Exploring the Colourful City of Varanasi: A Traveler’s Guide
You’ve seen the pictures: temples perched atop ghats, sacred cows grazing on the banks of the Ganges, pilgrims taking a holy dip. This is Varanasi, one of the holiest cities in India and one of the most mesmerizing places on Earth. It’s a city that’s full of contradictions: it’s at once ancient and modern, chaotic and serene, dirty and sacred. But that’s what makes Varanasi so special. It’s a place where you can lose yourself in the magic of it all. If you’re planning to visit Varanasi, this article is for you. We’ll give you all the information you need to make the most of your time there, including tips on where to stay, what to see, and how to get around.
Table of Contents
Overview of Varanasi
Varanasi, located in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, is one of the world’s oldest cities. Said to be sacred to Hindus, Buddhists and Jains, it’s a living cultural centre where old and new peacefully coexist. The city is famous for its ghats (riverfront steps), which locals and pilgrims use to perform religious ceremonies and bathe in the Ganges River. It’s also an important place of Hindu pilgrimage, attracting millions of visitors every year. If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination with plenty of spiritual vibes, Varanasi is worth adding to your travel list.
Explore the Ghats of Varanasi
The ghats of Varanasi are one of its most popular tourist attractions. As you walk along the riverfront, you’ll see people bathing, performing religious rituals, and burning cremations. The sights and smells are truly unique experiences that you won’t find anywhere else in the world. It’s worth exploring the ghats, but be careful not to get lost in the chaos. There’s a lot to take in, and it’s easy to get overwhelmed. If you’re not used to the heat and humidity, be sure to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated. It’s also a good idea to wear sunscreen and a hat since you’ll be exposed to the sun for extended periods.
Tour Through the Temples of Varanasi
When in Varanasi, make sure to take a tour of the temples. There’s no better way to experience the city’s spiritual side than by exploring its religious sites. The Sarnath Temple is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Varanasi. It’s dedicated to Lord Buddha and is said to be the place where he first preached after gaining enlightenment. The temple is known for its intricate carvings and is a must-see for anyone visiting the city.
Another popular temple is the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the most sacred sites in all of India. It’s said that anyone who visits the temple and utters the name “Kashi” will be absolved of all their sins. If you’re looking to experience religious history and culture, make sure to visit the temples of Varanasi.
Enjoy Varanasi’s Unique Cuisine
Your visit to Varanasi won’t be complete unless you sample the unique cuisine offered by this ancient city. Of course, the legendary cuisine of India is known for its spicy curries and flavorful dishes, and Varanasi will not disappoint in that regard. But it’s also possible to find sweet, savoury, and tart flavours here as well. There is no shortage of restaurants to explore in Varanasi, from street-side food stalls to locals serving up delicious meals from their family kitchens to fine-dining establishments overlooking the river.
If you want a truly unique experience, try some of the sweet desserts called ladoos or try some of the savoury breakfast dishes such as kachoris. For something truly different, try the local speciality called aloo tikki – a spicy potato patty served with mint chutney. No matter what type of food you’re in the mood for, you’re sure to find something delicious in Varanasi!
Uncover the Secrets of Sarnath
Take a detour to the nearby town of Sarnath, a place steeped in mythology and ancient history. It’s said that this is the spot where Buddha gave his first sermon and set off the wheels of Buddhism over 2600 years ago. As you explore Sarnath, you’ll be amazed by the array of monuments and monasteries found here. The Dhamekha Stupa is an important site located at Sarnath, believed to be where Buddha preached his first sermon and marked the start of Buddhism. Other impressive structures include the Chaukhandi Stupa and Digambara Jain Temple.
The stupas here are intricately carved with symbols and stories from their respective religions – it’s almost as if time has stood still for them! Take your time exploring Sarnath as there are many secrets to uncover here. Lose yourself in its quiet magnificence as you learn more about its rich past; it’s an interesting journey into India’s fascinating history that you won’t forget!
Where to Stay in Varanasi
Varanasi is filled with a range of accommodations to suit every budget. If you’re looking for an affordable place to stay, there are plenty of budget-friendly options in the city. From homestays and hostels to guest houses and luxury hotels, you’ll find something that fits your style. For a bit of local flavour, consider staying at one of the many traditional homestays run by local Varanasi families. These provide a unique opportunity to get to know the culture and people of Varanasi while also having all the comforts of home.
For a more luxurious experience, you can book a room at one of the hotels perched on the banks of the Ganges River. A stay here will offer magnificent views as well as easy access to popular tourist attractions such as temples, ghats or shops. No matter where you choose to stay in Varanasi, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience in this mystical city!
If you’re looking to get lost in the ethereal beauty of India, Varanasi is the place to be. With its ornate Ghats, a vast array of religious temples, and flavoursome cuisine, Varanasi is a city that will leave you spellbound.
