Embarking on tours to Varanasi, or as some still fondly call it, Benares, is an experience that captures your heart the minute you step onto its soil. It feels as though time has stood still here, giving you a glimpse into a world that has beautifully preserved its history, culture, and spirituality. The city’s aura is unique, and there’s an air of tranquillity that makes you feel as though you’re in a different world altogether.
A Stroll Down Memory Lane: The History of Varanasi
Varanasi has been home to generations of inhabitants for over 5000 years, earning it the title of one of the oldest living cities in the world. It’s a city that has nurtured spirituality, tradition, and culture for millennia, making it a living testament to India’s rich past.
Embarking on the Journey: How to Get to Varanasi
Flying In: By Air
With modern times come modern conveniences, and Varanasi has embraced them gracefully. The city is well-connected by air to all major cities in India, with Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport serving as the main point of entry for those who prefer to fly in.
Riding the Rails: By Train
For those who enjoy scenic landscapes and the rhythmic clatter of train wheels, Varanasi has excellent railway connectivity. Varanasi Junction serves as the city’s primary railway station and is well connected to various parts of India.
On the Open Road: By Road
For the road-trippers, Varanasi is easily accessible by a network of National Highways. The journey provides you with a chance to explore the smaller towns and villages of Uttar Pradesh and neighboring states.
Timing is Everything: Best Time to Visit Varanasi
The best time to visit Varanasi is during the cooler months between November and February. The weather is pleasant during these months, and the cool breeze makes exploring the city a delightful experience.
Unveiling the City: Top Attractions in Varanasi
The Lifelines of Varanasi: The Ghats
A visit to Varanasi is incomplete without spending time at its ghats – the stairs that lead to the holy Ganges. It’s here that you see the city in its most raw and genuine form.
Dashashwamedh Ghat: The Heartbeat of Varanasi
Among all the ghats, Dashashwamedh Ghat stands out with its vibrant atmosphere and the captivating Ganga Aarti that takes place every evening. It’s an experience that truly encapsulates the spirit of Varanasi.
Manikarnika Ghat: The Circle of Life
Manikarnika Ghat, known as the burning ghat, is where life’s ultimate reality is openly acknowledged. It’s a thought-provoking place that reminds us of the transient nature of life.
The Spiritual Abodes: Temples and Religious Spots
Varanasi is peppered with numerous temples and religious spots, each with its own story to tell.
Kashi Vishwanath Temple: A Beacon of Faith
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a significant pilgrimage spot. As one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, it holds a special place in the hearts of the devotees.
Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple: The Remover of Troubles
The Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, is known to grant boons and remove obstacles. It’s a place where people find Varanasi’s cultural offerings are truly one-of-a-kind. It’s a city that celebrates life in all its forms.
The Divine Ritual: Ganga Aarti
The Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat is a sight to behold. As the sun sets, the banks of the Ganges light up with the glow of lamps, and the air is filled with the rhythmic chants of the young priests performing the aarti. The whole experience is mesmerizing and leaves an indelible imprint on your heart.
Serene and Scenic: Boat Rides on the Ganges
The serene boat rides on the Ganges, especially at dawn or dusk, offer an entirely different perspective of the city. As you glide through the gentle waves, you witness the city waking up or winding down, with the backdrop of the rising or setting sun adding to the charm.
A Shopper’s Paradise: Markets in Varanasi
Varanasi is also known for its exquisite silk sarees and fine handicrafts. The bustling markets of Thatheri Bazaar and Vishwanath Lane offer a plethora of options for shoppers looking for unique souvenirs or gifts.
The Taste of Varanasi: Local Delicacies
Varanasi’s cuisine is as rich as its culture. Don’t miss out on trying the local delicacies such as Banarasi Paan, Kachori Sabzi, and the famous Varanasi Lassi. Each bite is a celebration of flavors that leaves you wanting more.
Wrapping Up: The Essence of Varanasi
A tour to Varanasi is more than just a trip – it’s a journey into the soul of India. The city, with its spiritual aura, cultural richness, and historical depth, offers an experience that transcends the ordinary. Whether it’s the breathtaking view of the sunrise over the Ganges, the captivating Ganga Aarti, or the mouth-watering local cuisine, Varanasi leaves you with memories that stay with you long after you’ve left its shores.