Varanasi is a city of timeless spiritual bliss and historical relics, and it holds the dubious distinction of being the oldest continuously inhabited city in the world. The city is characterized by a maze of winding streets lined with houses, shops, and Ghats, as well as by its many holy sites, historical landmarks, and ancient temples. Varanasi is among the oldest cities of the world and is also known as the city of Lord Shiva. The city has been a great centre of attraction for mostly Hindu devotees from all over India. The major attraction of the city is the Shri Kashi Vishwanath temple which is a major temple in the Hindu culture.
Those who visit Varanasi can experience the essence of a simple, ritualistic way of life in addition to its spiritual allure. From a religious perspective, it is an exceptional illustration of ‘Unity in diversity,’ and its remarkable multi-faith makeup will astound you. As the sun sets over the Ganges, the ethereal bushfire of the evening aarti is a sight to behold. The Ganges which is another world know holy river of the Hindus and flows through this city to make it even more pure and divine.
How To Reach Varanasi by flight or train? Click Here To Book
You can easily reach Varanasi by train as it is a major city of India and is connected to almost every other major city in India. The cost of reaching Varanasi by train is quite cheap. If you are planning to travel by bus, it is only recommended if you are coming from a nearby city.
If you are planning to reach Varanasi by flight, The Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport serves the city of Varanasi and is only 18 kilometers away from the city center. They provide a direct connection between Varanasi and other cities in India such as Agra, Bhubaneshwar, Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Goa, and Thiruvananthapuram, as well as Bengaluru and Hyderabad.
The Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport, which is also known as the Babatpur Airport or the Varanasi Airport, is the airport that is located the closest to the city of Varanasi. It is situated just 18 kilometers away from the city center. Because of the dense fog that often surrounds the city during the winter, there is a possibility that last-minute flight cancellations or delays will occur.
The city of Varanasi does not have any local buses that can be used to travel around the city; however, there are state tourism buses that connect various locations in the interior.
Where to stay in Varanasi? Book Your Hotel
Nearly all of the city’s hotels are within walking distance of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, which is widely considered to be the holiest shrine dedicated to Shiva. In addition, each hotel either has a large parking area in the basement or in the front of the building. Parking is an important consideration to make if you plan to travel to Varanasi by road and bring your own vehicle with you. Hotels close to ghats typically have rooms that are individually decorated to reflect the culture of each of India’s states. The rooms each showcase a different Indian culture.
Top places you cannot miss in Varanasi
Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple Book Your Bus From Here
One of the most well-known destinations for tourists in Varanasi is the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, which is a shrine that honors Lord Shiva. Locals and visitors alike have a strong faith in the magical energies that emanate from the temple. The Jyotirlinga, which is also known as Vishwanath, can be found within the temple. Incredible architecture can be found throughout the Shri Kashi Vishwanath temple. The blessings of Lord Shiva are represented in the form of Prasad, which is given to pilgrims.
Nehru Park
Nehru Park is one of the best tourist places in Varanasi and is an excellent choice if you are looking for some leisure time. The park is interesting because it has a variety of play areas for children, including a barbecue area and beautifully covered shelters. It is the perfect place to go if you want to learn about the culture of the people who live in Varanasi, engage in conversation with them, and uncover mysteries through their lives.
Sarnath Buddhist Temple
A visit to the Sarnath Temple in Varanasi is highly recommended for anyone interested in developing a more profound appreciation for Buddhism. It is also believed to have been the location of Gautama Buddha’s very first sermon, which was delivered there. Buddhism has been spreading throughout Sarnath as a result of the city’s prosperous merchants who are based in Varanasi. In addition, you will be able to catch a glimpse of some archaeological ruins as well as the construction of the Ashoka Pillar.
Dasaswamedh Ghat
Dashashwamedh is known for being one of the oldest and most notable ghats in all of Varanasi. This ghat is well-known for hosting Agni Puja, an event that brings together a large number of locals as well as tourists from all over the world. Priests are the ones who are in charge of performing such rites. Sandhya Aarti is also one of the most popular attractions, as you can listen to ancient texts while taking in the solemn atmosphere all around you. It is without a doubt one of the most divine tourist destinations in all of Varanasi.
Dhamek Stupa
The Dhamek Stupa is widely regarded as one of the cities of Varanasi’s top attractions for visitors. This is primarily because it was the location of the first discourse that the Buddha gave to his five followers after he attained enlightenment in Bodh Gaya. This gives the site a significant amount of age. The Stupa takes the form of a cylinder and is built out of red bricks as well as stone. At this significant Buddhist center, tourists from all over the world come in droves to experience the local culture and learn about Buddhism
What are the famous food of Varanasi?
Kachori Sabzi
The most common dish eaten for breakfast all over the city of Varanasi is called Kachori Sabzi. In their most basic form, kachoris are puris filled with lentils and are typically served with a flavorful gravy made of potatoes. The kachoris are deep-fried in front of your very eyes and are served sizzling hot.
Tamatar Chaat
You have a perfect Tamatar Chaat if it is made with tomatoes, potatoes, and the appropriate amount of spices and hing (asafetida). Additionally, it should be garnished with the appropriate amount of sweet chutney, dhaniya leaves, and a dollop of desi ghee. It is said that Kashi Chat Bhandar serves the most delicious version of the Tamatar Chaat. This delectable treat can also be purchased from several stalls that are located along the side of Lahurabir Road.
Chooda Matar
Another of our favorite foods to eat on the street in Varanasi is called Chooda Matar. In reality, this is Poha, but with a Varanasi spin on it. After being dipped in Desi Ghee, the rice is subsequently stir-fried with leafy peas and a variety of different spices. This dish is perfect for a late night snack because it is quite filling and can be eaten quickly.
Malai Toast
Malai Toast is also special to Varanasi. If you don’t feel like having kachori sabzi for breakfast, you could always give the Malai Toast or the Safed Makkhan toast a shot instead. In this establishment, thick local bread is browned in an oven heated with coals, and after that, either white butter or the standard yellow butter is spread on it in copious amounts, depending on which flavor you prefer. You could also sprinkle the toast with some sugar or season it with a dash of salt and pepper
Baati Chokha
Another one of Varanasi’s delicious street foods, this one is a crowd favorite. This dish can be purchased from several stalls that are located along the street. Baati is a type of bread that is common in India, and choka is a combination of mashed potatoes, tomatoes, and baked brinjals that is seasoned with a variety of different spices. In Varanasi, you can purchase Baati Chokha at both the makeshift stalls that line the streets and the upscale restaurants.
Rabri
Rabri is one more sweet dish that you will absolutely adore, and Varanasi is home to some of the best-made versions of Rabri in the world. Previously, my favorite Rabri was from the restaurant in Pushkar. One that can be considered a close second is the one in Varanasi. You can purchase Rabri at any of Varanasi’s well-known establishments that sell sweets. When accompanied by jalebis cooked in Desi Ghee, the flavor of rabi is elevated to a new level.
What is the best time to travel Banaras?
The monsoon season officially ends in October, which also ushers in the start of winter. During this period, there are a lot of religious fairs and festivals that take place. Even though it is still a pleasant temperature, you should make sure to bring plenty of warm clothing with them when they go to Varanasi at this time of year. The beginning of spring is in February and March when the temperature is typically quite pleasant. During these months, it is possible, without a doubt, to discover the spiritual charm and the best of Varanasi.
How much will a trip to Varanasi cost?
If you are planning a trip to Varanasi, a maximum of just two to three days is enough to explore the entire city. Varanasi is an old city and thus most the shops and hotels here are cheaper. Thus when visiting Varanasi, you can estimate your budget to Rs 2000 per person for the entire trip. This cost excludes your ticket bills which depends on the method you choose to reach Varanasi.
Along with this, some extra cost can be boating, cruise and other leisure spends that are not included in the cost above.
Conclusion
The holy city of Varanasi awaits your visit if you have made the necessary travel arrangements, and we hope that the information provided here will be useful. The sights and sounds here will assault your senses, and not always in a good way. Prepare yourself accordingly. Happy Journey!
