Banaras, also known as Varanasi and fondly referred to as Kashi, is regarded as one of the oldest cities in the world. A visit to Banaras immerses you in a tapestry of sounds, from temple bells to devotional aartis, the sounds of trumpets, and the sight of cows being honored at every turn. A little stroll further reveals the tranquil Ganges, where visitors flock to take a sacred dip. As famously quoted by Mark Twain, Kashi is a treasure trove of heritage, culture, and tradition, all of which contribute to its unparalleled holiness. Here are some of the most beautiful places to visit in Banaras.
Many Hindus believe that those who pass away in this holy city are blessed by the divine. It is widely accepted that the sacred waters of the Ganges have the power to cleanse one of sins and negative actions. However, Varanasi offers more than just a pilgrimage; it is also a sanctuary for peace and a center for learning and civilization.
It was in this divine city that Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon, and it is also closely linked to the Vedic religion. Varanasi serves as a commercial hub for exporting Muslin and cotton textiles, as well as perfumes, ittars, flowers, garlands, ivory crafts, and the famous Banarasi sarees. With a rich blend of tradition and modernity, the city has gracefully evolved while preserving its historic character. The breathtaking riverfront, with its ghats and steps leading to the Ganges, creates a captivating atmosphere for all visitors.
1. Kashi Vishwanath Temple
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, often called the Golden Temple, is dedicated to Lord Shiva. This unique place to visit in Banaras is located where the Varana and Asi rivers converge before meeting the Ganges. The area’s name, Kashi, derives from an ancient local tribe. Inside the temple, you will find a Jyotirlinga, a sacred symbol of Lord Shiva. Visitors come to experience the magnificent aarti ceremony and to immerse themselves in the uplifting devotional music and hymns.
- Category: Religious
- Timings:
- Mangala Aarti: 3:00 AM to 4:00 AM (Morning)
- Bhoga Aarti: 11:15 AM to 12:20 PM (Noon)
- Sandhya Aarti: 7:00 PM to 8:15 PM (Evening)
- Shringara Aarti: 9:00 PM to 10:15 PM (Night)
- Shayana Aarti: 10:30 PM to 11:00 PM (Night)
- Location: Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Lahori Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.
- Entry Fee: 251 INR
2. Har-ki-Paidi Ghat
As the sun sets, the stunning Har-ki-Paidi Ghat comes alive, with the sound of bells echoing in the serene ambiance. The Ganga Aarti, performed in Varanasi, Rishikesh, and Haridwar, is a sight to behold and offers a deeply spiritual experience. This ritual features a grand display of lights from large lamps, and small diyas adorned with flowers float along the Ganges as prayers are offered to Goddess Ganga. This place is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Banaras.
- Category: Religious
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round
- Timings: Aarti: 5:30 PM to 6:00 PM
- Location: Dashashwamedh Ghat, Banaras.
- Entry Fee: Free
3. Dashashwamedh Ghat
Dashashwamedh Ghat, one of the unique places to visit in Banaras, comes alive at night when the air is filled with chants and hymns. Devotees pay their respects with rituals dedicated to the river deities, creating an awe-inspiring spectacle. The atmosphere here is a blend of tranquility and activity, as tourists and locals alike congregate to pray and experience the Ganga Aarti. A serene boat ride along the river offers a unique perspective of this vibrant scene.
- Category: Religious
- Best Time to Visit: July to October
- Timings: Open from 8:00 AM to Midnight, daily.
- Location: Dashashwamedh Ghat Rd, Godowlia, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.
- Entry Fee: Free
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4. Banaras Hindu University
Established in 1919, the Banaras Hindu University is one of the oldest and largest universities in Asia, ranked among the top educational institutions in India and the world. This sprawling campus, covering 1300 acres, attracts students from across the globe who come to learn about the rich culture and traditions of Banaras. The university is located 22 km from Babatpur Airport and is one of the best places to visit in Banaras for couples.
- Category: Educational
- Best Time To Visit: October to March
- Timings: Open for tourists from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
- Location: University Rd, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221005.
- Entry Fee: Free
5. Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple
A short distance from Banaras Hindu University lies the beautiful Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple. This temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, attracts thousands of visitors daily seeking blessings. Renowned as the deity of protection, Lord Hanuman’s idol at this mountaintop temple offers a stunning view of the surroundings. The temple, showcasing typical North Indian architectural style, is one of the best places to visit in Banaras with friends.
- Category: Religious
- Best Time To Visit: October to March
- Timings: Open from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, with morning aarti at 4:00 AM and night aarti at 9:00 PM.
- Location: Sankat Mochan Rd, Padampuri Colony, Jawahar Nagar Colony, Bhelupur, Varanasi.
- Entry Fee: Free
6. Assi Ghat
Assi Ghat is one of the most famous places to visit in Banaras and is a popular spot to witness the Ganga Aarti. This lively ghat sees visitors from diverse backgrounds, including researchers, doctors, and engineers. Each morning, over 500 tourists gather to watch the sunrise. During festivals, Assi Ghat can accommodate over 25,000 attendees, with Diwali attracting around 60,000 visitors lighting diyas. Additionally, tourists can enjoy hot air balloon rides and boat trips here.
- Category: Religious
- Best Time To Visit: October to March
- Timings: Open 24 hours.
- Location: Nagwa Rd, Assi Ghat, Anandbagh, Dumraon Colony, Varanasi.
- Entry Fee: Free
7. Vishwanath Gali
If you’re looking to shop for the world-famous Banarasi sarees, then Vishwanath Gali is the place to be. Renowned primarily for its textile market, the area features garments crafted from muslin and cotton. The history of this bustling market dates back to 1780 when Ahilyabai ordered a reconstruction of the renowned Vishwanath temple, which had previously been destroyed by the last Mughal emperor, Aurangzeb. Today, this alley is a vibrant hub where pilgrims and tourists flock for affordable yet high-quality clothing.
- Category: Religious
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
- Timings: Open at all hours.
- Location: Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.
- Entry Fee: Free
8. Tulsi Manasa Temple
Constructed in 1964, the Tulsi Manasa Temple is another unique place to visit in Banaras, where devotees come to pray to Lord Rama. Named after the esteemed Hindi poet, Tulsi Das, the temple is built in the Shikhara architectural style, featuring inscriptions from the revered Ramcharitmanas on its walls. Various poems and stories adorn the temple’s pillars, and theatrical plays focusing on Lord Rama and his devoted follower, Hanuman, are held. For those wishing to enjoy a puppet show, visiting during the Saawan months (July and August) is highly recommended.
- Category: Religious
- Best Time to Visit: October
- Timings: Morning: 5:30 AM to 12:00 PM; Evening: 3:30 PM to 9:00 PM.
- Location: Sankat Mochan Rd Durga Kund Marg Near Jalan, Varanasi.
- Entry Fee: ₹3 per person.
9. Nepali Temple
As one of the oldest temples in Banaras, the Nepali Temple dates back to the 19th century and features stunning images and idols of Lord Shiva. Constructed under the patronage of the King of Nepal, this temple bears resemblance to the renowned Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu. The temple showcases intricate stonework, timber carvings, and terracotta features, attracting devotees from all over the globe with its architectural beauty.
- Category: Religious
- Best Time To Visit: September to November
- Timings: 4:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Location: Near Lalita Ghat, Lahori Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.
- Entry Fee: Free
10. Kedar Ghat
Kedar Ghat is a testament to ancient culture and heritage, and it offers a cleaner environment compared to other ghats for taking a holy dip. This ghat attracts pilgrims and visitors wishing to pray to Lord Shiva and purify their souls. Among its charms is the Kedareshwar temple, which adds to the serene, spiritual atmosphere surrounded by lush greenery.
- Category: Religious
- Best Time To Visit: May to June, September to October
- Timings: Accessible at all hours
- Location: Kedar Ghat, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.
- Entry Fee: Free
11. Gyan Vapi Well
The Gyan Vapi Well is a sacred site within the precincts of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, considered even more holy than the Ganges itself by devotees. Millions visit annually during Maha Kumbh to pay homage to this well. However, due to deposits from offerings, the well has become unclean and unsuitable for use. Legend has it that Emperor Aurangzeb attempted to destroy the temple, leading to its tumultuous history.
- Category: Religious
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round
- Timings: 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM
- Location: 31-24, Gyanvapi Main Road, Lahori Tola, Gyanvapi, Uttar Pradesh.
- Entry Fee: Free
12. Tibetan Temple, Varanasi
The Tibetan temple is a reflection of Tibetan culture and attracts devotees of Lord Buddha. It features a statue of Shakyamuni and showcases prayer wheels adorned with beautiful flowers. Visitors can also find Thangka paintings and experience a unique cultural atmosphere as the prayer wheels release messages of peace when spun clockwise.
- Category: Religious
- Timings: 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Location: 92GG+VH9, Sarnath, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221007
- Entry Fee: Free
13. Gyanvapi Mosque
Gyanvapi Mosque, situated near the Dashashwamedh Ghat, was built on the ruins of the ancient Vishweshwara temple, destroyed by Aurangzeb in 1669. The mosque is located in the heart of Banaras, by the Ganges, and is a significant religious site in its own right, attracting visitors who come to explore its storied past.
- Category: Religious
- Timings: Open to visitors at any time.
- Location: 31-24, Gyanvapi Main Road, Lahori Tola, Gyanvapi, Uttar Pradesh.
- Entry Fee: Free
14. Batuk Bhairav Mandir
This temple honors Bhairav, one of Lord Shiva’s many forms, revered for its spiritual significance. The temple features the Akhand Deep, a sacred flame believed to have been burning for years and is considered to possess healing powers.
- Category: Religious
- Best Time to Visit: Winter months
- Timings: 4:00 AM to 12:30 PM
- Location: Kamccha, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.
- Entry Fee: Free
15. Alamgir Mosque
Perched above the Panchganga Ghat, Alamgir Mosque was constructed by Aurangzeb in 1669 on the ruins of a temple. Although the minarets collapsed during a flood in 1948, the mosque remains a fascinating blend of Hindu and Islamic architecture, set at a scenic convergence of five streams.
- Category: Religious
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Location: Panchganga Ghat, Ghasi Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.
- Entry Fee: Free
Frequently Asked Questions about the Best Places to Visit in Banaras:
1. Are Varanasi and Banaras the same place?
Yes, Banaras and Varanasi refer to the same city, also called Kashi, situated in the southern part of Uttar Pradesh, India, along the left bank of the Ganges. It is regarded as one of the most sacred locations in India.
2. Why is this city considered sacred in India?
Banaras is revered as one of the foremost pilgrimage destinations in India, with many devotees seeking to take a sacred dip in the Ganges, believed to wash away sins. The Ganga Aarti is also a significant spiritual attraction.
3. What is the oldest name of this city?
Banaras, Varanasi, and Kashi are all names associated with this ancient city, with Kashi often cited as the oldest and most vibrant city in existence.
4. Who initiated the construction of Banaras ghats?
The construction of the Banaras (Varanasi) ghats occurred during the Maratha reign in the 18th century, with many kings involved, including Holkars, Bhonsles, Peshwas, and the Maharaja of Banaras.
5. Who reconstructed the Manikarnika temple?
According to historical records, the temple’s construction began in the 5th century, with stone steps added in 1303 and a major reconstruction occurring in 1730 under the rule of Bajirao Peshwa.
6. Which goddess is believed to have fallen in Varanasi?
Local legends suggest that the eyes or earrings of Sati fell in Varanasi, leading to the establishment of Vishalakshi, also known as Shakti Pitha. Some locals believe her entire body fell into this area, as represented by the idol here.
7. Who is the current Kashi Naresh?
The present Kashi Naresh, or ruler of Kashi, is represented by a 65-year-old named Prem Singh, the eighth generation of the Kashi ruling family.
8. Was Kashi once a princely state?
Yes, during British rule, Banaras was recognized as a full-fledged princely state governed by the Naresh dynasty.
9. Which ghat is the most popular in Banaras?
Dashashwamedh Ghat stands as the most frequented and famous ghat, located on the river’s outer banks, close to the Kashi Vishwanath temple.
10. Is the Kashi Vishwanath temple constructed with gold or stones?
The Kashi Vishwanath temple was constructed under Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore and adorned with gold plates donated by Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
11. What is the most famous food item in Banaras?
Banaras is famous for its delicious food, including kachori sabzi, Chena Dahi vada, choora matar, thandai, lassi, and dahi chutney wale Gol Gappa, to name a few.
12. Which are the famous ghats for taking a holy dip?
Some of the well-known ghats for sacred bathing in Banaras include:
- Rajendra Prasad Ghat
- Dashashwamedh Ghat
- Assi Ghat
- Lalita Ghat
- Darbhanga Ghat
- Kedar Ghat
- Chet Singh Ghat
- Scindia Ghat
13. What activities can I enjoy in Banaras?
Visitors can enjoy taking a holy dip in the Ganges, listening to Sufi and devotional music, visiting temples, and shopping for famous Banarasi sarees.
14. What precautions should visitors take in Banaras?
Visitors should refrain from taking photographs at cremation grounds, using inappropriate language, or engaging in public urination. It’s important to maintain decorum given the city’s religious significance.
15. Is Bhang available for everyone to drink?
Bhang, a traditional drink, is commonly available during festivals like Maha Shivratri. It is considered a holy offering to Lord Shiva and can be consumed as lassi or bhang ladoos.
16. What are the best months to visit Banaras?
The ideal time to visit Banaras is during the winter months, as the cool weather complements the city’s enchanting atmosphere full of prayers and blessings.
17. What languages are spoken in Banaras?
In Banaras, a mixture of Bhojpuri and Hindi is primarily spoken, while the ancient language associated with the city is Sanskrit.
18. What is the predominant religion in Banaras?
The majority of the residents in Banaras practice Hinduism, accounting for approximately 84.2% of the population, while Muslims represent around 14.88%.
19. How ancient is the city of Banaras?
Banaras is said to have been established around 500 years ago, but many scholars estimate its history dates back approximately 3000 years.
20. Is drinking alcohol banned in Varanasi?
No, drinking alcohol is not prohibited, but consumption is restricted near temples and sacred places.
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