One of the most fascinating and happening ancients in India, Varanasi is in some way intriguing. This divine city of Lord Shiva is believed to be the oldest inhabited cities in the world where people come to wash away their sins and attain liberation.

Observing life and death rituals performed at the same time and at the same spot, walking along the river, and exploring the narrow and confusing lanes of the city are a few of the major highlights of this city. Nearly everything you taste, smell, feel, hear, or see is surprising in its own term, and traveling to Varanasi can be an intense experience even if you are an experienced traveler.

Spending a holiday in this spiritual city is not always plain sailing, so use the below stated Varanasi travel tips to get the best out of your trip to Varanasi.

Explore The Other Nearby Cities First

Varanasi must be a part of your bucket list of destinations as it is considered to be the place where you can witness all the chaos and love of India in one place. This might be a very bold yet probably true statement that in every two seconds, you see something very new and exciting. It is believed that this gorgeous and exciting yet a bit scary and filthy city full of contradictions could be quite intense to visit as the first destination of your holiday.

You are advised to ease into it by stopping somewhere else first where Delhi and Rajasthan could be a perfect place to start.

Selecting the best mode of transport

One of the most important things to consider while planning a trip is to select the best mode of transport as it doesn’t only save your time but also makes your journey easier and more convenient. However, this magical city is accessible via all modes of transport yet the easiest way to get into this city is by flying. Board the flight to Delhi and then from there take a train to Varanasi.

Many of the trains have a stopover in Allahabad and then on reaching the Varanasi Railway Station, you can easily hire a taxi or cab to reach your desired destination.

Dress conservatively

Unlike other cities of the country, Varanasi is quite strict on dress code anyway, and showing too much body doesn’t only gather unwanted attention but also hampers the spiritual decorum of the place. So, make sure to carry decent dresses and do not forget to cover your shoulders and legs but this doesn’t mean that you are forced to carry full Indian dresses.
You can carry a full sleeve top covering the shoulders and pair it up with jeans or a knee-length maxi skirt would be fine.

Watch out for scams

One needs to be very wise and smart while planning your trip to Varanasi especially if you are coming from a foreign country. There are endless scams that are generally used to get travelers to cough up their rupees. You will find some touts asking for “wood” money and they will continue chasing you to explain you the facts about the ghats and will expect to earn some money.

Belittle strict at the place and tell them that you are not going to pay anything for their services and if you be lenient then they might curse you with bad karma. You also need to be very good at haggling as the boat riders ask for a ridiculous amount of money for a boat tour ride and even the taxi riders would also try to get a good commission from the tourists.
The same thing goes with the shops as they all look for high commission, so this is all in your hand to save your money.

Don’t bathe in River Ganges

The divine pilgrimage site and swimming or putting your entire feet in this holy river is a big NO for the tourists. The water of this river is used for day-to-day life activities including washing clothes, drinking, cleaning, watering plants, and many more things. There are bodies, rubbish, ashes, animals dipping, hair and all many other filthy items are thrown here. So, it’s best to maintain the sanctity of this pious river.

Watch out for bulls and bull crap

Being a spiritual city, Varanasi respects cows immensely as a deity and worships them as a true goddess. There seems to be ten more bulls here in the city than anywhere else in the country. Cows are meant to be the living incarnation of Lord Shiva and as the city is believed to have been founded by Lord Shiva, so it does make sense.

However, it might be quite scary to move around the narrow lanes where cows are found walking freely and as a consequence, the lanes of the city are full of cow poo. So, you need to be very alert while walking and keep an eye on the ground so that you don’t get slipped out in the middle of the roads.

Be careful while enjoying the nightlife in the city

Varanasi is not at all a party place and walking along the labyrinth of the narrow lanes can be a tough job even during the daytime then think of the situation at night. If in case it is an emergency then buddy up with someone when heading out in the evenings. If you are a solo female traveler then you should definitely avoid coming out of your hotel room as the city is not at all safe for females outings after it gets dark.

Take proper precautions as the pollution of the city can be quite horrendous

The streets of the city are always found crowded and congested with a number of vehicles and sometimes you might stuck in the traffic for hours. It is always better to cover your nose and mouth with a cloth or wear a mask to avoid falling sick due to pollution and stop some of it getting in your lungs. We would recommend you to hire a taxi for traveling and also carry an inhaler for a better breathe.

Do not click pictures of the cremation ghats

The travelers are strictly prohibited to click photos of the cremation ghats and the rituals performed there as it is counted as disrespecting the feelings of the deceased family. The moment you take out your camera or phone to take photos you will hear an alarming sound coming from a distance.

Keep your belonging safe and secure

The city is full of pick pockets especially the areas around the Cantonment Railway Station, so be smart and make sure to keep your belongings locked properly. Keep an eye on your valuable stuffs when you walk through the market areas and the ghats where evening Ganga Arti is organized. It’s better to leave your valuable items at your accommodation and carry only essentials while heading out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below stated are few of the most common questions and worries that run in the mind of almost every traveler and most likely for foreigners.

Q1. How safe is Varanasi for traveling?

Ans. Varanasi is called by many nicknames including “The city of thieves” and the city is not famous for its enlightened attitude towards the female travelers and the locals too. But this should not be hamper your plan of visiting Varanasi as there are certain tips and tricks that you can follow to avoid any wrongdoing at the place.

Q2. What is the best time to visit Varanasi?

Ans. October to March is believed to be the best time to visit this religious city as this is the time when the weather is quite pleasing and favorable. Winters are albeit chilly at night and are quite refreshing and pleasant. During the summer months, the climate is very hot where the temperature sometimes goes above 40 degrees Celsius.

Q3. How to get to Varanasi?

Ans. The city is pretty well connected to many nearby cities of the country including Delhi, Agra, Lucknow, Allahabad, etc. via all modes of transport, especially through railways. If you are coming from a far city then it’s better to opt for a flight to cover the distance between your city and Varanasi.

Q4. What are some of the must-buy things here?

Ans. Banarasi Silk, other silk products, carpets, handicrafts, handloom products, religious items, etc. are a few of the must-buy souvenirs from Varanasi.

Popularly called as Banaras or Kashi, Varanasi is one of the most ancient cities in the world which is quite blissful and peaceful. This city of light happens to be one of the most astonishing pilgrimage sites for Hindus where most of the people come to this place to wash away their committed sins by taking a dip into River Ganges.

Strolling around the gorgeous ghats and capturing the mesmerizing and soul-soothing beauty of sunrise and sunset on the River Ganges is something that every traveler craves for and thousands of tourists visit here for several purposes. Being a spiritual city, Varanasi is bestowed with several markets where you can shop almost everything you look for. There are separate shops and markets for clothes, handicrafts, accessories, idols, and many more things.

We are sharing a beautifully compiled list of some of the great market areas in Varanasi where you can shop out your heart content.

Thatheri Bazaar

One of the most preferred and crowded markets in the city Thatheri Bazaar attracts shopaholics with religious artifacts made of copper. This happens to be the only place in Varanasi where travelers can buy antiques that are adorned with stone trim work. If you love doing street shopping then Thatheri Bazaar is a perfect place for you as brass vendors sit on the road and sell the products.

Quite famous for silk and brocades, the market is flooded with different shops selling silk and woolen items. Also, if you have a keen interest in designing and decorating your home and want to get some home decor items then you must take out your time to come here.

Timings: 10 am to 8 pm

What to buy? Copper products, brass products, religious items, handicrafts, and silk products

Godowlia Market

One of the must-visit places in Varanasi, Godowlia Market remains crowded with local folks as well as Indian and foreign travelers. There are numerous shops lined up one after one selling different items especially household items. You can also buy clothing materials, hardware items, and décor items at reasonable rates but you might have to haggle a lot for this.

In simple words, we can say that it is one of those places where you can get almost everything that is needed for your everyday life.

Timings: Between 10 am and 9 pm

What to buy? Décor items and clothing material

Vishwanath Gali

An exciting place if you are looking for some street shopping in the city, Vishwanath Gali provides you some of the best options where you can find the stuffs within budget. Dresses, Benarasi Sarees, music CDs, jewelry, sweets, handicrafts, etc are some of the most bought products. Designer Kurtis are also the favorite items among the locals as well as travelers.

Also, if you are looking for the idols of brass and wood then you must visit this shopping hub here. The moment you enter into this Gali you see innumerable street food stalls established at every corners of the area.

Timings: Between 10 am and 8 pm

What to buy? Benarasi Saree, Jewelries, Dresses, Music CDs, Devotional Objects, and many more products.

Harmony Book Shop

Those who have a voracious appetite for books shall definitely keep Harmony Book Shop high on your list. Here, at this shop, you can buy some exclusive books on Hinduism, Yoga, and facts about the city. This happens to be the only place in the country that you can get your hands at on “Forest of Bliss”, a famous book and documentary by Robert Gardner. City Book Shop is the other popular and worth visit place near Godowlia.

Timings: Between 10 am and 8 pm

What not to miss here? Do not forget to read or buy “Forest of Bliss”.

Zindagi Jewelry Shop

Jewelry is the most obvious thing that women really care about and never gets satisfied with the collection. However, Varanasi is filled with some really tiny yet wonderful jewelry shops but you need to be very alert while buying your heart contents as you might get fooled and looted with the artificial products. In this market, you get to see some really amazing modern and traditional designs of jewelry.

What makes your shopping more special is that the shops share some percentage of their earnings for women empowerment and other social causes. The staffs and the store owner are very polite and ensure that they provide the best services to their customers.

Timings: Between 10 am and 8 pm

What to buy? Gold and silver designed jewelries

The Bed Silk and Pashmina

This magical city of Uttar Pradesh is also visited for the exciting and interesting shopping options as here one can get the best quality silk products at very affordable rates. The Bed Silk and Pashmina shop is considered to be the best shopping hub for those who are looking for silk products and Pashmina. The store is well known in the city for the table covers, pillowcases, Pashminas, bedsheets, clothes, etc.

Timings: 9 am to 7 pm

What to buy? Bed covers, pillowcases, table clothes, etc.

Favorite of Varanasi Souvenirs

People come to this city for all possible reasons and below mentioned are some of the best recommendations as souvenirs to bring back for your family and friends.

Banarasi Silk Saree

Having a Banarasi Saree in the closet is a dream and desire of almost every Indian woman even if they don’t prefer wearing a saree. The city is worldwide famous for its silk products especially silk saris. No matter which street you enter, you are surely going to find shops of Benarasi saree where one can find a variety of colors and shades.

Explore some of the most popular areas in the city from where you can purchase the finest quality of Sari for your grandmother, mother, sister, or wife. Wholesale shops in the Thatheri Bazaar and Peelikothi area of Varanasi are the two massively crowded market areas where you can buy the best quality products at reasonable rates.

Timings: Most of the shops open at 10 in the morning and closes by 9 pm.

What to buy? Benarasi Silk Saree and hand-knotted carpets

Ganga Jal- The holy water of River Ganga

Inarguably, Ganga Jal or the holy Ganga water is the biggest export from Varanasi and as you stroll around the ghats you would see heaps of plastic gallons of varied size. Devotees buy these cans to fill them up with the holy water and take it back to their homes. If you are coming from a distant place then go for small cooper cans that are nicely packed to prevent any leakage.

Lal Pedha

Dharwad Pedha and Mathura Pedha are believed to be the two types of Pedhas that dominate South and North India respectively. Varanasi is very much famous for selling sweets and Lal Pedha, the more roasted version of the Pedhas. The sweet is stuffed with dry fruits and loaded with ghee and this gives it a crunchy flavor. Try buying it from the shop near Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple or the sweet shops of Kachori Gali.

Crystal and Stone Shivalinga

The moment you share about your Varanasi trip with your family, friends, or near and dear ones they will ask you to pick up a crystal Shivalinga or Sphatika. These transparent white Shivalingas are made up of crystal and Hindus keep it in their homes to worship and even some people keep it in their bags for good luck. These Shivalingas are found in different sizes and the smallest one costs you around 100.

Rudraksha Mala

The textured seed of the Rudraksha tree is believed to be the most organic jewelry that the saints have been wearing from time immemorial. Rudraksha happens to be the earlier form of Shiva and means tear of Lord Rudra and is believed to be a very spiritual seed that is worn with a lot of devotion and faith. Do not forget to take it off when you go to the washroom or any unclean or impure places.

Brassware

The city is pretty reckoned for an array of clay, brass, and copperware products that are generally used on some special occasions like puja rituals. The brass water pot or the “Kamandal” is a favorite pick amongst other products made of brass. If you are also interested to purchase it then visit the areas near temples where the shops are lined up with such products.

Gulabi Minakari

The hidden or lesser-known craft of Varanasi, Gulabi Minakari is a carving done on precious metals like silver and gold. The silverwork generally happens in western India- Gujarat, and Rajasthan. The Gulabi Minakari in pink color is done only in this spiritual capital of India and you should visit the bylanes near Gai Ghat to witness the hard work of craftsmen.

So, which one of the above-listed products attracted you, and is your favorite pick? Do you have any suggestions or recommendations to add to this list? Write them down in the comment box and we ensure to add them up to the list.

Suggested Tours

• Varanasi Tour Packages
• Varanasi Allahabad Tour
• Varanasi Allahabad Ayodhya Tour
• Varanasi Sightseeing Tour
• Allahabad Varanasi Puri Tour
• Varanasi Bodhgaya Chitrakoot Tour
• Varanasi Temple Tour
• Uttar Pradesh Tour Packages

Tired of spending your day in a usual manner? If yes, then why don’t you plan for a trip to Varanasi and enjoy the eccentric nightlife experience. This spiritual city of India is established gracefully on the banks of River Ganges and is immensely popular for Benarasi Silk Sarees. The remnants and the findings at Rajghat demonstrate that it is one of the most ancient inhabited cities in the world.

This magical city holds huge significance in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism and the origin of Ayurveda medication. Nightlife in Varanasi is so sophisticated and splendid offering unique and irresistible experience to the travelers. Those who wonder what else they can do in the city for besides witnessing religious experiences then this article will help them in knowing more about nightlife in Varanasi.

Go for a boat ride in River Ganges

Nourished by River Ganga, Varanasi is believed to be one of the spiritual and cities of the country due to its association with Lord Shiva. River Ganga takes the spiritual aura of this notch higher due to its association with Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva, and Lord Brahma, the trinity of Hindus. It is really a mesmeric site wherein travelers and the locals gather every night around the Ghat and offering prayers to the holy river.

Enjoying boat ride and witnessing the captivation glory of surroundings and the gorgeous river adorned with colorful diyas and flowers, is something that one must not miss in Varanasi.

Exploring the most happening nightclubs in Varanasi

Nightlife in Varanasi is quite elegant and magnificent that attracts several travelers and local folks from different places to hover around in the city. There are numerous nightclubs and pubs in the city and a few of them are enlisted in this post. Do you count yourself a party animal? If yes, then get ready to spend some wonderful moments at these night places.

Trishna Pubs

One of the most happening and topmost night clubs of this spiritual city and the interior of this is super amazing and is painted gracefully with light colors. Some good seating and proper furnishing of table matching with the bright color painted walls makes this place more gorgeous. The food served tastes so enticing and treats your taste buds with lip-smacking food and special brands of drinks served including vodka shots, beers, etc.

Activity Cost: INR 2000 for 2 guests

Entry timings: between 11 am and 11 pm

Prinsep Ba

This small-sized yet very popular bar established in order to pay respect to James Princep, a great famous artist. He is one of those great artists who have made some great sketches of the ghats and the temples in Varanasi. This high class bear bar with the mixed magic of old times and serves you with finger-licking, scotch, and other delectable cuisines to elevate your taste.

The simple yet classy interior designing of this bar attracts tourists and the locals in a huge number. If you are on a honeymoon or looking for wine tasting then you shall definitely explore this place.

Activity Cost: INR 2000 for 2 persons

Entry timings: between 12 pm and 11 pm

Windsor Bar

One of the most wonderful places to witness an exciting nightlife in Varanasi, Windsor Bar offers its guests with refreshing drinks to enjoy with your friends and other travel companions. This cozy bar serves you with refreshing drinks like wines, vodka shots, etc. at reasonable rates. The interior of the bar seems too soothing as the walls are painted with vibrant colors and filled with wonderful furniture.

This relaxing and cozy place serves you with delectable cuisines and that too at very reasonable rates. The staffs working here are quite humble and well mannered and this attracts youth to enjoy some special moment.

Activity Cost: INR 1200 for 2 people

Entry timings: the bar is opened throughout the day

Mangi Ferra Pub

Those who are on a Varanasi trip with their friends and looking for a night party and that also under your budget then you must consider Mangi Ferra Pub. This happens to be one of the most wonderful pubs to enjoy some refreshing drinks and lip-smacking snacks at very affordable rates. Likewise, other pubs and nightclubs Mangi Ferra Pub is also painted with cool colors and is filled with furniture of vibrant color.

Also, the seating arrangement of the pub is very nice and comfortable so that the customers can enjoy their fun gossips with your friends and closed ones. You can also enjoy the mouth-watering eateries along with some refreshing drinks.

Activity Cost: INR 600 for 2 people

Entry Timing: between 11 am and 11 pm

Shop out your heart’s content

Experiencing Nightlife in Varanasi and quenching your shopping desire is a fantastic thing that one must not miss out in the tiny hours of sunset. Get yourself indulged in shopping out ornate jewels, beautiful silk sarees, and several other things to buy as a souvenir. Thatheri Bazaar and Vishwanath Gali are the two most renowned shopping hubs in Varanasi. Generally, the market areas in the city gets open by 9:30 am and close at 10 pm.

In this post, we have enlisted some of the best night clubs of Varanasi and other places that you can explore to spend some really amazing moments with your family and friends. Varanasi is a city that welcomes huge influx of tourists every year and if you haven’t booked your tickets yet then hurry up and book your Varanasi tour packages with us.

Frequently Asked Questions

Let’s discuss some very common questions that everyone wants to enjoy their nightlife in Varanasi, the spiritual city of India.

Q1. Do bars and pubs serve in Varanasi serve vegetarian food?

Ans- If you are a vegetarian and looking to binge on vegetarian foods but confused whether you will get your favorite dishes or not then throw all your worries away as the bars and clubs of the city offers vegetarian dishes.

Q2. Is there any specific dress code one has to follow in the bars?

Ans- Not compulsory at every nightclub and bars but yes there are certain places where you will have to follow the dress codes. You can check out the official website of the particular place you are planning to visit.

Q3. What are the nightclubs in the city ideal for?

Ans– the bars and the nightclubs in Varanasi are ideal for a group of friends, solo, and the couple who have come here to give a beautiful start to their newly married life.

Q4. Do we need to make any prior reservations at the nightclubs and bars in the city?

Ans– Many of the bars and pubs are opened for a particular period of time due to the strict guidelines of the particular area where they are located. Hence, you need to do prior bookings for your entry to such places.

Q5. What is the approximate activity cost in the bars?

Ans– The cost varies accordingly however, it ranges between 600 and 2500 depending upon the facilities, services and many other parameters.

One of the oldest inhabited cities in the world, Varanasi or Benaras or Kashi is all about finding an immense calmness in the chaos. This spiritual city is a perfect blend of art, crafts, culture, language, food, and religion. Temples, Ghats, Heritage sites, and monuments adorn the city that itself breathes in a culture even older than the native of the city.

Sprawling along the water of River Ganga, Varanasi is a great centre of Indian culture, and visiting here offers a perfect opportunity for travelers to feel the movements in course of history and the changing patterns. The city showcases the rich and unique style of folk art and other art forms. Varanasi is quite popular for its beautiful Silk Sarees, Toys, Ornaments, Textiles, Clay, Metal Work, Wood Work, and other crafts.

The city has fascinating charm and spiritual challenge that can be witnessed in its exaggerated rituals, cultural activities, and the admiring festivals celebrated in the city. Keep scrolling down the pages to know in detail to witness this spiritually chaotic city at least once in your lifetime.

Culture of Varanasi – Traditional Dress, Art, Music and Dance

The world-famous evening Ganga Arti

The first thing that comes to the mind of every traveler is the gorgeous ghats- Assi, Manikarnika, Dasaswamedha, Scindia, etc. where all the divine ghats are famous in their own terms and have their own significance. Dashashwamedh happens to be one of the most happening and popular ghats in the city where pilgrims from all around the city gather to enchant the spiritual prayers of Goddess Ganga.

A visual retreat for the travelers, this evening Aarti starts just after the sunset and continues uninterrupted for the next 45 minutes. The rhythmic bells, the enchanting, and the brass lit lamps floating in the gorgeously flowing River Ganges. Attending this spiritual ceremony is considered to be one of those experiences that one shouldn’t miss out.

Renowned Temples of Varanasi

There are thousands of small as well as huge temples established all over the city where all of them are dedicated to different deities.

Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Hindus believe that Kashi is nestled atop the trident of Lord Shiva and hence the temple has been named so. The pilgrimage is dedicated to Shiva, the supreme deity of Hindus, and holds a Shivlinga established below the ground level. This ancient temple is bestowed with a golden spire 750 kg of gold donated by Maharaja Ranjit Singh of Punjab in 1839.

However, the temple is believed to have been constructed in the year 1777 by Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore. Because of its golden spire, the temple is also famous as the golden temple of the city and the Shivlinga of the shrine is enlisted amongst the top 12 Jyotirlingas in the country.

Annapurna Temple: Located closer to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, there is another popular temple dedicated to Goddess Annapurna. When you enter inside the temple you get to see the bronze idol of the deity idolized on a silver platform. The golden idol of the temple is opened once a year only for public visits.

Bharat Mata Temple: The only temple dedicated to Mother India, Bharat Mata Mandir boasts of one of the most perfect maps of the country carved out of marble. Shri Durga Prasad Khatri, an antiquarian and a great numismatist, and the great nationalist Shri Babu Shiv Prasad Gupta gifted this temple to the city. This magnificent was then inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi.

Alamgir Mosque: One of the most eminent destinations of Islam followers, Alamgir Mosque is popularly called as Beni Mahadeo Rao in the early seventeenth century and there was a temple at the place. Later, the temple was destroyed by Aurangzeb and then a mosque was raised at the same place. The structure depicts a perfect blend of Hindu as well as Mughal architecture.

Sarnath: One of the hugely frequented Buddhist sites in India, Sarnath holds a wealth of religious tradition as well as archaeological remains. This Buddhist site is believed to be the same spot where Lord Buddha delivered his first speech after attaining enlightenment. This Buddhist site attracts thousands of tourists, students, historians, and archaeologists from all over the country and globe.

Delectable and highly nutritious food

Strolling around the narrow lanes of this cultural capital of India is a perfect idea to binge on the irresistible mouth-watering snacks. Kachori- Sabzi, Dahi Vale Golgappe, Samosa, and Dahi- Rabri are some of the most ordered snacks in Varanasi. The city is also very much famous for its different flavored Paani Puri, Dahi Bade, Aloo Chat, Tamatar Chat, and Lassi. Gujiya is the most loved and popular sweet here that is served on almost every occasion.

Being a religious city, you need to maintain the discipline and the decorum of the city, you are advised to binge on vegetarian dishes. Veg Thali of the city contains multiple lip-smacking and pretty nutritious food items. To top it all off, Benarasi Paan is quite famous for its freshness and is generally eaten after the meal to freshen up.

Classical Music and Dance

Benaras Gharana is nationwide popular in the art of Tabla playing and the maestros like Kishan Maharaj, Samta Prasad, and others come from the city only. Also, on every Saturday and Wednesday evening, you can witness the music of the city at International Music Centre Ashram.

Dance forms of Varanasi

Kathak- a form of dance depicting storytelling and mythological narration.

Raslila- dance-cum drama explaining the love and life of Lord Krishna. This dance form is performe on almost every auspicious occasions related to Krishna.

Ramlila- dance-cum drama explaining the life of Lord Rama which is generally performed during the festive season of Dussehra. Tabla and Harmonium are the two major musical instruments used for this typical mythology dance form.

A harmonious mix of beliefs

This beautiful city of Uttar Pradesh represents the era-old long tradition of harmony and love prevalent in Indian culture. Only after covering the distance of 12 km from the main city you reach Sarnath, the admiring Buddhist site. You can also explore the magnificent archaeological museum that houses objects and artifacts dating back to the Mauryan period. Sarnath is home to Chaukhandi and Dhamek Stupas and there are five galleries established here.

Inside these galleries, you get to see the captivating images of Bodhisattvas, Lord Buddha, divinities, and many others. Exploring the popular Ashoka Stambh offers you a perfect opportunity to witness the grace and the valor of that particular time period. This small, chaotic yet soothing city has been a mystery for several artists for the last many years.

Language

More than 95 percent of the city population speaks Hindi and almost 3 percent uses Urdu as their communicating language and the rest of the people use Bhojpuri to interact with others. If we go through the history of this place then we will realize that Sanskrit is the oldest language of Varanasi. Also, nowadays English has become very popular here as thousands of foreign tourists visit here and English is the only language they understand.

Literature

Benaras was once the center of religious learning, hence, it was named as Sarva Vidya Ki Rajdhani (the capital of knowledge of everything). There were many intellects, scholars, and others in different fields born in this city, and several Universities were also established here in the past. Bharatendu Harishchandra, Tulsidas, Tegh Ali, Kabir Das, and many other great personalities thrived here.

Varanasi also thrived in Panchkarma treatment and Ayurveda medical education and Sushruta, the author of the very popular medical book namely Sushruta Samhita is believed to have spent several years of his life and attained his training in Varanasi only.

Religions

The city is believed to be the birthplace of the three main religions of India- Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. River Ganga plays a key role in maintaining the spiritual beliefs and rituals followed by the religions especially Hinduism. Besides being home to more than 3000 temples, Varanasi is also blessed with 9 Buddhist monasteries, 3 churches, 1388 mosques, and 3 Jain temples.

Clothing

Varanasi or Benaras is a spiritual land with strongly held and dignified life values. People living in this city are known for their simplicity and decent clothing and they don’t follow the western culture. Hence, tourists are also expected to respect their traditions and maintain their dignity by wearing decent clothes.

Both males and females are required to cover their neck area properly and also they should carry dresses that stretch below the knee. However, the travelers are advised to consider the climate first and then plan their dress accordingly.

Art

Centuries back, the city happened to be the centre of culture and tradition because of its unique art culture. Historians and the locals believe that the modern tradition followed by the local folks is all inspired by the ancient tradition, art, and culture. The city was quite popular for its performing arts and other artwork.

Some very interesting facts about the city

• Varanasi or Benaras or Kashi call it by any name you want, is believed to be the oldest surviving cities of the globe.
• It happened to be the hugely frequented epicenter for learning yoga, holistic healing science, Ayurveda, natural science, and many other informative educational training.
• The city is known as the spiritual and cultural capital of India.
• There is nothing to deny the fact that Varanasi is the leading trade center for Benarasi Silk, other silk products, gold brocades, silver articles, and many more.
• Benaras Hindu University (BHU) is the oldest and the largest university of Asia where travelers from all across the world come.
• There are more than 3000 small and big temples established in the city devoted to different deities and religions.
• There is an unflinching belief in Hinduism that one who takes his last breath in this particular city reaches to heaven. There have been many cases found where people jumped into the river to take their lives to attain salvation and reach heaven.
• Varanasi is said to be the city bestowed with a maximum number of ghats i.e. a total of 88 ghats are established there.

India, the land of diversity celebrates several festivals and festivals are some of the best excuses to plan for a vacation. Enjoying the festive season of Varanasi adds more fun, joy, and thrill to your Varanasi tour and make it even more memorable and exciting. Varanasi happens to be one of the holiest places as it is bestowed with several ancient temples, Ghats, and many other religious sites.

Festivals in Varanasi have a special meaning and remain to be the heart of unmatched Hindu culture. Check out the list of the below listed Varanasi festivals that make the travelers lose themselves in the vibe. Buddha Purnima, Chhath Puja, Kumbh Mela, Durga Puja, Ganga Dussehra, and many more.

Fairs and Festivals of Varanasi

Ganga Mahotsav

One of the most happening and famous festivals in Varanasi, Ganga Mahotsav is celebrated every year to pay honor and tribute to River Ganga. The festival continues for 5 long days and it is believed to be a perfect opportunity to the traditional and cultural vibrancy that this holy city exhibits. You will be amazed to witness the fun, music, and the colorful dance that you find here.

There are several names that are linked to this auspicious occasion which has performances by some well-known personalities namely Balmurli Krishna, Vilayat Khan, and Ustad Bismillah Khan. The combination of music touching the soul and the spiritual aura of the city takes the glory of the festival to the next level.

When do we celebrate it?

The celebration of the festivity starts 15 days prior to Diwali and usually occurs in the month of October/ November.

Maha Shivratri

A festival celebrated with great pomp and enthusiasm and that too in the entire country with a lot of enthusiasm and you will see thousands of pilgrims gathering inside the temple to worship Lord Shiva, the supreme deity of Hindus. This auspicious annual festival is organized every year on the 14th day of Phalgun and this marks the ending of the winter months.

It is believed that visiting this temple on Maha Shivratri and doing the philosophy of the deity with complete sincerity fulfill all your dreams and desires. The ceremony of the wedding procession of Lord Shiva with Goddess Parvati commences late in the evening and continues till next morning.

When do we celebrate it?

This grand occasion is organized every year on the very 14th day of Phalgun month.

Holi

One of the most significant Hindu festivals celebrated in Varanasi is Holi, the festival of colors. The entire city looks immensely colorful and filled with positivity and people over here celebrate the festival with great pomp and enthusiasm. You get to see several people celebrate this festival of colors by throwing them in the air and by bursting the balloons filled with water and colors.

Holi in Varanasi is celebrated in a wonderful manner that no one would ever want to forget in their entire life.

When do we celebrate it?

This Hindu festival is celebrated in the month of Phalgun.

Dev Deepawali

Organized every year on the 15th day of Kartik month, Dev Deepawali is one of the most auspicious occasions celebrated in Varanasi. People in the city take part in this festive season with great joy, fun, and enthusiasm to honor the divine river Ganga. Likewise, Diwali, in this festival people of Varanasi start cleaning their homes and ghats at least a week before and this shows that how significant this festival is for Hindus.

There is a belief among the locals that the gods and goddesses come down on the earth from the heavenly sphere to celebrate with the masses. Visiting the holy Ghats in the city offers you a unique experience as this is the day where several Diyas are placed carefully all around the Ghats and the steps. One can witness the traditional and cultural performances like Dancing, Singing, Recitals, Kushti, etc.

When is this festival celebrated?

Dev Deepawali is organized every year on the fifth day of Kartik month with great pomp and positivity.

Makar Sankranti

Popularly celebrated as Kite festival in Gujarat, Makar Sankranti is celebrated as Pongal in the southern regions where as in some parts of the nation, the day is celebrated as Lohri. It happens to be one of the great Varanasi festivals and the sight of the city is pretty admiring that one love to fall in love with. The entire city is dipped in immense spiritualism and devotion.

Makar Sankranti falls every year on 14th of January and the local folks prepare some great delicacies and many other delectable cuisines associated with the occasion.

When is this festival celebrated?

Unlike several other festival of the city, Makar Sankranti is celebrated every year on a fixed date i.e. on 14th of January.

Annakut

One of the most astonishing, fun, and holy festivals that is celebrated every year on the 4th day of Diwali, the festival of lights. As per the Vikram Samvat calendar, the day is believed to be the first day of the New Year. Many of the rituals that take place in this festival are intricately linked to several rituals of Diwali.

This happens to be the day when the devotes offer their prayers and gratitude for Lord Krishna and the rituals are then followed during Govardhan Puja.

When is Annakut festival celebrated?

This festival is organized on the very fourth day of Diwali.

Akshaya Tritiya

One of the most happening and preferred time to plan your trip to Varanasi as celebrating this people in the city offers you an incredible experience. Also called as Akha Teej, this festival happens to be one of the grand festivals of Varanasi. This astonishing occasion is beautifully reflects the wonderful connection of Akha Teej sharing with River Ganga, the holiest river of the country.

Akshaya Tritiya is believed to be the same day when Goddess Ganga had come from the heavenly to the earthly sphere. Another popular belief among Hindus about this festival is associated with Lord Kuber, the custodian of wealth. It is believed that the deity earned his position and name on this very special day.

When is this festival celebrated?

The festival is celebrated in the month of Baisakh.

Panchkosi Parikrama

One of the most spiritual Varanasi festivals, Panch Kosi is believed to be an important and vital festival for the women of the country. As per Hindu mythology, Panch Kosi Parikrama will only be completed when the pilgrims passes through the five divine sites of Rameshwar, Kardmeshwar, Kapildhara, Shivpur, and Bhimchandi. This important ancient Parikrama commences from Manikarnika Ghat and concludes at the same point only.

The married ladies of the city wakes up very early in the morning to participate in their procession and starts their Parikrama by taking a refreshing bath in River Ganges. During the Parikrama they are not allowed to feed themselves and can only eat food after they finish their procession.

When is this festival celebrated?

There is no specific date to complete this Parikrama and one can complete this activity in Phalgun, Vaishakh, and Chaitra.

Chhath Puja

A very popular Hindu festival celebrated with great pomp and enthusiasm, Chhath Puja is a festival that holds a diverse history. In this festival, the local folks worship the setting sun in the evening and next morning they worship the rising sun. The festival is devoted to the god of energy or sun and it is believed to be the day where devotees thank Lord Sun by fasting for the entire day.

They offer their prayers and perform several rituals to God Sun and stand in water. The devotees prepare a special Prasad to offer the deity and offer sugarcane, dry fruits, fruits, etc. and offer them all as Arghya to the deity. Hindus believe that worshipping sun helps in curing several diseases like leprosy.

When is this festival celebrated?

This auspicious and hugely significant Hindu festival is several twice a year i.e. in the month of April and then in the month of October/ November.

Dhanteras

Another famous Varanasi festival, Dhanteras is celebrated every year on the very first day of Diwali and is popularly called as Dhanvantari Trayodashi. This festival is celebrated between October and November and is a lifelong festival organized on the Trayodashi day of Krishna Paksha. This is the day when the devotees pay their offerings to Goddess Lakshmi to attain not only a wealthy life but also prosperous.

Hindus believe that worshipping Goddess Lakshmi with complete sincerity blesses them with a great monetary value for the entire year. Hence, if you are looking for a great time to plan your holiday in Varanasi then Dhanteras happens to be the perfect time where you can participate in the happening Dhanteras Puja celebrated with great zeal, show, pomp, and enthusiasm.

When is this festival celebrated?

Dhanteras is one of the most auspicious festivals of Varanasi celebrated on the very first day of Diwali, the color of Light.

Hanuman Jayanti

This divine festival is celebrated to mark the birth of Lord Hanuman, a deity in Vanara Avatar and the Rudra avatar of Lord Shiva. The day is celebrated on the spiritual occasion of Chaitra Purnima or Shukla Paksha. Almost everyone in the city makes their way to explore the Hanuman Temples to seek the blessing of the deity. This Hindu festival represents power and pure energy represented by Lord Hanuman.

When is this festival celebrated?

This special day is organized on the full moon day of Chaitra month that usually falls on 14th day of Ashwin.

Above enlisted are some of the most famous Varanasi festivals where you can enjoy a wonderful time celebrating these auspicious festive seasons. Participating in these festivals let you will totally transform your life and make you get closer to the vibrant and splendid culture of Varanasi. So what are you waiting for now? Plan your Varanasi tour and enjoy these festivals with your family, friends, and other loved ones.

What comes to your mind first when you think of Varanasi tourism? You must be wondering about the magnificent Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Varanasi Ghats, Silk emporium or the narrow lanes of the city. But, how can one forget talking about the lip-smacking eateries starting from mouth-watering Pani Puri to the sweet seduction of Thandai and desserts. It is quite obvious to say that Varanasi is a complete package of fun and never disheartens travel enthusiasts.

A trip is said incomplete unless you binge on delectable delicacies of Banaras that represents a quintessential part of Varanasi’s culture. Check out the list of a few handpicked locations and special delicacies that tickle your taste buds on your Varanasi tour.

Kachori Sabzi

One of the most happening and loved breakfast dishes in the city, Kachori Sabzi is prepared with two different types of Kachoris- Badi and Chhoti Kachori. Spicy mashed potato mix is used to prepare the filling of Choti Kachori where as Badi Kachori is stuffed with Dal Ki Pithi prepared with spicy mixture cooked with lentils. These flavored kachoris are served with an aromatic and tangy Aloo curry.

Aloo Curry is cooked with a generous amount of black pepper and cloves and to make it spicier and more flavorful, dry red chillies and green chillies are added to the curry.

Where to try? Thatheri Bazaar, Kachori Gali, and Ram Bhandar

Choora Matar

A beautiful blend of Chiwda of Bihar and Maharashtrian Poha, Choora Matar is prepared with flattened rice soaked in pure Desi Ghee and then cooked with spices along with raisins, saffron, and green peas. You can either have it as a famous morning meal or evening snack. Certain spices like black pepper, hing, and garam masala are added to this eatery to enhance its taste and aroma. Some people even add cream or Milk to enhance the texture and flavor of the dish.

Where to try? Gopal Mandir Gali

Dahi Chutney Gol Gappe

Popularly called as Meethe Golgappe, this eatery is a perfect blend of sweet and spicy delight that are loved by children as well as adults too. The crispy Gol Gappas are filled with a flavored mixture of smashed potatoes and then garnished with curd flavored with Imli, tangy chutney, Pudina, and a few more spices. Pomegranate is also added as a topping and as the last garnishment of the platter.

The moment you put these Waterballs in your mouth, you get to enjoy different flavors added as the topping.

Where to try? Gol Ganj and Deena Chaat Bhandar

Baati Chokha

One of the most popular delicacies in Bihar, Baati Chokha is served as delicious street food in Varanasi also. Roasted Chana Dal and spices are stuffed inside the whole wheat dough balls and these balls are only called as Litties. The wheat dough balls are roasted over charcoal and later on dipped generously in pure desi ghee. The litties are then served with Chokha, a spicy mixture of brinjal, tomato, and potato.

Where to try? Puran Das Road

Tamatar Chaat

Another popular local version of Aloo Chaat, this dish is prepared with a mashed mixture of boiled tomatoes, potatoes, green chillies, onions, and fresh coriander leaves. This lip-smacking spicy chaat is quite hot to handle and if you are a faint-hearted person then you must not try this eatery. Red Chilly powder, pounded ginger, garam masala, and other few spices are added in this dish to make it more delicious. The dish is served in a bowl made up of Palash leaves.

Where to try? Deena Chaat Bhandar, Dashashwamedh Ghat

Chena Dahi Vada

Are you also a curd lover? If yes, then raise your hands and move towards Dasaswamedh Ghat to enjoy this sumptuous variation to the regular bhallas filled with lentils. Looks pretty much similar to Rasmalai, Chena Dahi Vada is generally served with “Meethi Dahi” sprinkled with a pinch of black salt and jeera. Streaming cup of tea adds more flavor to these Dahi Vadas, a quite popular snack to have in breakfast.

It happens to be a great snack offering an amalgamation of sweet and sour flavors. Garnishing of coriander leaves make it more delectable and refreshing.

Where to try? Deena Chat Bhandar, Dasaswamedh Ghat

Malaiyyo

Nimish or Makhan Malaiyyo is one of the most preferred desserts to savor in Varanasi especially during the winter months. Inspired by Persian culture, Malaiyyo is prepared by churning the milk to prepare a creamy texture. This milk cream is then added with cardamoms and saffron and is then garnished with almonds and pistachios on the top. Perfectly sweet and very light, Malaiyyo is generally served in Kulhads or Purva.

It happens to be a well-preserved secret of this religious city and one can experience it only when they visit this eternal city. This creamy delicacy will definitely melt in your mouth.

Where to try? Kachori Gali and Neelkanth

Thandai

Varanasi is reckoned for fairly high production of milk and curd and this is why these products are profoundly used in almost every dish. Banarasi Thandai is very much popular for its celebratory spirit and refreshing and soul-soothing taste. Cooked with Puree, the seasonal fruit, this sweet beverage is served in a Kulhad flavored with ice cream, rose essence, nuts, and fruits and is topped with Rabri.

Magajtari seeds, vetiver seeds, fennel seeds, pepper, saffron, and cardamom add rich and refreshing flavors to the beverage. Adding Thandai in the menu of Holi party is quite compulsory and a kick of Bhang is also added in Thandai on this auspicious Hindu festival.

Where to try? Blue Lassi Shop, Kachori Gali Chowk

Banarasi Paan

Everyone must have heard of this Bollywood song “Khai Ke Paan Banaras Wala” featured by the great Indian actor, Amitabh Bachchan. This Paan is something that one must not skip trying when you are in the city. It is prepared with beetle nut leaves and supari, an amalgamation of condiments and lime, and is eaten with lime or tobacco. You can also try Meetha Paan, devoid of lime or tobacco, and is garnished with fennel seeds, sweetened rose petals, and soft and chewy beetle nuts.

Where to try? Deepak Tambul Bhandar, Dashashwamedh Ghat, and Rajendra Chourasia Paan, Chowk Thana.

Rabdi Jalebi

Another most loved sweet dish served in Varanasi is Rabdi Jalebi which is prepared with pure desi ghee. If you are fond of confectionaries and looking for sweet, crispy, and juicy jalebis are sold here like hotcakes. The city has some of the well-cooked Rabris that are easily available at any of the well-known sweet shops. The flavor and delicacy of Jalebi tastes good when served with Rabri and having them along with Kachori Sabzi is another great idea.

Where to try? Madhur Jalpan shop serves some really amazing Jalebis.

Launglata

However, served throughout the year yet usually prepared on the festive occasion of Holi, Launglata is a sweet dish served at almost every shop in Varanasi. This sweet eatery is cooked with crispy dough having stuffing of Mawa, Sugar, Nuts, and also find cloves stuffed in the dish.

Some of the best places in Varanasi to treat your taste buds with some amazing delicacies.

Pizzeria Vaatika Café, Assi Ghat

Established closer to Assi Ghat, Pizzeria Vaatika Café is one of the most renowned rooftop restaurants in the city. The café promises and serves you with Italian and continental dishes and also provides a few Indian dishes to attract the locals. One can also taste a variety of flavored pizzas and also apple pie is served with ice cream.

Timings: Between 7:30 am and 10 pm

Brown Bread Café

Popularly called as German Bakery, this café is established near Dasaswamedh Ghat and serves Indian, continental, European, and Italian cuisines. The dishes served here are prepared with organic grains and baked freshly. If you are looking for a light meal then you can try out the delectable pizzas, breads, rolls, and pastries. The café is very much famous for its breakfast that can be selected from vegetarian cutleries.

Timings: You can visit the place between 7 am and 10 pm.

Roof Top Restaurant

Situated at Assi Ghat, this rooftop restaurant happens to be one of the most happening places to witness the beauty of nature and offers you mesmerizing views of River Ganges providing refreshing and soul touched feel to the traveler. The restaurant serves you with mouthwatering Chinese, Indian, and Continental cuisines.

Timings: Between 7 am and 10:30 am, 2:00 to 4 pm and then from 6:30 to 10:30 pm.

Kashi Chat Bhandar

One of the most popular street food joint, Kashi Chat Bhandar is a very popular street side food that offers its guests with Indian fast food. The shop happens to be quite treasured in Varanasi and is famous for Tomato Chat served in a very small mud pot. Despite being a very small shop, Kashi Chat Bhandar is always found crowded and customers start visiting the place from early morning.

Sometimes you can see a huge queue standing for hours to taste this lip-smacking snack.

Timings: Between 4 am and 10 pm.

There are several special treats served on the narrow lanes of Varanasi and only a few of the eateries are enlisted above. Make sure to enjoy the flavored street food of Varanasi on your holiday to this gorgeous and fascinating city.

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Varanasi popularly called as Kashi or Banaras is one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world that attracts a huge influx of travelers year after year. This prominent religious and cultural hub in Uttar Pradesh is nicely connected to other major cities of the country with a good network of buses, trains, and flights. However, the city of Varanasi has incredible transit connectivity with almost every major city of the nation via all modes of transport.

Varanasi Airport, popularly called as Lal Bahadur Shashtri is very well connected with several prominent Indian cities. Kashi Railway Station and Varanasi Railway Station are the two major railway stations established in this city. Moreover, there are regular and frequent buses running from Varanasi to different nearby cities including Lucknow, Patna, Ranchi, and Gorakhpur. Reaching Varanasi by opting for railway mode is considered to be the most convenient and easiest way.

How to Reach Varanasi – By Train, Bus, Car and Air

Reaching Varanasi by Flight

The city has its own airport namely Lal Bahadur Shashtri Airport earlier called as Varanasi Airport connects the city with several other big cities of India. There are several domestic as well as international flights operate from the airport. After your flight lands collect your baggage and then come out of the airport to hire a taxi or cab to reach your desired destination.

Reaching Varanasi by Train

Varanasi has its own railway station that connects several major cities of the country with this cultural capital of India. Varanasi Railway Station is one of the busiest railheads in the state where on reaching you can easily hire a taxi or cab to reach your desired destinations. Having a vast Indian rail network, the destination is conveniently accessible from almost every nooks and corners of the nation. Hence, there is nothing wrong to say that opting for train is the perfect way to cover the distance.

Reaching Varanasi Through Roadways

Those who are traveling to Varanasi from the nearby cities shall opt for roadway as there are both private as well as government buses running between the cities including Allahabad, Lucknow, Patna, Gorakhpur, and Ranchi. However, it may be little tiring to cover the distance by bus but now AC buses are available in which you can avail the facility of sleeper seats.

The well-maintained roads and well-paved national highways make it easy and smooth for you to drive yourself to this divine city in Uttar Pradesh.

Places to visit in and around Varanasi

Excited to spend the most of your time in “The City of Light”? If yes, then keep scrolling down the page to check out the list of most happening places to explore in Varanasi.

Dasaswamedh Ghat

The lively and the serene atmosphere of the Dasaswamedh Ghat make it one of the most visited destinations in the city. This hugely crowded travel site is a swirling hodgepodge of sadhus (with painted face), boat operators providing rides along River Ganges, and the flower vendors selling colorful and bright blossoming flowers. Evening Ganga Arti is the star attraction of the site that gathers thousands of devotees enchanting the spiritual prayers.

Useful Tip: If you want to score a nice place for the show and seeking to avoid the crowds then reach the ghat at least 2 hours before.

Assi Ghat

Feeling a bit exhausted from traveling? Stroll around the magnificent Assi Ghat at sunrise, when you can see many people enjoying doing morning meditation, accompanied by soul-soothing music every morning. Travelers can enjoy Ganga Arti ceremony at Assi Ghat also which is however smaller yet more intimate than the one that is organized at Dasaswamedh Ghat.

Shiva Lingam (the phallic representation of the Supreme deity of Hindus) beneath a spiritual fig tree happens to be the star attraction of this site.

Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Visiting Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi is believed to be one of the most acclaimed and cherished dreams of almost each Hindu devout. The devotees never fail to travel for hundreds of kilometers to do the philosophy of Lord Shiva and to seek his blessing for lifelong prosperity and wealth. The pilgrimage is also called as “The Golden Temple” for its striking golden spire, plated with 800 kg of pure gold.

The distinctive design of the temple has inspired the architecture of many other temples built across the nation. You are not allowed to carry any of the electronic gadgets inside the temple due to the security purpose and the travelers have to submit their belongings in a rentable locker.

Useful Tip: Try avoiding visit the temple on Hindu holidays or else you might end up standing in a queue and waiting for your turn for up to 2 full days.

Banaras Hindu University

Established in 1916, Banaras Hindu University is a well-respected government education institution in which more than 25,000 students take admission and complete their higher studies. Spread over a huge area of land which is around 1300 acres makes it one of the largest residential universities in Asia.

On entering the campus you also get to see New Vishwanath Temple that has finally completed its decades-old construction in 1966. This 77-meter-high temple happens to be one of the tallest pilgrimages in India that draws tourists in a good number.

There are several other famous and wonderful places to discover in and around the city on your Varanasi tour and we will compile the other travel sites in next posts. Hence, if you like this post and excited to read a few other articles related to you travel plans then do follow us and share this post with your loved ones. Do write your valuable suggestion in the comment box below.

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Varanasi or Banaras or Kashi, is one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world whose prominence in Hindu mythology is virtually unrevealed. Hindus believe that visiting the spiritual land of Varanasi would let you attain moksha or salvation and also liberation from the cycle of life and death. The city has been quite famous for Hindu renaissance, culture, knowledge, Indian arts and crafts, and most importantly devotion to gods.

This spiritual capital of India is decked on the shores of River Ganges which is believed to hold the power to cleanse the committed sins and the wrongdoings of every mortal. The city is nicely associated with the promotion of Sanskrit, Yoga, spiritualism, mysticism, and Hindi language, mother tongue of Indians. Kashi or Varanasi has been an ultimate pilgrimage site for Hindus for centuries.

Cultural Significance and Heritage of Varanasi

The city is believed to be the birthplace of three major religions of India i.e. Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. Varanasi, abruptly known as the cultural capital of India has offered a perfect platform for several cultural activities to flourish. Ustad Bismillah Khan, popular Shehnai player, Ravi Shankar, internationally renowned Sitar maestro, and many other exponents of music and dance have come from Kashi or Banaras and are believed to have lived major part of their lives.

The city rich in Heritage

The travelers get astonished to see that this spiritual city of the nation is also a Museum architectural designs that represents the evolving patterns and movements of arts and crafts and other things in course of history. The museum is bestowed with several rich and original varieties of sculptures, paintings, and the exceptionally rich treasures of folk art. The city is believed to have produced master craftsmen during the ages.

Varanasi has earned unconditional popularity for its Silk Sarees, textiles, ornaments, toys, metal work, wood and clay work, fibre and leaf crafts too.

History of Varanasi

There is no proven evidence of the history of this oldest city on earth and Bhanu Shankar Mehta, who has spend almost 80 years of his life in Varanasi and has been giving lectures on its history, says that the history of this city is not less than a puzzle that needs to be solved by a committee of well-known and educated scholars. He also adds “all the historical, mythological, and proto historical tales together” can give a proper idea about this.

P.N. Singh, a well-known History lecturer at Banaras Hindu University claims “Varanasi is quite significant from an archaeological perspective”. It is believed that the ancient remnants are found at the Rajghat plateau established in the northeastern part of the city. Here, the archaeologists excavated broken masonry from as late as 1500 AD and the potteries dating back to 1000 BC. This all suggests that the city has been continuously inhabited for almost 2500 years.

Early History of Varanasi

The great historians have now evidenced that the Aryans were the first who settled themselves in the Ganges Valley and later by the second millennium BC, the city became the nucleus of Aryan philosophy and religion. The destination also evolved nicely as an industrial and commercial centre pretty popular for its silk products, muslin, ivory works, sculptures, and perfumery.

During the 6th century BC, Benaras became the capital of Kashi and this is the same period when Lord Buddha delivered his very first sermon at Sarnath which is only 10 km away from Varanasi. Being a renowned centre of religious, cultural, educational, and artistic activities, the city attracted huge pilgrims from all around the world. Chinese traveler Hsuan Tsang was one of the most known personalities who visited the country around 635 AD.

Varanasi under Muslim Control

The city faced a hugely destructive phase from 1194 to the next three centuries as it came under the rule of Muslim Rulers. During this period, several temples were plundered and destroyed and the scholars were brutally tortured and forced to leave the city. Later in the 16th century, the tolerant emperor, Akbar sat on the Mughal throne and spread his kingdom all over the city.

It was the time when certain religious sites were restored but unfortunately all of them were again destroyed when Aurangzeb sat on the throne in the 17th century.

Modern History

During the 18th century, the city regained its glory and impeccable charm and in 1910, British declared it as an independent kingdom with Ramnagar as its capital city. Later in 1947, after the independence of India, the city became a part of Uttar Pradesh and took Uttar Pradesh tourism a notch higher.

Mythological significance of the city

The legend of this spiritual city of India dates back to almost 10,000 years to a few old holy epics of Hinduism including the Mahabharata, the Puranas, and the Vedas. As per these epics, the city is believed to be the site of Lord Shiva who visited here with Goddess Parvati (his wife) at the beginning of the era. The legends also state that it could be the battlefield where Lord Krishna put fire to a duplicate but imposter himself.

It also happens to be the same place where Lord Rama performed a deep meditation after killing the demon Ravana. In simple words, we can conclude that Varanasi is an encyclopedia itself that has got around 100 dimensions and it’s never easy to cover them even in a book.

How Varanasi got its name?

Sanctified in religious scriptures and glorified in Hindu mythology, the city has attracted huge influx of devotees, worshippers, and pilgrims from several years. As per the “Vamana Purana”, the Assi and Varuna rivers were originated from the body of the primordial being at the starting of the era. Varanasi, the current name of the city has been originated with the two magnificent tributaries of River Ganga namely Assi and Varuna.

The area of land lying between them was referred as “Varanasi”, the holiest of the pilgrimages in the country.

Different names associated with the city

India is one of those countries where majority of the cities are called by at least two names but Varanasi has over a hundred names. The locals still refer this city as Banaras perhaps after the king Benar and according to the Jataka Tales, a collection of Buddhist tales, refer the city as Jitwari, the place perfect for a successful business. It is also called as Molini referring lotus garden city or Pushpavati, the city adorned with colorful flowers or flower garden city.

Achievements of Varanasi

• Being blessed with several small and huge temples, Varanasi attracted Annie Besant and she selected the place as home or centre for her “Theosophical society” and the sanctity and serenity of this city compelled Pandit Mohan Malviya to establish Benaras Hindu University, the largest university of the Asian continent.
• Ayurveda, the basis of several modern medical sciences like Plastic surgery, calculus, and cataract operations is believed to have been originated in Varanasi only.
• The preceptor of Yoga and Ayurveda, the legend, Maharshi Patanjali was also associated with this holy city in UP.
• The city doesn’t require any sort of introduction in terms of its popularity for its trade and commerce especially for the gold and silver brocades and the finest skills of arts and crafts since the early days.

The Unseen Benaras

However, Varanasi is known for its religious sites like Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Dashashwamedh Ghat, Assi Ghat, etc. but there are several other spots established in the city that are less explored. So, on your next trip to Varanasi do not forget to discover the spots that are associated with the freedom struggles and martyrs. Plan well and get yourself ready to know about the untold history of Ghazipur, Sarnath, Bhadohi (Carpet town), Kashiraj, and also experience the Panorama of Banaras that describes the real identity of Varanasi.

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One of the most pious cities in the country, Varanasi is nestled beautifully on the banks of River Ganga. This revered city in Uttar Pradesh exhibits its eccentric traits through unmatched traditions, rituals, and the culture. Nestled on the northern belt of India, Varanasi witnesses a huge influx of tourists thronging from different corners of the globe. However, this northern city witnesses the extreme climatic conditions marked by cold winters and very hot summers.

Even though it gets too crowded during the peak season yet the most recommended time to discover the wonders of this spiritual city is with the onset of winter months.

Varanasi In Summer – April Till June

Summer in Varanasi is dry, humid, and sunny with the temperature ranging between 32 and 46 degree Celsius. Travelers normally avoid planning their trip to Varanasi in the summer months i.e. between April and June. May and June considered to be the hottest months of the year and “loo”, the hot dry winds blow across the area that makes it pretty difficult to complete the city sightseeing tour.

Locals and tourists prefer taking holy bath in River Ganga and visiting the ancient temples during this season only. There is a very old tradition followed by Hindus in the city that taking bath in this divine river washes all your committed sins and blesses you with positivity and goodness.

Walking along the ghats especially the Panchganga Ghat (holy confluence of five invisible rivers) at dusk fills your heart and soul with refreshing aura and positivity.

Varanasi In Monsoon – July, August, And September

The temperature of the city starts falling down with the onset of monsoon months and this is the time when the real beauty of the city gets drenched out amazingly. It is quite unpleasing and difficult to travel around the city in the monsoon months but the travelers are very much attracted with the blossoming charm and freshness of the city.

Despite receiving regular showers during these months, the climate is quite humid as well. Photogenic travelers find this divine land at the prime time during monsoon season.

Varanasi In Winter – November Till March

Those who are excited to discover the star attractions of this spiritual capital of India shall plan their trip during the winter months i.e. between November and March. However, one cannot see snowfall in the city and wind from the Himalayan ranges adds more coldness to the region. One can discover the spiritual charm and the best of the city during these months for sure.

The chain of temples seated on the shores of the river amidst massive fog is a great site to experience and capture some amazing moments for your travel frames.

Best Time to Visit Varanasi

October to March is the most recommended and preferred time to plan your Varanasi tour but if you don’t mind hot and humid climate then you can also think of April and May to enjoy several religious activities and celebrations.

Fairs and Festivals in Varanasi

Sankat Mochan Music Festival

Varanasi celebrates Sankat Mochan Music Festival every year on the auspicious occasion of Hanuman Jayanti. This celebration continues for four nights where you can enjoy listening to some really melodious and soul soothing music for the whole night. The festival attracts several maestros of Indian Classical Dance and Music such as Pandit Jasraj and Birju Maharaj.

Ramnagar Ramlila

Ramlila is a traditionally performed set of plays that represents the entire journey of Lord Ram’s Journey as stated in the Ramayana, the holy epic. It is believed that this 200-year-old traditional play inhibited under the patronage of the Royal House of Banaras. Performed on a huge scale, Ramlila attracts thousands of people from all around the country and this number increases year after year.

However, this traditional play performance happens to continue for ten days but in Ramnagar, this stretches for almost a month. The celebration starts on the very first day of Navratri and ends with Dussehra, an auspicious occasion that celebrates the victory of good over evil.

Ganga Mahotsav

One of the most happening occasions to represent the cultural heritage of the Gangetic plains and those who are excited to know more about the tradition, culture, and heritage of Varanasi, also called as Kashi. The celebration of this festival is organized by the Mahotsav Samiti of the Department of Tourism of UP government.

This five-day long festival continues for five days where locals get to enjoy the traditional dance and music shows offering them a soulful experience the goodness of which is difficult to discover. The celebration commences in Kartik month on the grand occasion of Prabodhini Ekadashi. People can enjoy participating in this occasion at several ghats of the city to experience the cultural heritage of the city.

People from every religion come from all across the country and foreign countries to witness the charm and glory of this spiritual capital of India.

Things to Do in Varanasi

The city offers you a vast array of activities including evening Ganga Arti ceremony at the ghats, taking a boat ride on River Ganges, lip-smacking street foods, and many more.

• Boat Ride: One of the must not miss out activities to do in Varanasi, taking a boat ride on the holiest river refreshes your soul and mind with positive aura. Witnessing the mesmerizing views of sunrise and sunset makes your trip more memorable.
• Holy dip in River Ganga: Hindus believe that taking dip in the river washes their sins or any wrongdoings and cleanse your soul spiritually. The city is home to almost 84 ghats bestowed with staircases leading you to the river where people from all around the nation come to take dip.
• Visiting Temples: More than 2000 temples are established in the city and this makes it one of the most sought religious destinations in India. There are endless number of interesting and surprising tales associated with the construction of these structures where devotees visit to offer prayers to the almighty and seek the blessings.
• Treating taste buds with street foods: Varanasi is pretty much popular for its traditional and simple street foods that include Pani Puri, Aloo Chaat, Bhel Puri, Bhang Lassi, and more such items. Your holiday in Varanasi is never ever complete if you don’t try these street foods by sitting along the ghats and enjoying the spellbinding views of sunrise and sunset.
• Explore Banaras Silk Emporium: Besides being so popular for its ancient temples and ghats, the city is globally famous for its silk products especially Varanasi Silk Sarees. You will be surprised to see that not only Indians are fond of these sarees but foreigners are found haggling for their silk product inside the emporium and even at the street side shops.

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