Vindhyavasini Tour and Travels
Varanasi
About Varanasi
Unveiling the Spiritual and Cultural Gems: Must-Visit Places in Varanasi
Varanasi, the ancient city on the banks of the Ganges, is a sensory and spiritual journey. It’s a place where life and death intertwine, where ancient traditions thrive, and where the spiritual energy is palpable. To truly experience Varanasi, you need to immerse yourself in its vibrant atmosphere and explore its diverse attractions. Here’s a guide to the must-visit places in Varanasi:
The Ghats: The Soul of Varanasi
No visit to Varanasi is complete without exploring its iconic ghats. These steps leading down to the Ganges are the heart and soul of the city, offering a glimpse into its daily life, religious rituals, and spiritual practices.
Dashashwamedh Ghat
Known for the spectacular Ganga Aarti ceremony held every evening, Dashashwamedh Ghat is a vibrant hub of activity. The Aarti is a mesmerizing spectacle of light, sound, and devotion, attracting thousands of visitors.
Manikarnika Ghat
One of the most sacred ghats, Manikarnika Ghat is a cremation ground where Hindus believe dying and being cremated here liberates them from the cycle of rebirth. The constant presence of funeral pyres is a stark reminder of the impermanence of life. It’s a somber but essential experience to witness the cycle of life and death.
Assi Ghat
Located at the confluence of the Ganges and Assi rivers, Assi Ghat is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. It’s known for its morning rituals, cultural performances, and boat rides. It’s a great place to start your day with a peaceful sunrise view.
Harishchandra Ghat
Another important cremation ghat, associated with the legend of King Harishchandra, known for his unwavering truthfulness.
Lalita Ghat
Notable for the Nepali temple located here, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It reflects Nepalese architectural influences.
Panchganga Ghat
Believed to be the meeting point of five rivers (Ganga, Yamuna, Saraswati, Kirana, and Dhutpapa). A significant site for religious rituals.
Kedar Ghat
Distinguished by its colorful architecture, resembling the Kedar Temple in the Himalayas.
Tailored Transportation Solutions for Every Need
The Temples: Abodes of the Divine
Varanasi is home to countless temples, each dedicated to different deities and reflecting various architectural styles.
Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Kashi Vishwanath Temple is the most important temple in Varanasi and one of the twelve Jyotirlingas (holy shrines of Shiva) in India. The temple has a long and complex history, having been rebuilt several times. Non-Hindus may face restrictions.
Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple
Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, this temple is one of the most revered in Varanasi. Thousands of devotees visit to offer prayers and seek blessings. Keep an eye out for the playful monkeys!
Durga Temple
Dedicated to Goddess Durga, this temple is known for its red ochre color and the presence of numerous monkeys within the temple complex.
Bharat Mata Temple
A unique temple dedicated to Bharat Mata (Mother India), featuring a relief map of undivided India. It symbolizes patriotism and national unity.
- Tulsi Manas Temple Dedicated to Lord Rama, it's located near Durga Kund and features scenes from the Ramcharitmanas, the Hindi version of the Ramayana
Sarnath: The Site of Buddha's First Sermon
Located just a few kilometers from Varanasi, Sarnath is a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site. It’s the place where Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment.
Dhamek Stupa
A massive stone structure marking the spot where Buddha delivered his first sermon.
Dharmarajika Stupa
An ancient stupa, partially destroyed, but still holding historical significance.
Sarnath Archaeological Museum
Houses a collection of artifacts discovered at the Sarnath site, including sculptures, pottery, and inscriptions.
Mulagandha Kuti Vihara
A modern temple built by the Mahabodhi Society, featuring beautiful murals depicting scenes from the Buddha's life.
Other Notable Attractions
Banaras Hindu University (BHU)
One of the largest residential universities in Asia, BHU is known for its beautiful campus and its diverse faculties, including those for arts, sciences, and technology. The Bharat Kala Bhavan museum within BHU houses a rich collection of Indian art and archaeology.
Ramnagar Fort
Located on the opposite bank of the Ganges, the Ramnagar Fort is the ancestral home of the Maharaja of Varanasi. The fort houses a museum with a collection of vintage cars, costumes, and weapons.
New Vishwanath Temple (Birla Temple)
Located within the BHU campus, this modern temple is a replica of the original Kashi Vishwanath Temple. It's open to all, regardless of religion or caste.
Man Mandir Observatory
Built in the 17th century by Raja Man Singh, this observatory features astronomical instruments.
Tips for Exploring Varanasi
- Best Time to Visit: October to March (winter months)
- Transportation: Auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws, and boats are the common modes of transport.
- Dress Code: Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples.
- Footwear: Remove shoes before entering temples.
- Bargaining: Bargain respectfully with auto-rickshaw drivers and shopkeepers.
- Photography: Ask for permission before taking photos of people or religious ceremonies.
- Respect Local Customs: Be mindful of local customs and traditions.
- Be Aware of Touts: Be cautious of touts offering unsolicited services.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of bottled water.
- Be Prepared for Crowds: Varanasi can be crowded, especially during festivals and peak season.
Well-Maintained Vehicles for a Comfortable Journey
Our Fleet
We maintain a modern and well-maintained fleet of vehicles to ensure a comfortable and safe journey for our passengers. Our fleet includes
Sedans
Ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small families. Our sedans are comfortable, fuel-efficient, and equipped with air conditioning and entertainment systems.
SUVs
Perfect for families or groups with luggage. Our SUVs offer ample space and comfort, making them ideal for long journeys.
Luxury Cars
Experience the ultimate in comfort and style with our luxury cars. These vehicles are equipped with premium amenities and are perfect for business travelers or special occasions.
Tempo Travelers
Suitable for larger groups of up to 12 people. These vehicles offer comfortable seating and ample luggage space, making them ideal for group tours and outstation trips.
Buses
Our buses accommodate up to 45 passengers, offering comfortable seating, air conditioning, and entertainment systems—perfect for corporate events, weddings, and group tours.
All our vehicles are regularly inspected and maintained to ensure they meet the highest safety standards. We also equip our vehicles with GPS tracking systems to monitor their location and ensure the safety of our passengers.
Beyond the Tourist Trail
- Take a Boat Ride on the Ganges: A sunrise or sunset boat ride along the Ganges offers a unique perspective of the city and its ghats.
- Explore the Narrow Lanes (Galis): Wander through the labyrinthine lanes of the old city, discovering hidden temples, shops, and homes.
- Attend a Classical Music Performance: Immerse yourself in the city's rich musical heritage.
- Try the Local Street Food: Sample the delicious and diverse street food offerings, but be mindful of hygiene.
- Interact with the Locals: Engage in conversations with the people of Varanasi to learn about their lives, beliefs, and traditions.
Varanasi is more than just a collection of tourist attractions; it’s a living, breathing city with a soul that resonates with spirituality and tradition. By exploring its ghats, temples, and backstreets, and by interacting with its people, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of this ancient and enchanting city.