PLACES TO VISIT
The Ghats
The soul of Varanasi lies on the riverfront steps leading to the Ganges.
Dashashwamedh Ghat
Considered the main ghat, Dashashwamedh is a vibrant hub of activity. It is famous for its spectacular evening Ganga Aarti, a meticulously choreographed ceremony of fire and worship dedicated to Lord Shiva and the River Ganges. It's an unmissable spiritual spectacle that draws thousands of pilgrims and tourists daily.
Manikarnika Ghat
Manikarnika is the primary cremation ghat in Varanasi, a place of profound spiritual significance. Hindus believe that cremation here grants moksha (liberation). While it can be a confronting sight, it offers a powerful glimpse into the Hindu traditions of life, death, and rebirth, where funeral pyres burn continuously day and night.
Assi Ghat
Located at the southern end of the city, where the river Assi meets the Ganges, Assi Ghat is a popular spot for both locals and travelers. It's known for its more tranquil atmosphere and is a hub for cultural events, morning yoga sessions, and classical music performances, making it an ideal place to relax and observe daily life.
Temples
Sacred shrines that form the spiritual heart of the city.
Kashi Vishwanath Temple
One of the twelve Jyotirlingas, this temple is among the most sacred and important Shiva temples in Hinduism. Also known as the Golden Temple for its two gold-plated pinnacles, it has been a central site of worship for centuries. The temple complex is a powerful spiritual epicenter, drawing devotees from all over the world.
Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple
This revered temple is dedicated to the god Hanuman, the remover of troubles ("Sankat Mochan"). Built in the early 1900s by Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya, it stands on the spot where the great saint Tulsidas is said to have had a vision of Hanuman. The temple is also renowned for its annual classical music and dance festival.