Varanasi is located in northeastern India in the center of the Ganges Valley and is part of the state of Uttar Pradesh. It is a holy place for Hindus, Buddhists and Jains, a center of Brahminical learning, one of the oldest cities in the world, a city of pilgrims where people come to wash away their sins in the Ganges or cremate loved ones. Varanasi is a place where the physical and spiritual worlds are closely intertwined. The Ganges is considered a river of salvation, a symbol of hope for ancestors, living and future generations. Here, rituals of life and death are performed right in front of passers-by.
Varanasi is a city with a very strong energy, but it is famous not only for its funeral pyres: there are many ancient temples here. They also make the finest silk here and sew dresses, saris and other handicrafts from it.
How to get to Varanasi
- By bus: There are two regular buses per day from Khajuraho and one from Bodh Gaya. The Varanasi bus station is located a few hundred meters from the main railway station Varanasi Cantonment.
- By plane: There are no direct flights from Moscow to Varanasi; you will need to make two transfers, the second usually to Delhi. From there the plane flies to Varanasi Babatpur Airport.
- By train: If you want to visit not only Varanasi, but also other cities in India, choose to travel by rail. High-speed trains from Delhi and Kolkata arrive at Mughal Serai station, 12 km southeast of Varanasi.
At the end of December and in January there is often heavy fog, which can cause flights and trains to be cancelled. This happens especially often on the Delhi-Varanasi route.
Search for air tickets to Delhi (closest airport to Varanasi)
Transport
You can get around the city by bus (the fare will be about 5-10 INR). The bus stop is located near the main railway station. Another popular mode of transport is rickshaws and pedicabs. Prices on the page are as of March 2019.
Weather in Varanasi
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The climate in these places is humid subtropical, summers are long and hot, lasting from April to October. Thanks to the cold air blowing from the Himalayas, temperatures from December to February are below −5 °C. Fogs are common in winter.
Varanasi Hotels
There is no dearth of tourist accommodation in Varanasi. Most tourists prefer budget guesthouses closer to city attractions, which is why there are the most budget hotels here. There are also expensive hotels in the city, and they are concentrated mainly behind the railway station.
A large selection of tourist accommodation in the Godaulia area, in the very center of the Ganges embankment, closer to the ghats and other interesting places of Varanasi. There is a lot of economy class housing here, but it is better not to count on comfort. Prices for accommodation depend on the view from the window, the presence of a terrace - pilgrims often meditate there and the availability of air conditioning (it’s better not to skimp on this). Prices start from 200 INR per person.
A lot of inexpensive housing is concentrated along the Ganges River and the Old City. The practice of settling tourists in private houses is popular here. Rent a room in a private house or apartment will cost at least 200-300 INR per person, for 1000-1500 INR per day you can count on conditions close to European ones.
Immediately behind the station there is a very calm area where the bulk of expensive hotels are concentrated - there you can stay in a completely European-looking “three ruble” for 40-60 USD or in a decent 4* hotel for 80-110 USD per day for a double room.
Shopping in Varanasi
The city of Varanasi is famous for its finest silk. It is sold everywhere here: in markets, in small silk shops in the Old Town and in souvenir shops. There are a lot of scammers in the silk business, so don’t trust barkers and rickshaw drivers who “know exactly the best store.” This applies not only to private stores, but also to state ones - there are no guarantees. The only place where you definitely won’t run into a fake is the store at the Mehrotra Silk Factory. Silk and silk products have been traded here for more than 50 years, and there is no doubt about the quality. There is a large selection there, and the prices are fixed, so there is no need to bargain. Prices for silk scarves and shawls start from 400 INR, for dresses and sarees from 2500 INR, and a silk bedspread can be purchased for 9000 INR. The store is located in a small side street on the Ganges River embankment, within walking distance from the railway station.
In the markets and shops of Varanasi you can buy musical instruments - sitars (string instrument) and tablas (Indian drums). The cheapest are made from mango wood, but the best are those made from teak and vijaisar.
The city has many street markets, literally selling everything from fresh watermelons and mangoes to ritual flowers and water containers from the sacred Ganges River. There are a lot of silk products and jewelry in the markets of the Old City, but authenticity is always a big question - there are many fakes. You can also buy copper jewelry and dishes, handmade carpets and local oil-based perfumes here. Fragrances, of course, are not for everyone, but if you are lucky enough to find your own, it is good luck, since they are very persistent.
Cuisine and restaurants of Varanasi
Varanasi is full of cafes and restaurants at every turn. Most of them are unsanitary, especially in the Old Town, but they are quite safe and you can eat there very cheaply - for 60-70 INR you can get a full meal and tea.
Almost every hotel and guesthouse has its own restaurant or at least a small cafe. The more expensive the hotel, the greater the choice and the higher the chances of getting not only Indian, but also Italian, Nepalese and Japanese dishes. The most expensive restaurants, where almost any food is available, are located in five-star hotels; You don’t have to live there, you can just come for dinner or lunch.
The most popular dishes in local eateries: thali (rice and lentil stew with spices and vegetable sauces), fried rice, paneer in different variations, noodles, chicken in sauce, Indian-style pizza and pasta, dosa (large pancake made from rice flour) and everything is deep fried.
From verified places:
- local cuisine - in the Lotus Lounge restaurant (Tibetan curry, Tibetan “momo” - somewhat similar to dumplings and Goan delicacies);
- Indian - at El Parador: it’s worth trying homemade pasta, chicken souvlaki (kebabs on wooden skewers) and pancakes;
- dishes of northern India and Afghanistan - at Varuna Restaurant: thali and tandoori kebab;
- Israeli cuisine - at the Haifa restaurant;
- Japanese - at Megu Cafe: real sushi, rolls, miso soup and chicken in ginger.
Entertainment and attractions of Varanasi
Varanasi is called the City of the Dead - life and death are intertwined here surprisingly tightly. To die here is considered a great honor and good luck among Hindus - this means that the endless cycle of rebirth will finally end and the soul will end up in the best of worlds. That is why all old and sick Hindus, when they feel imminent death, strive to get to Varanasi.
If a person is unlucky enough to leave the world in the City of the Dead, relatives will bring his body here for ritual cremation. These funeral pyres became almost the main local attraction. The crematoria are located on ghats - steps that lead from the embankment down to the river. There are many of them in Varanasi, but the most important is Manikarnika Nhat - there you can often even find a line of dead people. The body, wrapped in a sheet, is burned at the stake, and the ashes are then scattered over the Ganges. For Hindus themselves, there is nothing sad or dramatic about this - from their point of view, the soul is still either reborn or ends up in nirvana.
Photographs of funeral rites are not permitted. There is no prohibiting law, but the locals will not allow you to do this for free; for them, selling pseudo-permits is a kind of business. Prices vary - from 300 INR per frame to 13,000-15,000 INR per day of photography. Shooting with a professional camera will cost 5-10 times more.
The Ganges embankment is the most party place in Varanasi. Here they pray, meditate and just sit in the water and communicate. The audience is very diverse: pilgrims, Rastafarians, freaks, beggars, artists and hashish dealers.
Varanasi
Temples of Baranasi
There are at least two thousand temples in Varanasi, their exact number is unknown. The most impressive:
- Vishwanath (aka Golden Temple) - built in 1785 and 800 kg of pure gold was spent on its gilding alone. Non-Hindus cannot get there, so tourists go up to the third floor of the store in the neighboring building - from there the golden roof is best seen.
- Kedareshvar - stands on the banks of the Ganges and stands out among all other buildings with its striped red and white walls. Water and flowers are brought to the local lingam (a symbol of divine power in Hinduism), as it is believed that if it is not watered, drought will hit the city.
- Annapurna Bhavani is one of the most important temples in Varanasi where Goddess Annapurna and feminine energy are worshiped. The temple houses a statue of Annapurna made from a single piece of gold.
- Durga is the most popular temple among tourists. It has red walls, and is popularly called “monkey”, as there are always a lot of monkeys around it. The Mother Goddess is worshiped here, the temple itself is located in a very beautiful place, and it even has its own swimming pool.
Museums and galleries
In Sarnath (a suburb of Varanasi, 10 km from the city) there is an interesting archaeological museum where you can see antiquities from the 3rd century. BC e. up to 12th century n. e. Fragments of ancient monasteries that were built by Buddha's followers, fragments of columns and other archaeological artifacts found in these places are exhibited there.
14 km from Varanasi on the other bank of the Ganges is the Ram Nagar fort, built of red sandstone in the 18th century. The fort has a museum and a temple dedicated to the ancient Indian poet Vyasa, who wrote the Mahabharata. 25 km from Varanasi is the Chunar fort - the ruins of ancient settlements.
The Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, which is located on the premises of the local university, houses a large collection of miniatures, sculptures, manuscripts of Indian art, and bronzes. The exhibition features works by foreign artists inspired by the beauty of Varanasi, including Nicholas Roerich.
Nightlife and other entertainment
There are bars and other drinking establishments in Varanasi, but they are located far from the Ganges. Drinking alcohol on the banks of the sacred river is not approved, but you are unlikely to receive a fine for this - only public censure. The best bars and discos are located in hotels away from the ghats - and here the more expensive the hotel, the better. For example, the evenings are bustling with classical music at the Brown Bread Bakery, the Puja Hotel and the Varuna Restaurant at the Gateway Hotel Ganges, while the Ashram International Music Center hosts small musical performances on Wednesdays and Saturdays (entrance 100 INR).
Events
Diwali is celebrated annually in Varanasi - the festival of lights, symbolizing the victory of good over evil, when candles and lanterns are lit throughout the city. The city also hosts the Shivaratri festival in honor of the god Shiva, when believers read stories about Shiva and sing hymns in his honor, after which a fair opens on the river bank.
TOURISTS' ANSWERS:
Varanasi is a city region in northeastern India. This city is as important to Hindus as the Vatican is to Catholics. The place is considered a holy city for Buddhists and Jains. The population of Varanasi is almost one and a half million people. The city is interesting, beautiful, noisy. And here's what you can see here.
University in Varanasi (Banaras Hindu University)
The Hindu University was opened in 1916. Today this university is considered one of the best universities in India, and since the university building is beautiful, it is one of the main attractions of Varanasi. Approximately 15,000 students study at that educational institution, and the university is also a platform for students and young scientists from all over the world. The university building is huge - for example, the main campus is located on an area of 5.5 sq. km. Inside the university building there is a museum that will be of interest to tourists. The museum offers an exhibition of 150,000 ancient manuscripts written in Sanskrit, as well as magnificent collections of sculptures and miniatures dating from the 1st to the 15th centuries.
Durga Temple (Shri DurgaTemple) 
This is one of the most popular temples in the city. The cathedral was built in honor of the goddess Durga, the wife of Shiva (according to some opinions). It is believed that the goddess has been guarding the temple for many centuries and protecting the entire city from harm. Durga is also considered the embodiment of feminine power. A statue of a goddess in a red robe riding on a tiger can also be seen in the temple. The temple was built in the 13th century by the Bengal Maharani in the Nagar style (Indian style of temple architecture). The temple, with red walls and a multi-level spire, is located in a beautiful location, and is adjacent to the rectangular Durga Kund pool. The building is impressive, I must say! By the way, the temple is also known as the “Monkey Temple”, as monkeys constantly climb and run around the temple, begging for food from tourists. Thousands of pilgrims come to this temple during Navratri and beyond.
Address: 27, Durgakund Rd, Jawahar Nagar Colony, Birdopur
Kashi Vishwanath Temple 
The temple dedicated to Shiva is located on one of the narrow city streets, in a place called Vishwanath Gali. The temple is surrounded on all sides by houses, and at first you can even walk past it without noticing it. Another point: it’s a bit difficult for foreigners to get into the temple, but it’s worth a try. The beautiful temple with a golden roof is impressive. If you don't get to the temple, at least go up to the third floor of the neighboring store. The shrine of the temple - the Adi Visheashvara lingam is located in a silver recess in the floor 60 centimeters in depth and 90 centimeters in circumference, and it is always decorated with flowers, and around it is a silver cobra. The temple consists of several small temples near the river - temples of Dhandapani, Avimukteshvara, Vinayaka, Virupaksha and other deities.
Avrangzeb Mosque
This is the largest mosque in Varanasi. She can be found in the eastern part of the city. This mosque was built in 1669 in honor of the triumph of Islam over Brahmanism. A century later, the building was reconstructed. The building looks a little gloomy. The mosque has a square shape and three domes supported by columns. Interestingly, the mosque has excellent acoustics. You can also visit the observation deck in the mosque, which offers a magnificent view of the city and surrounding area.
Art gallery in Varanasi (Banaras art gallery) 
The gallery was opened in 1988 and consists of four halls that are interconnected. In the gallery you can see about 50,000 exhibits, namely paintings by young local artists.
Address: Shiv Shakti Complex, Lanka, Sigra
Bharat Mata Mandir 
The temple was built in 1936. The temple became famous especially after the inauguration ceremony of Mahatma Gandhi, one of the leaders of the movement for Indian independence from Great Britain, took place here. This is the only temple dedicated to Mother India, who is depicted as a woman wearing a yellow or orange sari with the flag of the country. This marble statue can be seen inside the temple. Also impressive is the huge relief map, which covers the entire Indian subcontinent and the Tibetan plateau. This plateau is very interesting to study - all the mountains and rivers are clearly visible.
Ancient city of Vaishali 
The ancient city of Vaishali is one of the sacred places that is revered by Buddhists. Here you can see an 18-meter column topped with a life-size lion statue. Also impressive is the ancient temple of the 4th century, created from black stone, which is dedicated to the god Shiva, as well as a temple with many deities, an artificial pond for religious ablutions and a Buddhist monastery. It is believed that Buddha stopped in this city three times to deliver his final sermon. In the vicinity of the ancient city, two burials of the remains of Buddha were found - Buddha stupas.
Sarnath 
The suburb of Sarnath is a 15-minute drive from the city center. Buddhists consider this place sacred, since Buddha delivered his first sermon on the Four Noble Truths here. Previously, this place was called Mrigadava (Deer Park). And all because there is a legend according to which deer also came to listen to Buddha’s speeches. That’s why today you can see figures of deer on the roofs of houses. At the place where the first sermon was delivered, you can see stupas - “Lion Capital” (coat of arms of India), stupas of Dharmarajika, Kanishka and Guptas, Dhamekh. Also in this suburb there is an archaeological museum with exhibitions of sculptures and relics that were found in the city and its surroundings. The main pride of the museum is the statue of a meditating Buddha, which dates back to the 6th century AD.
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Varanasi is a place where a huge number of Buddhists come to perform sacred rituals, mediations and self-knowledge. Someone comes here to meet death - roughly speaking, on their “last journey.” The most important reason why a large number of tourists flock to Varanasi is to see the religious center of India, to touch something magical, incomprehensible, something that most often cannot be explained to an ordinary person. After all, a person is designed in such a way that everything that seems absurd or strange to him attracts his interest even more.
There are a lot of interesting things in Varanasi that can surprise and sometimes shock the average tourist, but the longer you stay in this place, the faster you get used to what is happening around you. I will tell you about the most interesting places in more detail below. But first, I will briefly describe what Varanasi is like. The city is located on the banks of the sacred Ganges River, where, according to legend, God Shiva ferried the souls of the deceased on their final journey. Most Hindus believe that after death the soul is reborn and experiences earthly life again. And in order to find eternal peace, you need to go through cremation, and then immerse yourself in the waters of the sacred Ganges River. This is why most Hindus come here, those who for some reason are doomed to die. They all want to be alone with themselves, and then find eternal peace. There are special houses for such people in Varanasi. This is actually why Varanasi is called the “city of the dead”. Bonfires with the ashes of the deceased do not stop burning here; all this happens in the crematorium located directly on the Ganges River. Varanasi can be compared to Mecca; every believer is obliged to visit this sacred place, and at the end of his life, end his journey here.
What is worth seeing in Varanasi.
1. Ghats- the main important place of the city is the embankment, the Ghats are stone steps that go into the water of the Ganges River. Everything happens there: bathing in the river, prayers, meditation, burning of the dead. Each Ghat has its own name and history, as well as affiliation. For example, on the Ghat, where people meditate, you cannot burn the dead and vice versa. However, for the most part, Hindus use these sacred steps for ritual baths in the river. Usually, curious tourists love to capture these moments with their cameras, but they do not swim in the Ganges themselves. The river itself is considered one of the dirtiest on Earth; doctors claim that it contains all intestinal diseases. But the Indians themselves, in addition to bathing, brush their teeth in it, and some even use it internally. At the same time, they manage not to get sick after this. This fact can be explained by the strong immunity of local residents, accustomed to such flora, as well as the great power of faith that works miracles.
Ghats - locals bathe in the sacred waters of the Ganges River.
2. Kashi Vishwanath Temple or Golden Temple.
This Temple is considered the most sacred in India. However, it itself is small and it is not always possible to find it the first time, so it is better to ask local residents to guide you to it. But unfortunately, you are unlikely to be allowed inside the temple, since entry there is only possible for residents of India. But you can admire the beauty of the domes of this building, made of gold weighing 800 kg. Inside Kashi Vishwanath there is a shrine - the Adi Visheashvara lingam, dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple is a center of pilgrimage in India.
Adi Visheasvara Linga
3. Kedareshwar- this temple, like the previous one, is dedicated to God Shiva. It is located directly on the banks of the Ganga River, so finding Kedareshwar will not be difficult, but it is worth admiring it from the water, sailing on a special boat for tourists. A distinctive feature is that it has not been modified in any way since its construction. And what you will see is unique. Unlike the Golden Temple, tourists are allowed here, but you must wear clothes that cover your elbows and knees. Photography is not allowed inside.
Kedareshwar.
4. Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum- art lovers should definitely visit this place; many beautiful objects from Indian culture are exhibited here. Ancient manuscripts, bronze statues, all kinds of jewelry, both made of precious metals and not, ceramics, Buddhist and Hindu sculptures and more. The museum is located on the campus of Banaras Hindu, the largest educational institution in India.
Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum
5. Durga Temple- this temple was built in honor of the goddess Durga, and it is also called the Monkey Temple; a large number of these animals live here. While in the temple you should be very careful, as these seemingly sweet creatures can skillfully steal something from you. And in India it is prohibited to offend monkeys, so you should be very careful and watch your things. The temple itself is built of red stone, and there is a beautiful pond on its territory. Durga is very revered in Varanasi, she is considered the protector of the city, protecting it from all kinds of troubles.
Durga Temple.
To summarize, I want to say that there are a lot of interesting places in Varanasi and it would take too long to list them all here, I just want to say that this holy city deserves you to visit it. In my opinion, the real India is hidden here, not in Goa, where tourists are used to going. It is very interesting to see Indian culture, how much the locals believe and revere their God. It seemed to me that all these people were constantly in some kind of neutral state between life and death. They are not afraid to die, but on the contrary, they consider death to be something sacred and important, and perhaps even, although it sounds ridiculous, the meaning of life for them is to die with dignity in the waters of the great river Ganga.
It is safe to say that Varanasi is the religious capital of India. When mentioning this amazing city, it is often called the “holy city of the dead”, then you will understand why. Today it is one of the most ancient inhabited cities not only in India, but throughout our planet. Scientists tend to believe that Varansi is more than 3,000 years old, but most Indians believe that it is more than 5,000 years old and was founded by the god Shiva himself. In any case, almost all of its contemporaries, such as Babylon or Luxor, have long since sunk into history, but Varanasi doesn’t care. This is a city of legend, a city of mystery.
In this article we will talk about the most famous and revered attractions of Varanasi, where to go and what to see in this beautiful city. Although, it is worth recognizing that this is a rare case when the city itself is one large and very interesting attraction, especially that part of it that is adjacent to the embankment. Narrow streets, architecture as old as India itself, chaotic buildings of old quarters, temples that are found at every step, mysterious rituals and an endless number of legends and prophecies with which the history of the city is closely connected - all this can surprise even the most experienced traveler. What tourists who arrive here for the first time experience is usually called “culture shock.”
Before we start talking about the sights, a little about the geography of the city. The most ancient quarters of the city are closest to the river. The fact is that Varanasi is located on the western bank of the sacred Ganges River, the eastern bank remains deserted because it is here, according to legend, that Shiva transports the souls of the dead. Today, like thousands of years ago, hundreds of funeral pyres are lit on the coastline every day to cremate the dead. Most people in India are sure that this type of cremation is the best, because this is the only way the soul can leave the endless cycle of rebirths and find peace. Hence the natural nickname that Varanasi received - “the city of the dead”. This is the best place to think about the eternal, put your thoughts in order and move on in harmony with the world around you. This city has absorbed all the diversity of Indian culture and carried through the millennia the unique atmosphere of Indian fairy tales.
Ghats
Ghats serve, first of all, for ritual bathing in the waters of a river sacred to the people of India. Every day tens of thousands of people wash their faces and heads here, thereby washing away all their sins and receiving blessings. Should visiting tourists perform this ritual? The question is complex. Residents of India believe in the unshakable purity of these waters, research suggests the opposite, adjusted for the fact that the water of the Ganges River actually contains an increased amount of silver, which neutralizes many diseases. Let everyone decide for themselves; we would recommend not to take risks. In any case, you definitely shouldn’t drink this water (as all the locals do). Some ghats are used for cremation of the dead. A large fire is laid out on special pedestals, where a stretcher with the deceased is placed and set on fire. Everything that remains at the site of the fire goes straight to the Ganges.
Kashi Vishwanath Temple (Golden Temple)
Kedareshwar
Sarnath
Unfortunately, most of the ancient buildings of Sarnath were destroyed and today they are ruins brought to the surface as a result of excavations. Several majestic stupas have survived: Dhamek and Dharmarajika. It was Dharmarajika that was built on the site of that sermon. It is interesting to visit the local archaeological museum, where objects found as a result of excavations are collected. Many tourists and pilgrims from all over the world come to see the sights of the village of Sarnath.
Ramnagar Fort
Today, Ramnagar Fort is not just a majestic and beautiful building, but also an interesting museum, which houses a solid collection of household items of the Maharajas: portraits, jewelry, suits, dresses, hookahs and much more. Particularly worth noting is the rich collection of the weapons room, which includes jewel-encrusted sabers and daggers. A classic attraction that is definitely worth a visit.
Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum
Durga Temple (The Durga Mandir)
The temple of the goddess Durga is a very interesting attraction even without monkeys. It is built from bright red stone and is a fine example of the Indian craftsmanship with this material. The walls of the building are decorated with elaborate carvings, the columns and towers also boast filigree work. There is an artificial rod on the temple grounds. Goddess Durga is highly respected in Varanasi, as she is considered the protector of the city, protecting it from harm. The Durga Temple is located a few kilometers from the BHU (Banaras Hindu University) university, which we have already talked about. This is very convenient; you can visit the temple right after the museum or vice versa.
There are a lot of attractions in Varanasi and it is not possible to describe everything in one article. How can I describe this city? You need to see it with your own eyes and feel it with your heart. On the way, you can easily stop by Varanasi, because it is located between Delhi and Calcutta.
Kashi Vishwanath Temple or Kashi Vishwanath Mandir is one of the most famous Hindu temples dedicated to Shiva and located in the holy city of Varanasi, India. This temple is located in a maze of small narrow streets, in a place called Vishwanath Gali, and you can’t even see it - it is surrounded by houses on all sides. In addition, it is difficult for a foreigner to get there.
To even look at its golden roof, tourists climb to the third floor of the store in the neighboring building. The shrine of the temple - the Adi Visheashvara lingam, is located in a silver-framed recess in the floor; it is always decorated with flowers, and a silver cobra curls around it, the hood of which protects it from above.
The temple complex itself consists of a series of smaller temples located near the river in a small passage known as Visvanatha Galli. The main object of veneration, the jyotirlinga, is placed on a silver altar and is 60 centimeters in height and 90 centimeters in circumference. The complex has small temples for Dhandapani, Avimukteshvara, Vinayaka, Virupaksha and other deities.
Durga Temple
The Durga temple is also known as the "monkey temple" due to the large number of monkeys living around it. The temple is one of the most important sacred temples of Varanasi dedicated to Goddess Durga. It is believed that the goddess has been guarding this place for many centuries and protecting the city of Varanasi from enemies.
The temple was built in the 18th century by a Bengali Maharani in the Nagar style (Indian style of temple architecture) on a rectangular tank called Durga Kunda. The building is painted red and has a multi-level spire.
According to legends, the real statue of Goddess Durga was not made by a man, but it appeared on its own. In Hinduism, Goddess Durga is considered the embodiment of Shakti or feminine power. The statue is depicted in a red robe riding on a tiger.
Thousands of pilgrims visit the temple during Navratri or other convenient times.
What attractions of Varanasi did you like? Next to the photo there are icons, by clicking on which you can rate a particular place.
Bharat Mata Temple
The Bharat Mata Temple was built in 1936 according to the design of Shiv Prashad Gupta.
This temple hosted the inauguration ceremony of Mahatma Gandhi, one of the most prominent leaders of the movement for Indian independence from Great Britain. Bharat Mata Temple is the only temple dedicated to Mother India. Traditionally, she is depicted as a woman wearing a yellow or orange sari holding a flag. The statue, which is located in the temple, is made of marble.
For tourists, in addition to the history of Indian culture itself, the temple will also be interesting because it contains a huge relief map covering the entire Indian subcontinent and the Tibetan plateau. The map is made in such a technique that you can accurately distinguish the mountains and rivers you are interested in.
Durga Temple is one of the most popular temples in Varanasi.
The temple was built in honor of the goddess Durga, who, according to one opinion, acts as the wife of Shiva. The Durga Temple in Varanasi worships the Mother Goddess in her wrathful warrior form.
The temple is located in a picturesque location and is adjacent to a swimming pool called Durga Kund. The red walls of the temple create a special impression. An interesting fact is that people call the temple “Monkey Temple”, because a large number of monkeys often gather around it, which greatly attracts tourists who do not miss the opportunity to take wonderful photographs.
Ancient city of Vaishali
The ancient city of Vaishali, in Varanasi, belongs to one of the sacred places highly revered by Buddhists, because it was here that Buddha himself stayed three times. Here he delivered his last sermon, in which he spoke about his upcoming departure. At this place, at the behest of King Ashoka, an 18-meter column was built, topped with a life-size lion statue.
Vaishali's attractions include an ancient 4th-century black stone temple dedicated to the god Shiva, another ancient temple with many deities, an artificial pond for ritual ablutions before coronations, and a Buddhist monastery where the Buddha himself stayed during his visits to Vaishali.
In the vicinity of Vaishali, two burials of the remains of Buddha, the so-called Buddha stupas, were found. Some of the prophet's ashes are here and now.
Art gallery in Varanasi
The art gallery in Varanasi has been open since 1988.
The gallery consists of four interconnected halls, which display extensive collections. The gallery has more than fifty thousand exhibits.
Fans of contemporary art will also be interested in visiting this gallery - exhibitions of young artists are regularly held here.
The art gallery in Varanasi is recognized as one of the best and allows you to deepen your knowledge of fine arts.
Avrangzeb Mosque
Avrangzeb Mosque is the largest mosque in Varanasi. It is located in the eastern part of the city.
The building was built in 1669 in honor of the triumph of Islam over Brahmanism, and in 1780 it was reconstructed. The building is square in shape with three domes, each supported by columns.
The building is attractive to tourists because it is a wonderful observation deck - from its top there is a beautiful view of Varanasi and the surrounding area.
Suburb Sarnath
Sarnath is considered a sacred place for Buddhists, because it was here that Buddha Shakyamuni delivered his first sermon on the four noble truths, which form the basis of Buddhist teachings.
The suburb was formerly known as Mrigadava (Deer Park). Legend has it that even deer came to listen to the Buddha's speeches, as evidenced by the modern architecture of the city: on the roofs of many houses there are figures of deer depicted on the sides of the wheel of Dharma.
At the site of the first sermon, stupas remained: “Lion Capital” - the coat of arms of India, stupas of Dharmarajika, Kanishka and Guptas, Dhamekh.
Sanratha is home to an archaeological museum highlighting ancient Buddhist sculptures and relics that have been excavated by archaeologists in and around the city. A statue of a meditating Buddha dating back to the 6th century AD is considered a unique monument.
University in Varanasi
The Hindu University in Varanasi opened in 1916 and is considered one of the best institutions of higher education in India, as well as one of the city's popular attractions.
The university offers various educational programs: in Indian philosophy, art and culture, music, Sanskrit and many others. Here everyone will find something to suit their interests. About fifteen thousand students study at the university. Currently, this is a modern platform for students and young scientists from all over the world. The Hindu University also has a huge area - the main campus alone occupies five and a half square kilometers.
However, the university is interesting not only for its high level of education. Tourists who have chosen Varanasi will be interested in visiting the university museum. Its collection contains more than one hundred and fifty thousand ancient manuscripts written in Sanskrit. The museum also has an extensive collection of sculpture and miniatures, which spans the era from the 1st to the 15th centuries.
The most popular attractions in Varanasi with descriptions and photographs for every taste. Choose the best places to visit famous places in Varanasi from our website.
Individual and group
It was once a major city, on par with Babylon, Luxor and Nineveh. This is a holy place for Buddhists and other religious representatives of a wide variety of branches and spiritual practices.
If you look into Indian mythology, you can read about the properties of this place. And the whole point is that Varanasi relieves a person’s soul from the burdens of life, that is, those who are lucky enough to die here are freed from the endless cycle of death and rebirth.
They bury the dead by burning their bodies on the banks of the Ganga River, because it washes away the sins of mere mortals, and perhaps therefore has the opposite flow - the river flows to the north. There are many ashrams and religious denominations in Varanasi; historians and scientists often come here.
Once upon a time, the city had a different name - Anandavana - translated as “blessed forest”, and instead of a dusty and noisy modern city, there was one large forest, the thicket of which was built up with ashrams, and clergy, scientists and philosophers came here from all over the country. According to historians, the Upanishads and the Advaita philosophy itself arose here.
Later the city became known as the scientific center of India.
Sights of Varanasi
Tourists come here to see naghats- rows of steps descending to the sacred river. Pilgrims descend along them to bathe in the Ganges. At some ghats, dead bodies are ritually burned and the ashes are scattered over the sacred waters of the Ganges.
Total operating in the city 84 ghats. The most important for pilgrims are Manikarnika, Panchaganga, Dasashwamedh, Assi, and Kedar.
Every day tens of thousands of people bathe in the Ganges River, sincerely believing that it will bring them happiness.
Every evening a ritual sacrifice takes place on the embankment.
On the territory of Varanasi you can see temples built in the 18th century. Unfortunately, it will not be possible to see more ancient buildings - many were devastated and destroyed.
Maintaining temples and cleaning the area around temples is what most of the residents do.
Known all over the world silk Varanasi, which became the main industry here due to the fact that the priests at one time needed special clothing.
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple or, is located in the depths of the city, disguised by a labyrinth of narrow streets and hidden from prying eyes. Only the golden roof, which took more than 820 kg gold turns out to be a real work of art. Tourists can admire it from the third floor of a nearby store.
If you are in Varanasi, be sure to check out the building, which is located on the Ganga embankment and stands out among other buildings with its bright combination of red and white facade.
Another important temple Annapurna Bhavani, this is the temple of the Mother Goddess, one of the most important in India.
It is a bright red building. Its characteristic feature is the many monkeys living near it. The Warrior Goddess is honored here.
Shanichar Temple visit to rid their aura of the evil eye and evil, and in the temple Shukreshwar women pray for the birth of a son.
In the 17th century, Varanasi was destroyed by the Mughals. And where Hindu temples were destroyed, approximately 300 mosques were later built. Some of the most famous - Aurangzeb mosque, located near the Ganges, and Gayanvapi Masjid.
Also very beautiful Hindu University. To date, 15,000 students are studying there. The university has a museum whose exhibits date back to the 15th century.
How to get to Varanasi from Delhi
By plane
Not far from Varanasi is Lal Bahadur Shastri, which receives flights not only from Indian cities, but also international flights from Southeast Asia.
Airfare in India is quite cheap, so flying is a great option for traveling to Varanasi.
For example, you can get from Delhi for 80-90 US dollars, and the flight time is 1.5 hours. In the case of Mumbai, the flight time is about two and a half hours, and the cost of tickets is $120-130. However, there are no special problems with booking tickets, since there are a lot of flights.
Major airlines flying to Varanasi: Air India, Spicejet And Indigo air.
By train
The Varanasi railway also connects with Kolkata and Bhubaneswar, as well as Delhi. Tickets will be much cheaper than plane tickets. Buying tickets at the station on the same day can be problematic, so it is better to purchase them in advance.
Where to stay
The best place to stay, oddly enough, is in the city center; there are many budget hostels and mini-hotels there. This is due to the fact that the Gadolia area, where many hotels are located, is adjacent to the Ganga embankment, which is very close to the ghats and other city attractions.
Not everyone wants to watch cremation around the clock, so room prices depend mainly on the view from the room, the presence of air conditioning, and a terrace overlooking the river (most often pilgrims take this room). The average room in this area costs between 100 and 300 rupees per night).
List of some hotels
- Yogi Lodge. Shared showers, cheap prices, fans instead of air conditioners.
- Alka Hotel. Large rooms, separate showers. Many rooms overlooking the embankment. Prices from 350 rupees. There are rooms with air conditioning.
- Ganga Fuji Home. Located in a building of historical value. There is access to the roof, from where a beautiful view of the Ganges opens. Paid Wi-Fi at the hotel is available until 22:00. If comfort is more important to you, it is best to stay away from the ghats, in the central areas of Contonment and Lahurabir near the railway station.
- Temples Town. Clean rooms, separate showers. A room without air conditioning will cost only 150 rupees.
- India. It is considered one of the most comfortable hotels. Separate shower, Wi-Fi available. The cost of a room without air conditioning is from 300 rupees, with air conditioning - from 500 rupees.
- Hotel de Paris. Rooms start from 600 rupees, but it is quiet here, a beautiful pre-house area with an exotic garden.
You can also stay near the station; there are many hotels here, prices starting from 20 rupees. Highly recommended Tropic bungalow Dak And Relax.
