In 2024 Top 10 Places to Visit in Varanasi – Stay option, Famous Food, Ghats and Transportation.

Top 10 Places to Visit in Varanasi

 Varanasi

Varanasi, also known as the “Spiritual Capital of India,” is one of the oldest cities in the world. It is called by various names such as Varanasi, Kashi, and Banaras, all referring to the same city. The name Varanasi is derived from the two rivers, Varuna and Assi, while Kashi, the oldest name of the city, comes from the Sanskrit word “Kashya,” meaning “to shine.” The name Banaras originated from the Pali language, where the city was referred to as Varanasi, leading to the common usage of Banaras.

Varanasi is famous for its rich culture and spiritual significance. It is home to Asia’s largest residential university, Banaras Hindu University, and is often referred to as the City of Temples, City of Lights, City of Classical Music, and the Oldest Living City on Earth. The city is renowned for its vibrant culture, traditions, sightseeing spots, beautiful ghats, fairs, festivals, and its numerous temples.

One of the most sacred sites in Varanasi is the Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirling, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, considered highly holy in Hinduism. It is believed that dying in Varanasi liberates the soul from the cycle of life and death, granting salvation and union with Lord Shiva.

How to Reach Varanasi

There are three primary ways to reach Varanasi:

1.By Road: Varanasi is well-connected to major cities like Agra, Lucknow, Delhi, and Kolkata.

2.By Train: Varanasi has two railway stations: Varanasi Junction and Kashi Junction, which are about 5-6 kilometers apart from each other.

3.By Air: The Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport is located about 25 kilometers from the city center. Taxis from the airport typically cost between ₹700 and ₹1000.

Local Transportation in Varanasi

For getting around the city, you can use services like Ola, Uber, auto-rickshaws, cycle rickshaws, or even hire a four-wheeler, which may cost between ₹1500 and ₹2000 per day.

Best Time to Visit in Varanasi

The ideal time to visit Varanasi is between October and February, with November and December being particularly enjoyable due to the pleasant winter weather.

Accommodation in Varanasi

Varanasi offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly Dharamshalas near Godowlia and Kashi Vishwanath Temple (₹200 to ₹300 per night) to hotels ranging from ₹500 to ₹2000.

Many Days to Spend in Varanasi?

If you’re on a tight schedule, one day is sufficient to visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, the ghats, and witness the Ganga Aarti. However, to fully experience the city, a stay of at least three days is recommended.

Famous Ghats of Varanasi

There are over 84 ghats in Varanasi. Most are used for bathing and worship, while two—Manikarnika Ghat and Harishchandra Ghat—are used for religious rituals. These ghats stretch along approximately 6.5 km of the Ganges River, forming a half-moon shape. You can easily walk from one ghat to another without any obstacles, with each ghat having its own ancient story.

Among the 84 ghats, Assi Ghat, Panchganga Ghat, Adi Keshav Ghat, Dashashwamedh Ghat, and Manikarnika Ghat are considered the most important. If you can’t visit all the ghats, make sure to visit these key ones.

Here are five prominent ghats you shouldn’t miss:

1.Assi Ghat: Known for its serene atmosphere and evening aarti, this ghat is a confluence of the Ganga and Assi rivers. It’s popular for sunrise views and boat rides.

2.Panchganga Ghat: This ghat is where five rivers are said to meet: Ganga, Yamuna, Saraswati, Kirana, and Dhupapa. Though only the Ganga is visible today, it remains a sacred bathing spot.

3.Adi Keshav Ghat: Located where the Varuna River meets the Ganga, this ancient ghat is less crowded and ideal for a peaceful visit.

4.Manikarnika Ghat: One of the oldest and most sacred ghats, where cremations occur continuously. It is believed that those cremated here attain salvation.

5.Dashashwamedh Ghat: Famous for its grand Ganga Aarti in the evening, where priests perform rituals in honor of Lord Shiva, the Sun, Fire, and the Ganges.

Dev Diwali in Varanasi

Dev Diwali is one of the most significant festivals celebrated in Varanasi, falling on Kartik Purnima, 15 days after Diwali. The entire city, especially the ghats, is illuminated with earthen lamps, symbolizing the victory of gods over demons.

Famous Food of Varanasi

Varanasi is also famous for its delectable street food. Some must-try items include kachori-sabzi, samosas, lassi, tomato chaat, malaiyyo, jalebi, thandai, and of course, the world-renowned Banarasi paan.

Best Places to in Varanasi

Here are 10 places you should not miss during your visit to Varanasi:

1.Kashi Vishwanath Temple

2.Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple

3.New Kashi Vishwanath Temple

4.Bharat Mata Temple

5.Ramnagar Fort

6.Sarnath

7.Shri Digambar Jain Temple

8.Chaukhandi Stupa

9.Thai Temple

10.Mulagandha Kuti Vihar Temple

Varanasi is not just a city; it’s an experience that blends spirituality, history, and culture into one. From its sacred temples and ancient ghats to the vibrant street life and mouth-watering food, every corner of Varanasi tells a story. Whether you’re seeking a spiritual journey, historical insights, or just a peaceful getaway, Varanasi welcomes you with open arms. Plan your visit, immerse yourself in its mystic charm, and carry the memories of this timeless city with you forever.