Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Banaras, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and is considered the spiritual capital of India. Situated on the banks of the sacred river Ganges in Uttar Pradesh, it holds immense significance for Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains. Here’s an overview:
Historical and Cultural Significance.
Major Attractions
Culture and Traditions
Cuisine
Varanasi offers a mix of traditional and street food, including:
Modern Infrastructure
Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Banaras, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and is considered the spiritual capital of India. Situated on the banks of the sacred river Ganges in Uttar Pradesh, it holds immense significance for Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains. Here’s an overview:
Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport
Location About 26 km from the city center
ConnectivityLal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, also known as Varanasi Airport, has both domestic and limited international flights. It connects Varanasi with major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata, as well as international destinations like Bangkok and Colombo.
Varanasi Junction (Varanasi Cantt Railway Station)
Location Approximately 4 km from the city center
ConnectivityVaranasi Junction, also known as Varanasi Cantt Railway Station, is a major railway hub connecting Varanasi with all major cities across India. Trains ply regularly to Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and other significant destinations.
PT. Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Junction
Location Approximately 16 km from the Kashi Vishwanath Temple
ConnectivityMughalsarai Junction is one of the busiest railway stations in the region and a major railway division under East Central Railway. It serves as a crucial junction for trains heading to and from northern, eastern, and central India.
Varanasi Bus Stand (Cantt Bus Station)
Location Situated around 3 km from the city center
ConnectivityThe Cantt Bus Station primarily serves long-distance routes connecting Varanasi with major cities in Uttar Pradesh and neighboring states. Buses ply to destinations such as Allahabad, Lucknow, and Patna.
Varanasi Bus Stand (Rathyatra Bus Station)
Location Approximately 4 km from the city center
ConnectivityRathyatra Bus Station is another major hub catering to both short and long-distance routes. Buses from this station connect Varanasi with nearby towns and cities.
The spiritual capital of the country, Varanasi is a no-holds barred sensorial and wholesome experience. Also known as Benares or Kashi, this city on the banks of the holy Ganges is home to fascinating sites and delectable bites. Let us show you some of the best places to visit in Varanasi.
Sarnath is where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon to his followers after attaining Enlightenment. The area houses a museum, deer park and holy stupas. It is hugely renowned among the best places to visit in Varanasi.
This is the oldest site museum of the Archaeological Survey of India. Its single most important exhibit is the Lion Capital of Ash oka, a sandstone sculpture created and erected around 250 BC and of major importance to followers of Buddhism. This inspiring museum contains over 6,500 artefacts and sculptures and a visit here is one of the best things to do in Varanasi.
The Banaras Hindu University is home to one of the biggest tourist spots in Varanasi, the grand New Vishwanath Temple. Although pr imarily a Lord Shiva temple, this beautiful temple consists of nine other temples within one and welcomes people of every faith.
The quintessential Varanasi experience is a boat ride along the Ganges. It runs through the city and there are numerous ghats that connect the river to the land. Boat rides are available from early morning until the Ganges aarti at sunset. An absolute must on your visit to Varanasi.
Alaknanda is a double-decker cruise liner which plies its way along the Ganges comfortably carrying around 100 passengers. It is equipped with 60 luxurious sofas, an air-conditioned lower deck and a well-equipped kitchen serving vegetarian food. Both morning and evening cruises of the ghats are available.
Located on the East Bank of the Ganges, the fort is easily accessed via a bridge. Try visiting late evenings for spectacular sunsets. The fort also houses a museum containing American vintage cars, bejewelled sedan chairs, ivory work, medieval costumes, gold and silver brocaded royal palakis, or sedan chairs.
Some of the most beautiful and significant temples in India are here in Varanasi and just a short drive from Taj Ganges. Visit the for their history, their religious importance or simply for their stunning architecture. These are some of the most popular tourist places in Varanasi.
The largest structure on the banks of the Ganges was built by a Mughal emperor during the Mughal invasion of India. It is of great importance to Muslims and can only be entered by followers of Islam. The architectural excellence on the outside makes it one of the best places to visit in Varanasi.
Each evening, boats on the Ganges converge at the Dashashwamedh Ghat for the magical Sandhya aarti. The aarti was first performed when Lord Shiva visited Varanasi and is accompanied by chants of holy mantras and the clashing of cymbals, the vibrations of which reach deep inside purifying the self. One of the most popular tourist places in Varanasi.
