Varanasi, located in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh and dating back to the 11th century B.C., is considered the spiritual capital of India. Pilgrims from the Hindu faith flock to this city to partake in rituals, including bathing in the sacred waters of the Ganges River and performing funeral rites. The winding streets of Banaras are adorned with approximately 2,000 temples, including the renowned Kashi Vishwanath, also known as the “Golden Temple,” dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva.
VIEW OF KASHI VISHWANATH TEMPLE VARANASI
ABOUT BANARAS THE SPIRITUAL HEART OF INDIA
Also known as Benares, Banaras, or Kashi, Varanasi holds a central place in the Hindu world’s traditions of pilgrimage, death, and mourning. The city boasts a syncretic tradition of Muslim artistry, contributing to its significance in religious tourism. Situated in the middle Ganges valley in the southeastern part of Uttar Pradesh, Banaras lies on the left bank of the river, approximately 692 kilometers southeast of New Delhi and 320 kilometers southeast of Lucknow.
Positioned 121 kilometers downstream of Prayagraj, another major Hindu pilgrimage site, where the Ganges meets the Yamuna River. The only place where death is also celebrated. It’s a different experience to see the burning dead bodies and Pooja of the Ganges on the same ghats. crowed of Naga sadhu’s , pilgrims, and lots of devotees, if you want to witness the sound of Ganga aarti and the mourning in the same place same time , experience another level of spiritual energy visit here at once in life.
Varanasi, also known as Kashi, has been an enduring pilgrimage destination for Hindus through the ages. According to Hindu beliefs, those fortunate enough to breathe their last on the sacred land of Varanasi are destined to attain salvation, breaking free from the cycle of reincarnation. With its status as the abode of Lord Shiva and Parvati, the exact origins of Varanasi remain shrouded in mystery.
“People say who came to Banaras don’t want to leave the place forever. lots of foreigners especially from the USA used to come here every year, these all are the people who are seeking inner peace and spirituality”. There is a saying “Those who came here have stayed here.”
As the heart of the Bhojpuri cultural region, Banaras stands as one of the world’s oldest continually inhabited cities. With its ancient name, Kashi, associated with a kingdom from 2,500 years ago, the city has a rich historical tapestry. Notably, the Lion capital of Ashoka at Sarnath nearby commemorates Buddha’s first sermon in the fifth century BCE. Banaras has been a hub for cultural and spiritual luminaries, including Adi Shankara, who established the worship of Shiva in the 8th century, and Tulsidas, who composed the Ramcharitmanas in the same city.
HISTORICAL IMPORTANCE
Throughout history, Banaras has witnessed the influence of various rulers, including Rajput nobles sponsored by the Mughal emperor Akbar in the 16th century. Under the Treaty of Faizabad, the East India Company acquired Varanasi in 1775, marking its subsequent inclusion in various administrative divisions until India gained independence. Beyond its religious and economic aspects, Banaras has been a historical center for education and music.
The city has nurtured prominent philosophers, poets, writers, and musicians, contributing to the development of the Banaras Gharana in Hindustani classical music. Educational institutions like the Benares Sanskrit College, Central Hindu College founded by Annie Besant, and Banaras Hindu University established in 1916 underscore Varanasi’s enduring role in shaping India’s cultural and educational landscape.
The Temples And the Banaras Ghats
The city is renowned for its ghats, where pilgrims engage in rituals along the riverbanks, with notable locations like Dashashwamedh Ghat, Panchganga Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, and Harishchandra Ghat. Varanasi is also home to significant temples, such as the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, and Durga Temple.Varanasi’s economic landscape includes silk weaving, carpets, crafts, and tourism, providing employment for a significant portion of the local population
Kashi Vishwanath Temple
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple holds immense spiritual significance. Devotees from various corners of the world visit this sacred site, dedicated to Lord Shiva, seeking spiritual enlightenment and divine blessings. The temple is considered a powerful center for meditation and prayer, fostering a deep connection with the divine.
Its ancient architecture and religious aura contribute to a spiritual ambiance, making it a revered destination for those on a spiritual journey. The rituals and ceremonies conducted at Kashi Vishwanath Temple further enhance its spiritual allure, offering a profound experience for those who seek solace and a connection with higher realms.
KASHI VISHWANATH TEMPLE SHIVLING DARSHAN
How To Reach
Delhi to Varanasi Flight- Delhi is the known airport nearer to Varanasi. people from other parts of country or the foreign travelers may first visit the Delhi airport and take flights to Varanasi.
Travelling Time by flight – 1 to 1.30 hr.
Fare – 4k to 5k( economic)depending upon the Airline and class fares may be subjected to varied.
Other options– There are a lot of options available to go to Varanasi from Delhi like trains, buses , and taxis you may choose one according to your convenience.
Where To Stay in Varanasi ?
There are a lot of options available to stay there. You may book online according to your predefined preferences or may book directly to visit their place. The cost of stay would be according to what kind of property you choose. From Small lodges, hotels , and homestay to the luxury Heritage one.
Small lodge and hotels – starts from 1k
Luxury Heritage stay- If you want to experience the royal treat you may visit
-TAJ NADESAR PALACE
-TAJ GANGES
– THE BRIJRAMA PALACE VARANASI
The BrijRama Palace is luxury heritage stay to experience the royal treatment.
Stay Cost– 35k to 80k per night
Glimpse of The Brijrama Palace Site
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS?
Why Varanasi is famous?
Varanasi is famous for The Kashi Vishwanath Temple,The Ganga ghats , spirituality,inner peace, and salvation.Hindu beliefs, those fortunate enough to breathe their last on the sacred land of Varanasi are destined to attain salvation, breaking free from the cycle of reincarnation.
Why Varanasi is called city of Temples?
Because it has more then 2000 Temples across the city including The Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
Why Varanasi is called Banaras?
Varanasi was renamed Banaras by Akbar, which is Sanskrit for “the city of light.”
Why Varanasi is called Kashi?
In the Mahabharata and ancient India, the city is referred to as Kasi (काशी: Kashi) from the Sanskrit verbal root kaś- “to shine”, making Varanasi known as “The City of Light”, the “luminous city as an eminent seat of learning”. The name was also used by pilgrims dating from Buddha’s days.
Why Varanasi is known as city of lights?
This etymology imparts the title “City of Light” to Varanasi, signifying its prominence as a radiant center of knowledge , culture and spirituality.
Varanasi is in which state?
Uttar Pradesh (India).
Varanasi pincode ?
221001
Famous Ghats of Varanasi ?
Assi Ghat. Assi Ghat is also called ‘Saimbeda Tirtha’, which is one of the most prominent ghats in Varanasi. Others are Manikarnika Ghat, Dashashwamedh Ghat, Ahilya Ghat, Tulsi Ghat, Kedar Ghat, Ganga Mahal Ghat. , Chet Singh Ghat.
Distance from Delhi to Varanasi ?
By road 800 kilometers approximately.
How much it takes to reach Varanasi by flight?
1 to 1.30 hours approximately.
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