Varanasi, India—known as the City of Lights—is one of the oldest living cities in the world and one of the most revered by Hindus. Located on the banks of the Ganges River, the city is a major spiritual and cultural center for the country. Varanasi is a vibrant, bustling city full of life and energy that draws visitors from all over the world to experience its unique culture and history.
Varanasi is renowned for its ghats (riverfront steps) along the Ganges, which are used for worship, bathing, and cremation. The city also has a number of temples, palaces, and other attractions to explore such as the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, the Bharat Mata Mandir, and the Ramnagar Fort.
The streets of Varanasi are vibrant and full of life. Here, you can find a variety of markets selling food, clothes, and souvenirs, as well as a wide range of restaurants and cafes. The city also has a lively nightlife, with bars, clubs, and live music venues.
Varanasi is a great place to visit to experience the true culture and spirit of India. From its sacred rivers to its bustling streets, the city is full of surprises and memories that will stay with you for a lifetime.
| Rank | Booking Site | Price Compared to Average | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Cheapest | Booking.com | -4% | |
| 2. Cheap | Hotels.com | -2% | |
| 3. Average | Expedia | -1% | |
| 4. More Expensive | Agoda | 1% | |
| 5. Most Expensive | Trip.com | 3% |
1. Assi Ghat: Assi Ghat is located on the banks of the River Ganges and is one of the most popular ghats in Varanasi. Here, pilgrims and tourists alike can enjoy the beauty of the Ganges and take part in the daily rituals that take place at the ghats.
2. Dasaswamedh Ghat: Dasaswamedh Ghat is one of the oldest ghats in Varanasi, and is a popular spot for pilgrims and tourists alike. Here, one can witness the Ganga Aarti, a daily ritual involving chanting and offering of flowers and lamps to the holy river.
3. Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most sacred temples in Varanasi and houses the famous Shiva Linga. It is a popular pilgrimage site and attracts thousands of devotees from around the world.
4. Sarnath: Sarnath is an important Buddhist pilgrimage site located near Varanasi. It is believed to be the site of Buddha’s first sermon and is a popular tourist destination.
5. Ramnagar Fort: Ramnagar Fort is a fort situated on the eastern banks of the River Ganges in Varanasi. It is a popular tourist spot and houses many artifacts from the Mughal era.
1. Ganga Aarti: A nightly ritual taking place on the banks of the Ganges River in Varanasi, Ganga Aarti involves the lighting of many lamps and the chanting of mantras to honor the river goddess.
2. Kashi Vishwanath Temple: One of the most important Hindu temples in India, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is believed to be the site where Lord Shiva and Parvati were married.
3. Assi Ghat: This riverside ghat is one of the most popular places in Varanasi, and it is a great place to take a boat ride on the Ganges.
4. Ramnagar Fort: Located across the Ganges River, this fort was built in the 18th century and is now a museum that houses many artifacts from the city’s past.
5. Sarnath: Just outside of Varanasi, Sarnath is a popular pilgrimage site where Lord Buddha is said to have given his first sermon. Here, visitors will find the ruins of ancient temples and monasteries.
1. Chaat: Chaat is a popular snack made from a variety of ingredients including potatoes, onions, chickpeas, tomatoes, spices, and chutneys. It is often served with puri (fried bread) or served as a dip with samosas.
2. Litti Chokha: Litti Chokha is a traditional dish of baked whole wheat balls filled with a spiced mashed potato mixture. It is typically served with chokha (mashed eggplant, tomatoes, and onions) and a side of ghee (clarified butter).
3. Pani Puri: Pani Puri is a popular street food made by filling small puri (fried dough) with flavored water, potatoes, onions, and spices.
4. Kachori: Kachori is a popular snack made from all-purpose flour, spices, and oil. It is deep-fried and served with a variety of chutneys.
5. Malaiyo: Malaiyo is a sweet dish made from a thick, creamy milk sauce, flavored with cardamom, saffron, and sugar. It is often served with poori (fried bread) or as a dessert.