Varanasi

Experience

The city of light is one of the oldest living cities in the world. The majestic city of Lord Shiva is often referred to as Kashi (city of light) or Banaras, and home to the renowned temple – Kashi Vishwanath. The city also houses one of the most sacred rivers, River Ganges. Many people come from different parts of India to take a dip in the holy Ganges, which is believed to banish all the sins from the body & the soul. Varanasi is a melting pot, where life & death comes together.

If you have not yet experienced the magical surroundings of Varanasi, and have not yet fallen for its charm, it is the time you must go & let yourself be lost in the chaotic narrow lanes of the energetic city, and find the essence of life.

History

Varuna & Assi are the two Ganges tributaries that give the city its name Varanasi. It is the holiest of seven sacred cities (Sapta puri) where one can get the liberation (Moksha) from life.

Legend says that the history of Varanasi dated back to the epic Mahabharata, where the princesses Ambika and Ambalika of Kashi wedded to the Hastinapur ruler Vichitravirya, later they gave birth to Pandu and Dhritarashtra.

It is also believed that Buddha has founded Buddhism here in this city where he gave his first sermon- The Setting in Motion of the Wheel of Dharma, thereafter, the luminous city of Kashi, considered as an eminent seat of learning.

The city is renowned as the hub of Indian culture, philosophy, traditions, and spiritual ethos since times immemorial. Apart from its holy & pilgrim activities, the temples at every corner, the Banarasi Silk Sarees, the elegant brocades, the narrow lanes, the street food give life to the city. The more you will explore it, the more you want to explore

Things to do (Activities)

Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Varanasi is renowned for its holiness & spirituality. It is said that you throw a stone, and it will be on a temple, blessed with the divine spirituality. Among the uncountable temples, Kashi Vishwanath is the biggest temple in Varanasi and dedicated to Lord Shiva. It was built by Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar of the Indore and today visited by thousands of devotees.

Sunrise Boat Ride on River Ganges

The boat ride at the dawn is an experience worth doing to witness the picturesque view of the city when it is in its most serene state. The rising sun, the golden Ganges, the illuminated ghats, and the glorious morning, give you the insight on how life starts with devotion, spirituality, and sacredness in Banaras.

Yoga

Varanasi has always remained a prominent place of learning for ages. You can get the peace of mind in the divine vicinity of the town, and, when it comes to healing your soul & body, yoga is the best practice you can learn here, or at least give a chance to yourself to get closer to your soul in the peaceful surroundings of this ancient town.

Ganga Aar

The Ganges is one of the most important aspects of Hinduism and has a great place in our lives, so do its worship. Ganga Aarti is a worth witnessing event where you can see thousands of diyas enhancing the beauty of the ghats, & the harmonized mantras chanted will be soothing not only your ears but the soul.

Ghat Sandhya

An event organized each evening (Sandhya) on the Gangamahal-Reewa Ghat, where the culture enthusiasts from different corner of the city, come together & bring the Sandhya to life. You can be the part of this magical & soulful musical journey where the cultural legacy of the city is showcased in a very artistic form which will surely blow away your mind.

Shopping

It is not less than a paradise for you if you love the fine handcrafted work. Varanasi is world-famous for its Banarasi Silk. Apart from the silk, the elegant brocades, the charm of hustling & bustling street markets, religious artifacts, attract thousands of visitors. Some of the must-visit bazaars are Thatheri Bazar, Vishwanath lane, & Godowlia market.

Explore The surroundings

Sarnath

Located about 10 km from Varanasi near the confluence of River Ganges & River Varuna, is the foundation of Buddhism. Sarnath is the place where Buddha gave his first penance about Dharma, after attaining enlightenment. Many stupas & statues dedicated to Buddha can be seen in the peaceful premises of the place, and the most prominent stupa is Chaukhandi Stupa.

Chandauli

Located about 30 KM North-East from Varanasi, Chandauli is blessed with the pristine beauty of nature, and if you want to get rid of the hustle & bustle of the city for a while, then this place is for you. It houses the stunning Rajdari and Devdari waterfalls offering a breath-taking view of the crystal-clear water gurgling over the rocks.

Stroll the Ghats

Strolling along the ghats is one of the experiences which you will cherish for long and crave to explore more and more. Varanasi is all about its ghats, which is the soul of the city. Once you start walking down the ghats, you will likely lose track of time as your senses are overwhelmed. Do not miss out to explore Assi Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, Dashashwamedh Ghat & Munshi Ghat while in Varanasi.

Banaras Hindu University

Banaras Hindu University is the largest residential university in Asia and the first university of India, which was established in 1916. The architecture of the campus is itself an attraction. A short visit to this university can unpuzzle your curiosity to know about the institute and its existence.

Accommodation

List of the Accommodations available at the Destination

Ganapati Guest House

Hotel Rivera Palace

Hotel Surya Kaiser Palace

HHI Varanasi

The Amayaa

Madin Varanasi

Suryauday Haveli

Brijrama Palace

Taj Nadesar Palace

Restaurants

Varanasi is not only recognized for its spirituality and divinity but a magical city beyond the imagination so does the food offered by this city. From the street cafes to the royal palace restaurants, the cuisines and its aroma are as satisfying as the chilled breezes, on the bank of holy Ganges.

Deena Chat Bhandar

If the local street food fascinates you then, Deena chat bhandar located on Dashashwamedh Ghat is a must to eat while in Varanasi. It serves the spicy flavors of street food of Varanasi, such as Chana Dahi vada, Laaiya Chana, Chooda Matar, Dahi Chutney Gol Gappe, etc.

Brown Bread Bakery

The small cafe with a rooftop area near Kashi Vishwanath temple is famous for the varieties of cheese it serves to its guest, along with the exquisite European breakfast made of organic grains and baked freshly. The cafe offers a panoramic view of the Ganges, in addition to a cozy air-conditioned indoor space.

Roof Top Restaurant

Located on Assi ghat, the Roof Top restaurant is a total justification to its name, and one of the best places, to gaze the mesmerizing view of river Ganges, giving a pleasant feel. The restaurant serves Chinese, Continental, & Indian cuisine, to its visitors, along with warm services.

Bowl of Compassion

A simple & decent restaurant is very much much for its home-cooked style food, and the warm services of the staff. The food will remind you of your home, and the rooftop setting enhances the charm of the dining.This restaurant also provides yoga classes to tourists.

Thandai at Blue Lassi Shop

Banarasi Thandai is famous for its refreshing taste, made from seasonal fruit puree, and served in a kulhad topped with Rabri, and flavored with rose essence, ice- cream, dry fruits, and nuts. You can also taste the twisted Thandai with the kick of bhang if you’re up to try it, which is consumed lovingly in Bhole Baba ki Nagri.

Deepak Tambul Bhandar

If you loved the legendary song Khai ke paan Banaras wala by Bachhan Ji, then there is no point if you go without trying the famous Banarasi Paan at Deepak Tambul Bhandar located on the Dashashwamedh Ghat. It is one of the best shops to taste the typical Banarasi paan, which can be handled by only a few.

Transportation

By Air

The Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport is located about 22 KM from Varanasi. Direct flights are available from Delhi, Agra, Khajuraho, Mumbai, & Lucknow.