Varanasi Travel Guide

Varanasi India

Varanasi, also referred to as Benares, is mainly associated with Hinduism. Since ancient times, it has been the ultimate pilgrimage center for Hindus. It is believed that the holy river Ganga or Ganges in Varanasi has power to wash away the sins of mortals. Besides being a pilgrimage centre, the city has always had a special place for the devout Hindu. It is considered auspicious to die here that ensures Moksha or Salvation.

Varanasi is the center of learning and civilization for over 3000 years. Knowledge, philosophy, culture, devotion to Gods, Indian arts and crafts have flourished here for centuries.

Temples and Ghats are the main attraction of Varanasi. Theses Ghats at river Ganga are the main center of religious activities and rituals. Some of the most important temples of Varanasi are Durga temple, Vishwanath temple, Sankat Mochan temple, Tulsi Manas temple and the Bharat Mata temple.

Just 10 kilometers away from the city is Sarnath, the place where Buddha preached his first sermon after enlightenment. National emblem of India, the Ashoka pillar and numerous other remains of the past are housed at the archaeological museum at Sarnath.

Beside the holy waters of the river Ganga, the spiritual activities are performed. There are burning ghats along the water's edge, Manikarnika, being the most sacred one. Vishwanath Temple, the abode of Lord Shiva, is the major shrine of Varanasi.

The city is renowned for the finest types of hand woven silk fabrics. A Banaras silk sari or shawl is a traditional textile with beautiful motifs and patterns woven in gold or silver threads.

The Kashi Vishwanath temple , also known as the Golden temple, is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is said that Varanasi is the spot where the first Jyotirlinga, the fiery pillar of light, broke through the earth's crust and flared towards the heavens. Lord Shiva manifested his supremacy over other gods by this Jyotirlinga. The Shivalinga installed in the Kashi Vishwanath temple is the devotional focus of Varanasi.

Ghats of river Ganges at Varanasi are perhaps the holiest spots of pilgrim. Pilgrims flock to these Ghats and take a dip in the holy Ganges, which is believed to wash their sins. Since ages people have been thronging these Ghats to offer morning prayers to the rising sun. There are more than 100 ghats along side Ganga in Varanasi. Some of the most popular Ghats at Varanasi are the Dasaswamedh Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, Harischandra Ghat, Kabir Ghat and Assi Ghat.