soulofkashi

[soulofkashi]

Varanasi, located in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh, is one of the oldest and most prominent cities in India. Also known as Banaras or Kashi, it is a city that is steeped in culture, history, and tradition. Varanasi has always been an important cultural center for Hindus as well as one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Here are some famous places and things to see and do in Varanasi.

👉 1. Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most famous temples in India, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is located on the banks of the river Ganges and is believed to be one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. The temple attracts a large number of tourists and devotees from all around the world. If you want to witness the Aarti of Kashi Vishwanath temple, you must make prior reservations, as the temple is always crowded.

👉 2. Dashashwamedh Ghat

Dashashwamedh Ghat is one of the most popular ghats in Varanasi. It is associated with the legend of Lord Brahma who created the Dashashwamedh Yajna at this ghat. It is also the main ghat for performing the Ganga Aarti or the River worship, which takes place every evening.

👉 3. Sarnath

Sarnath is one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in India. This is the place where Gautama Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. Sarnath is located about 10 km from Varanasi and houses several stupas, temples, and monasteries.

👉 4. Banaras Hindu University

Banaras Hindu University is one of the most prestigious universities in India. It was founded by Madan Mohan Malviya in 1916 and is spread over an area of 1,300 acres. The university is known for its beautiful architecture and lush green campus. The Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum on the campus has a large collection of objects from different periods of Indian history.

👉 5. Ramnagar Fort

Ramnagar Fort is located on the eastern bank of the river Ganges, opposite to the city of Varanasi. The fort was built in the 18th century by Kashi Naresh Raja Balwant Singh. The fort houses a museum that showcases the royal collection of the Maharaja of Benaras, including vintage cars, swords, and old guns.

👉 6. Benaras Hindu University Museum

Benaras Hindu University Museum, established in 1917, is one of the oldest museums in Uttar Pradesh. It is located inside the Bharat Kala Bhavan on the BHU campus. The museum has a large collection of paintings, sculptures, and textiles from different parts of India. The museum also holds regular workshops and lectures on various aspects of Indian art and culture.

👉 7. Assi Ghat

Assi Ghat is located at the confluence of the river Ganges and the river Assi. It is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, especially during the morning hours. The ghat is known for its beautiful sunrise views and the local life that unfolds here.

👉 8. Silk weaving

Varanasi is famous for its silk weaving industry. The Banarasi silk saree is known for its exquisite designs and craftsmanship. The city has several silk weaving centers where you can witness the weaving process and even buy some silk sarees as souvenirs.

In conclusion, Varanasi is a city that is brimming with history, culture, and spirituality. From ancient temples and ghats to traditional silk weaving, this city has something to offer everyone. Whether you plan to visit the city for a day or a few days, these famous places and things to do in Varanasi are worth exploring.

[soulofkashi]

Varanasi, also known as Banaras or Kashi, is considered one of the holiest cities in India. It is believed that visiting Varanasi and taking a dip in the river Ganges can purify one's soul and lead to salvation. Devotees from all across the country come to Varanasi to seek blessings from divine powers and to immerse themselves in spirituality.

Devotees are an integral part of Varanasi's culture and belief system. Many people believe that dedicating oneself entirely to God, serving others, and leading a life of piety can lead to self-realization, inner peace, and ultimate salvation. The city is filled with temples, ashrams, ghats, and monasteries where devotees practice their faith.

The most important festival for devotees in Varanasi is Mahashivratri when Lord Shiva is worshipped with great fervor. Apart from that, festivals like Holi, Diwali, Dussehra are also celebrated with great enthusiasm by devotees.

The daily routine for many devotees includes waking up early in the morning, bathing in the holy river Ganges or any other water body near their dwelling places along with their daily prayers or recitation of mantras. Many also participate in aarti ceremonies at dawn or dusk along the ghats of the river Ganges.

Apart from spiritual practices during daytime hours, some devotees spend nights on various ghats performing agni pujas (worship of fire) or chanting mantras. Such practices help individuals develop deep connections with their gods while allowing them to immerse themselves completely into spirituality.

Varanasi has always been home for many people who have given up worldly pleasures to walk on the path of devotion towards divine powers. They take temporary shelter near famous temples or ashrams where they can follow their daily spiritual routine without any hindrance.

In conclusion, whether it is for a short visit or to establish a permanent connection with divine powers, devotees flock to Varanasi with an aspiration in their hearts and dedication in their spirits.