and pride of India. The Temple of Bharat Mata contains an amazing marble machin-mapped replica of India which is equally carved by experts to depict the whole map of the Indian sub-continent, unlike the conventional temples where we find idols of gods and goddesses.

This has made it one of the popular points of interest within Varanasi; people travel just to watch this unique and patriotic icon of India.

It enables the visitors to think about the country's artistic, historical, and geographical diversities when displaying the surrounding territories and distinct landmarks. The calm and solemn image of the temple as the guesthouse gives them an appropriate setting to respect Indian principles and its struggle for freedom. It is a centre of ideas of patriotism, and people of all ages who wish to know the concept of a united India visit it. Bharat Mata Temple is a very popular historical shrine in Varanasi which is a symbol of unity and the history of the country and which ignites and proud feeling in everyone who visits this place.

Varanasi Tourism

Goddess Annapurna Temple

Archeological and religious importance in Varanasi is also attached to the Temple of Annapurna – the goddess of food and nourishment. Many visitors and devotees accompany it since it is located near the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple. It has a history dating from the 18th century and the Maratha Queen Ahilyabai Holkar established the temple. It is believed that he himself brings the aspects of wealth and success to the devotee where food and eating supplies are secured.

Amidst the ruckus of Varanasi, the temple has maintained a peaceful environment with beautiful architecture and lively ceremonies.

In many cases people pay visit to this shrine to seek the goddess’ divine interventions in life so as to lead a happy life. Foods offered to the deity are the symbols of people’s covenant with the provider and divine sustainer; moreover, a temple serves as a refuge for people, as well as a place of worship.

Varanasi Tourism

New Vishwanath Temple

Shiva Mahadev also supreme god in Hinduism and the New Vishwanath is also constructed in centre of Varanasi city which is modern temple. While there are many temples in this city and the surrounding areas, this particular temple is relatively young having being constructed in the 1960s. The school is located on the premise of Banaras Hindu University also known as BHU. The beautiful white marble structure of the temple is an approximation of the religious

The world’s extraordinary travellers and devotees visit this site because of the serene ambience and well-made sculptures which are in part ancient and contemporary.

It has a dual purpose – religious and cultural and is synonymous with the city’s continuous relationship with the Lord Shiva. Devotees flock here to seek divine favour for spiritual enlightenment to overcome all problems of life for success and protection against evils in life. The New Vishwanath Temple which represents active religious structure of Varanasi has already become one of the favourite tourist attractions.

Varanasi Tourism

Shitala Temple

The beautiful but mostly unnoticed temple of Sitala Mata, the goddess of health and destroyer of diseases, including smallpox, is Shitala Temple situated in Varanasi. It has to be understood that the temple forms a part of the religious geography of Varanasi and is built at the heart of the town just adjacent to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Those who want to stay protected from sickness and epidemic visit the Shitala Temple to seek hers for their health. Often the lighted oil lamp and other prasads or offerings in the form of sacred food are presented with devotion by devotees in return for gratitude.

When the people from all the vicinity come to worship the goddess and to pray for her divine intervention, the shrine becomes most important on “Shitala Ashtami”.

Some people trust the goddess to help in cases of sorrow which such a simple and powerful temple embodies. Indeed the Shitala Temple surrounded by Varanasi’s trading thoroughfare is a symbol of the city’s rooted belief in healing sorcery and the power accorded to an extra-human agency during illness.

Varanasi Tourism

Lord Kal Bhairav Temple

Of all these, one must regard the Lord Kal Bhairav Temple as rather unique, the place where the current Varanasi temple Kal Bhairav is worshipped as Kal Bhairav, the form of Shiva that is considered to be the destroyer in his fury. This temple is the most sacred and popular temple in Varanasi which also dates back a thousand years Built near the River Ganges, this temple is also among the pillars of the city. It is prohibited that anyone is allowed to enter the sacred city of Varanasi without the permission of Kal Bhairav; who is considered as guardian of the city.

The temple itself has a purist spiritual vibe and is rather simple, but muscular.

In the worship ritual, followers often present, wine and beer, and it is believed to represent the Kal Bhairav’s frightening aspect. It is recommended for all people who seek supernatural courage and shield temporal heads. It draws followers with meaning associated with religious experience and meaning, too, as well as the colorful rite and festivities that takes place throughout the years. Those who obey this strong aspect of Lord Shiva in one of the holiest cities of India, the temple of Kal Bhairav is continue to be a concentration.

Varanasi Tourism

Saint Ravidas Temple

Accomplished religious temple dedicated to the 15th-century poet and saint Ravidas, Varanasi contains the Saint Ravidas Temple. Ravidas is already a figure of the Bhakti movement whose literary contributions include devotional songs as well as, and philosophical precepts that emphasize equality, love and devotion. Heart and soul of its believers, people, particularly Dalit, throng into the central temple in the city where he resides as the spiritual guide and social justice warrior.

The architecture of the temple is quite simple but very engaging by going through this building one can definitely get a sense of how devoted the saint was to her faith and mission of teaching the people the word of God.

Lovingly singing his impassionate songs that can touch caste and religion, people visit the temple to seek for his boon of peace, prosperity, as well as spiritual progress. It also turns into a commercial centre during the festival known as Ravidas Jayanti which is the annual birth anniversary of the saint. This pious site in Varanasi not only acts as a place of worship but is a pitch perfect epitome of Ravidas’ worship of Human values, synthesis and commemoration of God.

Varanasi Tourism

Sarnath

Sarnath is another of the major Highlights of Buddhism and as a place of Pilgrimage is only Few kilometers away from Varanasi. After attaining Buddhahood in Bodh Gaya, Lord Buddha for the first time preached his Dhamma Chakra Pravartana here. With this essence the spiritual path that is Buddhism started. Sarnath is an ideal place for history lovers and for people who search for spiritual practices due to lovely environment of green ardour, which is bordered by remains of ancient constructions, stupas, and monasteries.

The most famous monument include the Dhamek Stupa constructed to represent the spot at which Shakyamuni taught for the first time after attaining enlightenment.

Other museums which are equally accessible to visitors include the Sarnath Archaeological Museum; which hosts the national emblem of India: the famous Lion Capital of Ashoka. Sarnath is preferred by Buddhist today because of its natural beauty and religious history that allows people to take time to reflect on their beliefs. This work is a valuable source of information about the life and actions of Buddha and is a perfect example of harmonic combination of spirituality and traditions.

Varanasi Tourism

Popular Religious Destinations

The other popular religious destinations can be visited with a Varanasi sightseeing tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the best time to visit Varanasi?

    With a view to experiencing the flamboyant historical past of the city, the best time to visit Varanasi is between October to March. The wonderful season for the ghats, the temples, and boat trips in Ganges River is during this time of the year because it is not hot. Well, there are also festive actions held in the city during this period and bright festivals only increase interest. Varanasi is best visited during October or November when Diwali festivities are on in full swing. Lanterns burn on about a thousand ghats and the whole city rejoices in devotion and gladness. Other events also are observed in honor of Ganga: for example, the Ganga Mahotsav, which is annually arranged in November and includes ceremonial actions, as well as music, dancing, and embraces of the national culture.

    These are organised usually in the month of November and are also known as Ganga Mahotsav, it has rituals, music, dancing, and cultural programs. Although they are winter months, there is a peaceful beauty to December and January with the mist in the mornings and fewer people around making ghats to look mysterious. Organized once in a dozen years, Kumbh Mela is attended by millions and is a grand welcome for those, who love crowds. Like other cities of India, Varanasi can be visited any time of the year and it has better connection from most of the major cities in India by air, rail as well as road transport. The spiritual and cultural revolution is complemented by visiting during the periods of the festivals, which is holding hands with the spirit of the city.

  • How to reach Varanasi?

    By Air: Varanasi has good connectivity with other cities of India through Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport located about 25 kilometers away from the city. People can reach there by air easily with the help of direct flight facilities resulting places like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Bangalore etc.

    By Road: A vast highway system facility the entry well for road buyers; one may contact bus and taxi amenities from places such as Lucknow, Patna, and Allahabad. There is also an opportunity to study the countryside of Uttar Pradesh themselves during the road trip.

    By Train: Varanasi Junction also known as Cantt. Stations, is the important railway junction in the North Indian Zone. It has also proper railway connectivity with Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkotta, Chennai and other parts of India. Accessing the site can be done by rail, road, and air; and usually, part of the adventure turns into a memorable event on its own.

  • What are the popular festivals celebrated in Varanasi?

    The specific area of Varanasi in India is famous for its bright and diverse festival illumination as it presents a spiritual culture of the city. The festival forms important and popular points of tourists interest is a part of this place where the street, temple and the Ghat resonate with the voices of devotion, tunes of music and colours that surpass from being just an event. Diwali, apparently the festival of lights, is one event perhaps the biggest where thousands of diyas or oil lamps illuminate the ghats of the river Ganga, accompanied by sounds of firecrackers and enchantments. Another beautiful event that takes place every evening at Dashashwamedh Ghat is Ganga Aarti where devotees offer prayer to the holy river by performing some extraoral rituals, light and fire and incense sticks.

    The celebrated ‘Kanwar Yatra’ in which the foot marching devotees come to the city to offer water to Lord Shiva, gets a legion of devotees in the Shravan month. Furthermore, since Holi is one of the most auspicious and joyous festivals celebrated in India, Varanasi goes the extra mile and paints its streets red and green in celebration of the much-loved festival. Other fairs of the state include Makar Sankranti, Navratri, Kalpeshtd and Kumbh Mela are famous fairs which help to enhance the feeling of pilgrimage on a large scale among the enthusiasts. The festivals of the Varanasi are reminding the uniqueness of the city merging the culture and spirit, as far as celebration and traditions are within the focus.

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