Exploring the Ancient City of Varanasi: A Comprehensive Guide
Exploring the Ancient City of Varanasi: A Comprehensive Guide
Varanasi, also known as Benares or Kashi, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. It is a sacred city for Hindus, Jains, and Buddhists. Located on the banks of the river Ganges, Varanasi is known for its ghats, narrow alleys, ancient temples, and rich cultural heritage. Exploring this ancient city can be an incredible experience for travelers who are interested in history, culture, spirituality, and photography. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know to make the most of your trip to Varanasi. Exploring the Ancient City of Varanasi: A Comprehensive Guide
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When to Visit Varanasi
Varanasi is a city that can be visited throughout the year, but the best time to visit is between October and March when the weather is pleasant and cool. During the summer months of April to June, the temperature can rise up to 40°C, making it unbearable for travelers who are not used to hot weather. Monsoon season, from July to September, can be unpredictable, with heavy rainfall and flooding in some parts of the city. Exploring the Ancient City of Varanasi: A Comprehensive Guide
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Things to Do in Varanasi
1. Visit the Ghats: The ghats of Varanasi are a series of steps leading down to the banks of the river Ganges. There are over 80 ghats in Varanasi, each with its own significance and history. The most popular ones are Dasaswamedh Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, and Assi Ghat. The ghats are a great place to take a boat ride, watch the sunrise or sunset, and witness the daily rituals and ceremonies that take place here. Exploring the Ancient City of Varanasi: A Comprehensive Guide
2. Explore the Temples: Varanasi is home to many ancient temples, each with its own unique architecture and history. The most famous temple in Varanasi is the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Other notable temples include the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, the Durga Temple, and the Tulsi Manas Temple. Exploring the Ancient City of Varanasi: A Comprehensive Guide
3. Attend the Ganga Aarti: The Ganga Aarti is a daily ritual performed at the Dashashwamedh Ghat in the evening. It is a beautiful and mesmerizing ceremony where priests light lamps and chant prayers in honor of the river Ganges. It is a must-attend event for travelers who want to experience the spirituality and culture of Varanasi. Exploring the Ancient City of Varanasi: A Comprehensive Guide
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4. Walk through the narrow alleys of Varanasi: Varanasi is known for its narrow alleys, which are a maze of shops, stalls, and houses. Walking through these alleys is a great way to explore the city and get a glimpse of the local life and culture. Some of the popular alleys in Varanasi are Kachauri Gali, Vishwanath Gali, and Godowlia Chowk. Exploring the Ancient City of Varanasi: A Comprehensive Guide
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5. Visit the Banaras Hindu University: The Banaras Hindu University is one of the oldest and largest universities in India. It is spread across 1,300 acres and is home to many historic buildings, gardens, and museums. The university also has a beautiful Vishwanath Temple, which is a replica of the original Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Exploring the Ancient City of Varanasi: A Comprehensive Guide
Accommodation in Varanasi
Varanasi has a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. The ghats area has many guesthouses and lodges, which offer affordable accommodation with a view of the river Ganges. The city center has many hotels and resorts, which offer comfortable and luxurious stay options. Exploring the Ancient City of Varanasi: A Comprehensive Guide
Getting to Varanasi
Varanasi can be reached by air, train, or bus. The nearest airport is Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, which is 23 km from the city center. The airport is well connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata. Varanasi Junction is the main railway station in the city and is well connected to other parts of the country. The city is also well connected by road, with regular bus services from neighboring cities and states. Exploring the Ancient City of Varanasi: A Comprehensive Guide
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Conclusion
Exploring the ancient city of Varanasi is a unique and unforgettable experience. From the ghats to the temples, the narrow alleys to the Banaras Hindu University, the city has something for every kind of traveler. We hope this comprehensive guide helps you plan your trip to Varanasi and makes your journey a memorable one. Exploring the Ancient City of Varanasi: A Comprehensive Guide
