Varanasi, India

5 Day 14 Cities

Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Dashashwamedh Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, Assi Ghat, Sarnath, Tulsi Manas Temple, Durga Temple, Ramnagar Fort, Banaras Hindu University, Annapurna Temple, Bharat Mata Temple, New Vishwanath Temple, Kal Bhairav Temple, Gyan Vapi Well.

test

  • Varanasi, one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities, is a profound cultural and religious center in India.
  • Spiritual Capital of India: Varanasi is considered the spiritual heart of India, attracting millions of Hindu pilgrims who come to bathe in the sacred waters of the Ganges River, perform rituals, and seek liberation.
  • Ghats: The city is famous for its numerous ghats (riverfront steps), with over 80 ghats along the Ganges. Prominent ones include Dashashwamedh Ghat, known for its elaborate evening aarti (prayer ceremony with fire), and Manikarnika Ghat, one of the most sacred cremation sites.
  • Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, the holiest of Shiva temples. The temple is a major pilgrimage destination within the city.
  • Sarnath: Located just outside Varanasi, Sarnath is where the Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment, making it a significant site for Buddhists.
  • Cultural Hub: Varanasi is a center for music, arts, and education in northern India, known for its traditional Banarasi silk weaving, classical Indian music, and dance.
  • Banaras Hindu University (BHU): One of the largest residential universities in Asia, with a campus that includes the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, known for its collection of Indian paintings, artifacts, and textiles.
  • Architecture and Temples: Apart from the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Varanasi is home to numerous other temples like the Durga Temple, Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, and the Tulsi Manas Temple, each rich in history and architecture.
  • Culinary Experience: Varanasi offers a rich culinary experience, with traditional dishes and street foods like chaat, kachoris, and the famous Banarasi paan.
  • River Cruises: A boat ride on the Ganges at dawn offers a unique perspective of the ghats and the daily rituals of life and death, a poignant reflection of Indian spirituality and culture.
  • Learning Experience: Varanasi provides a deep dive into Hindu philosophy, the rituals associated with life and death, and the interplay between the sacred and the everyday, making it a place of profound learning and spiritual growth.

form

Tour FAQ

What are the key pilgrimage sites in Varanasi?

  • Varanasi is rich with significant pilgrimage sites, most notably the Kashi Vishwanath Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, the sacred ghats such as Dashashwamedh Ghat and Manikarnika Ghat where rituals and cremations take place, and Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon.

Are there any dress codes or conduct guidelines at religious sites in Varanasi?

  • Modest dress is recommended when visiting religious sites in Varanasi. Shoulders and knees should be covered, and shoes should be removed before entering temples. It's respectful to avoid loud conversations and to follow the specific customs of each site, such as not taking photos where prohibited.

Can people of all religions visit the temples in Varanasi?

  • Most temples in Varanasi are open to people of all faiths, but there are some exceptions where entry might be restricted to Hindus only, such as the inner sanctum of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Always check entry restrictions before planning your visit.

What should visitors be aware of when attending ceremonies at the ghats?

  • The ghats in Varanasi are places of active religious ceremonies and rituals, including cremations at Manikarnika Ghat. Visitors should maintain a respectful distance from ceremonies, avoid taking photographs of cremations, and refrain from intrusive behavior.

What is the best time of year to go on a pilgrimage to Varanasi?

  • The best time to visit Varanasi for pilgrimage is during the cooler months from October to March when the climate is more comfortable. Additionally, visiting during significant festivals like Dev Deepawali or Shivaratri can be particularly rewarding but also more crowded.