About Varansi

I believe you’re referring to Varanasi, also known as Benares or Kashi, which is a city located in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with a history dating back thousands of years.

Varanasi is considered one of the holiest cities in Hinduism and is a major pilgrimage site for Hindus. It is situated on the banks of the sacred river Ganges and is famous for its ghats, which are a series of steps leading down to the river where people perform various religious rituals and ceremonies.

The city is famous for its silk weaving industry, and visitors can find a variety of exquisite Banarasi sarees and textiles here.

Overall, Varanasi is a fascinating destination for those interested in history, culture, religion, and spirituality.

Varanasi has many places of interest to visit for tourists. Here are some of the top places to visit in Varanasi:

1. Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most famous and important temples in India. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located in the holy city of Varanasi, on the banks of the Ganges River. The temple is also known as the Golden Temple due to its domes covered in gold.

Non-Hindus are not allowed to enter the inner sanctum of the temple, but can still visit the temple complex and admire its beauty from the outside. Visitors are advised to dress conservatively and remove their shoes before entering the temple complex. The temple is open daily for worship and darshan.

2. Dashashwamedh Ghat

Dashashwamedh Ghat is one of the most famous and popular ghats (a series of steps leading down to a body of water) in Varanasi. It is located on the banks of the Ganges River, near the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. The ghat is named after the ten horses that were sacrificed by Lord Brahma in a ritual.

The ghat is famous for its evening aarti ceremony, which is a Hindu ritual of worship involving fire, bells, and chants. 

3. Sarnath

Sarnath is an important Buddhist pilgrimage site located about 10 kilometers from Varanasi. It is believed to be the place where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment, and is therefore considered one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in the world.

The main attraction in Sarnath is the Dhamek Stupa, which is a massive 128 feet tall structure built over 2,000 years ago. Some of the highlights of the museum include the Ashokan Pillar, the Lion Capital of Ashoka, and several Buddha statues.

The best time to visit is during the cooler months between October and March.

4. Manikarnika Ghat:

Manikarnika Ghat is also known as the Mahasmasana or the “Great Cremation Ground,” as it is one of the main ghats where cremations take place.

Manikarnika Ghat is one of the most important and sacred ghats in Varanasi. It is believed to be the place where Goddess Parvati’s earring fell into the river Ganges, and is therefore considered a place of immense spiritual significance by Hindus.

5. Ramnagar Fort

Ramnagar Fort is a historical fort located on the eastern bank of the Ganges River in Varanasi. It was built by Maharaja Balwant Singh of the Kashi Naresh dynasty in the 18th century and has been the residence of the royal family ever since.

One of the main attractions of the Ramnagar Fort is the Ramnagar Palace, which is a beautiful palace located within the fort complex. The palace has several rooms and courtyards, including the Durbar Hall, which has a collection of armory, swords, and daggers.

6. Assi Ghat

Assi Ghat is a popular and significant ghat located at the confluence of the Ganges and Assi Rivers in Varansi.

Visitors can also witness the daily Ganga Aarti ceremony, which takes place in the evenings, where lamps are lit and prayers are offered to the river.

One of the main attractions of Assi Ghat is the Shiva Lingam, which is a symbol of Lord Shiva that is worshipped by thousands of devotees every day. Visitors can also take a boat ride along the river and witness the beautiful views of the city and the ghats.