9 Amazing Places To Visit In Varanasi
By: Sandeep Gupta Fri, 25 Oct 2024 4:26:24
There are numerous motivations for traveling, and if you're considering visiting a sacred site with historical importance, why not choose Varanasi? This ancient city is home to remarkable locations that will leave you with cherished memories during your visit.
Situated along the banks of the majestic Ganges River, Varanasi holds a special place in Hindu belief, as it is thought that bathing in the river cleanses one of all sins.
# River Ganges
The River Ganges is sacred to Hindus, who believe it has the power to cleanse them of sins. A visit to this river should be on your itinerary while in Varanasi.
You’ll enjoy strolling along the river, which is always bustling with activity. Taking a ferry ride at sunrise or sunset offers breathtaking views.
The vibrant culture surrounding the river is captivating, especially in the evenings when candles are lit and flowers are offered. These sights are not to be missed.
It's a unique experience to observe the various everyday activities happening in full view of the public.
# Sarnath
Located just 10 km from Varanasi, Sarnath is renowned as the site of Buddha's first sermon after attaining enlightenment at Bodh Gaya.
Emperor Ashoka, a devoted follower of Buddhism, constructed a stupa at Sarnath around 234 BC, and in the following centuries, additional structures were built. The tallest statue of Buddha in India is located here, attracting many visitors throughout the year.
# Manikarnika Ghat
Manikarnika Ghat is the most famous ghat in Varanasi, known as a cremation site for Hindus. If you wish to witness the continuous cremations that take place here, this is the ideal location.
Visiting this site will offer you a profound perspective on life and death, as you observe the stark reality of the cremation rituals.
While the experience of witnessing numerous cremations may be intense, it provides a unique understanding of life's cycle.
# Man Mandir Ghat
Man Mandir Ghat is another historic ghat in Varanasi that showcases the architectural beauty of the Rajput style.
Constructed in the 1600s by Raja Man Singh of Jaipur, the ghat also features an observatory built later by Sawai Jai Singh.
If you have an interest in astronomy, you will appreciate the astronomical instruments on display here.
# Ramnagar Fort
Ramnagar Fort, built in 1750 AD by the former King of Varanasi, is constructed from red stone and is known for its astronomical significance.
The palace houses a large clock that displays the day, week, month, year, and various celestial events.
It also contains a museum filled with a fascinating collection of swords, palanquins, costumes, and more. The fort exemplifies a remarkable blend of architectural beauty and astronomical knowledge.
# Chunar Fort
Chunar Fort, situated on the banks of the Ganges River, is located about 40 km from Varanasi and spans an impressive 34,000 square feet. It is known for its rich history and was originally built by King Vikramaditya of Ujjain for his brother Bharthari.
This fort holds historical significance, having served as a strategic post during the conflicts between Humayun and Sher Shah. It has been under the control of various rulers, with the East India Company eventually taking charge. Varanasi is a wonderful destination to spend a vacation with loved ones, offering insights into life and death through its religious practices and remarkable attractions. This city is steeped in cultural heritage and ancient history.
# Assi Ghat
Assi Ghat, located at the confluence of the River Ganga and Assi, is a holy site where devotees bathe before paying homage to a large Shivalingam under a nearby tree.
Situated in the southern part of the city, this ghat is less crowded than others, but it is equally significant.
# Alamgir Mosque
Alamgir Mosque is celebrated for its beautiful architecture and stunning location on the banks of the River Ganga.
Built by Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, who is believed to have destroyed the ancient Kashi Vishwanath Temple to construct this mosque, it showcases a blend of Islamic and North Indian architectural styles, also known as Gyanvapi Mosque due to its proximity to the original temple site.
Visitors can appreciate the architectural impact that reflects both Hindu and Islamic influences.
# Panchganga Ghat
Panchganga Ghat is revered as the meeting point of five sacred rivers: Ganga, Saraswati, Yamuna, Kirana, and Dhutpapa.
Numerous devotees visit to seek blessings from these five deities, represented by five figures made of black stone.
From the ghat, you can also see the Alamgir Mosque, which was built by Aurangzeb.
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