The city of Gods, is situated on the banks of the holy River Ganga. This city is part of the seven sacred cities in Jainism and Hinduism. Varanasi is also known as Kashi and Banaras. It is located in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh. The place is flooded with temples and pilgrims all around the year.
Varanasi is also called the spiritual capital of India. People from all around the world come here for some spiritual enlightenment, knowledge and much more. This city also played an important role in developing Buddhism. Varanasi is also famous for its silk fabrics, muslin, ivory work, sculptures and perfumes. Besides this, here is a list of things you should do when visiting this holy city.
1 Prayag Ghat
This Ghat is one of the most visited and significant Ghats in Varanasi. It is always crowded with devotees trying to offer their prayers to the Ganges. Prayag Ghat was built by Balaji Bajiroa in the year of 1778. This Ghat is an imitation of the holy city of Prayag in Allahabad. Here you will find priests, fortune tellers, vendors and many other people.
2 Chet Singh Ghat
This Ghat witnesses the brutal battle between the troupes of Warren Hastings and Chet Singh’s army in the year of 1781. Initially the Ghat was identified as “Khirki Ghat”; and now it has four parts to it called, Niranjani Ghat, Shivala Ghat, Cheta Singh Ghat and Nirvani Ghat. There is a seven day long festival called the Budhwa Mangal celebrated here.
3 Ramnagar Fort
This historic yet gorgeous fort is located about 14 kms away from the main city of Varanasi. Maharaja of Banaras resides in the Ramnagar Fort. This red sandstone fort was built in the eighteenth century by Maharaja Balwant Singh. Here you will find a temple devoted to Ved Vyasa, who wrote the great Indian epic, Mahabharata. There is also a museum in the grounds of the fort.
4 Boat Ride in Ganges
Going for a ride in the holy water at dawn, is one of the best things to do in Varanasi. During the first light, the river is calm and quiet. Looking at the birds flying over you and admiring the sunset, is a picture perfect view. It can rejuvenate your mind and soul. The best time to go for a ride is between 5:30 am to 8 am.
5 Morning and Evening Aarti
The morning in Varanasi is welcomed by offering prayers to the holy Ganga. Numerous priests dressed in dhotis offer their prayer just before the sun rises on the horizon. The priests also offer their prayers during sunset. The Dashaswamedh Ghat is swamped with people, as all of them are present there for the evening aarti. The evening aarti is an extravagant ritual with fire, dance, and much more. The shore is lit up with huge flaming lamps and you can smell the fragrance of sandalwood surrounding the entire Ghat.
People visit Varanasi for a spiritually illuminating experience. It is a beautiful destination one must visit.
