Visitors to this city will find various attractions, from stunning architectural monuments to the divine Ganga Shanahan, which is said to cleanse the sins of the faithful. These 15 things of Varanasi contribute to the city’s distinct character.
Here are 15 fascinating facts about Varanasi:
1. The Aarti of the Divine Heart of Dashashwamedh
During the daily Ganga Aarti, it becomes abundantly clear that Dashashwamedh is one of the holiest ghats along the Ganges.
The incense fills the room, and the aartis, lit from inside, are hypnotic. This stunning spectacle may be seen from a boat on the river and is an unforgettable experience. Read More: Ganga Aarti Varanasi- The River Ganga offers a visual treat
2. Beautiful Ghats
Varanasi’s ghats are the city’s greatest draw; many of them were constructed by the Maratha Empire. There are more than eighty ghats scattered across the city, and each has its unique history.
The city of Varanasi itself was named after two of its most well-known ghats, the Varun Ghat and the Assi Ghat. Some ghats are used specifically for the ritual of cremation.
3. Riding The Ganges In A Boat
The boat trip down the Ganges is a popular activity for vacationers. This is a popular early-morning activity in Varanasi. An early morning boat trip is a great way to take in the views of Varanasi, including the city’s many Palaces and forts and the famous Ghats.
Sunrise and sunset boat rides are available. A boat trip on the sacred river at 5:30 in the morning is the best way to start the day. Furthermore, they go on till 8 in the morning—amazing dawn over the Ganges.
4. Divine At Varanasi’s Temples
Seeing temples in Varanasi is high on most visitors’ itineraries. Varanasi’s temples provide a direct line to the gods in the sacred country of gods. A temple occupies every square inch of the historic city.
The 18th-century Durga Temple, the Annapurna Temple, the Ankatha Temple, the Kalbhairav Temple, the Mritunjay Mahadev Temple, the Tulsi Manas Temple, the Sankatmochan Temple, the Bharat Mata Temple, and many more are other well-known places of worship. Read More: List of Most Famous Temples in Varanasi
5. Sightseeing The Sarnath Experience
Sightseeing Exploring Sarnath Varanasi is a major destination for Buddhists and Hindus on their spiritual journeys. Sarnath can be reached from Varanasi in a little over a half-hour.
The Dharmeth Stupa, constructed in 200 BC, is the primary attraction. It is 128 feet tall and has a diameter of 93 feet. The Ashoka pillar is covered with sculptures and depictions of numerous situations.
6. An Array Of Retail And Dining Options
After paying your respects to the gods, stroll through the markets of Godowlia and Vishwanath Gali in search of Banarasi saris, hand-knotted carpets, and fine woodwork.
You can eat around the globe in Varanasi, with its abundance of international restaurants, or stick close to home with some of the best street food in India (don’t miss Kachori Gali!).
7. Travellers To Varanasi Who Are On The Lookout For A Weaving Community
Weavers in Varanasi, India, are famous worldwide for their exquisite textiles. Sarai Mohana is a well-known silk weaving centre and is the hamlet where the textiles are produced.
The majority of women who wear these saris are Indian brides. The sari is a work of art that takes at least a week to make and often takes up to six months.
8. Tempting Celebrations and Markets
Like every other pilgrimage site, Varanasi is well-known for its many religious celebrations and markets throughout the year. Maha Shivratri is a one-day celebration that draws many people to the city.
Diwali, Rangbhari Ekadashi, Ram Leela, Ganga Dussehra, Annakut, Shravan Maah, Makar Sankranti, etc., are other well-attended celebrations in the city. Dhrupad Mela, Kumbh Mela, Sarnath Fair, and Vaisakhi Mela are four of the most significant religious fairs in the world.
Read Also: 11 Most Popular Markets for Shopping in Varanasi
9. Witness The Buddhist Rescue Attempt
Sarnath, around 13 kilometres from the picturesque city of Varanasi, is home to the stupa Dhamek, both spectacular and large. Ascetics are claimed to have been buried in the stupas’ original form, a sitting posture called chaitya, before the advent of Buddhism. Immediately upon Buddha’s attaining Nirvana (Liberation), his body is reported to have been incinerated.
The original Dhamek Stupa was supposedly commissioned by the renowned and well-recognized Mauryan ruler Ashoka, and its construction can be traced back to 500 CE.
10. Entertaining Musical Performances
In addition to its spiritual significance, the music of Varanasi has the power to uplift and inspire. Many distinct musical traditions originated in Varanasi. Tabla, flutes, sitar, and sarods will all be played, and their melodies will captivate you. Intoxicating musical ragas are taught at some music schools.
Music Paradise Hall, Gulabbarievent, Ganga Mahotsav, and the Mahindra Kabira Musical Event are just a few venues hosting musical performances here. Shehnai master Ustad Bismillah Khan, classical vocalist Girija Devi, and Sitar virtuoso Pandit Ravi Shankar are three of the most famous musicians in the world.
11. Take a Trip to the Ancient Ramnagar Fort
The magnificent Ramnagar Fort, constructed by Kashi Naresh, is on the western bank of the Ganges. Superb photo opportunities may be found on a boat trip off Dashashmeveda Ghat. The Saraswati Museum is a must-see attraction in the Ramnagar Fort.
The museum is decorated with various antique American automobiles, sedan chairs, and ivory sculptures. On the tenth day, to celebrate the triumph of good over evil, the effigies of the demon king Ravana are burnt.
12. Go To The Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum
This is Madan Mohan Malviya’s Bharat Kala Bhavan, constructed at Banaras Hindu University. More than a million objects from diverse cultures are on display at Bharat Kala Bhavan, including Buddhist and Hindu sculptures, manuscripts, paintings, brocade textiles, Mughal miniatures, pictures, a contemporary art form, bronze statues, terracotta beads, pottery, craft, ivory goods, jewellery, and a rare collection of Rajasthani, Gujarati, and Pahari miniature paintings.
13. Follow One of the Silk
The silk from Varanasi is renowned all over the globe. As a status symbol of exquisite taste, Benaras silk is the product of many hours of labour by skilled artisans.
One may purchase saris and textiles at the Mehta International Silk Weaving Centre in Cantonment, which are guaranteed to become family treasures and be admired for centuries.
14. Use The Malviya Bridge To Go Over The Ganges
It’s a huge river crossing, for sure. The bridge has two levels; the bottom has the train track, while a major thoroughfare occupies the higher one.
15. Enjoy A Religious Dip In The Heavenly Ganges River
Many pilgrims go to this sacred city hoping to have their sins miraculously washed away. The city also plays home to the annual Kumbh Mela (Grand Pitcher Festival of India) on time.
Therefore, if you’re looking for answers to life’s big questions while also taking a dip in the River Ganges, you’ve found the right place.
Conclusion
It is often considered the oldest continuously inhabited city and the most religious of sacred towns. Varanasi has been a centre of study and spirituality for a long time. It goes by several names, including Kashi, Avimukta, and Benaras.
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