This time, I made a trip to Varanasi in May, 2014. I went to Varanasi to attend a friend’s wedding. I had planned for two more days so that I could explore the city. Our group consisted of three boys including Sanjay and Rohit. Sanjay is a native of Banaras and we stayed at his place.
On the morning of May 10th, we were at the Varanasi Railway station. Varanasi station looks like a temple. Banaras was very crowded at that time due to elections; there were many rallies going on from different parties. Sanjay hired an auto-rickshaw and then we left for home. Mid way, Sanjay took Jalebi, Kachori and sabzi (जलेबी, कचौड़ी और सब्जी) for the morning breakfast. These are famous morning breakfast items in Banaras.
After breakfast, we decided to visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Since temple is open until noon, so we left the house at 10:00 am. Mobile and camera are not allowed in temple due to security reasons. Therefore we only captured photo of the main gate. Street from gate to temple is called “Vishwanath Gali”. Vishwanath gali has many shops that sale pooja stuff and sweets. Near the temple, I also met a friend called Hari.
Main Gate of Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most famous temples in Varanasi. It is also known as the Golden temple dedicated to the Lord Shiva. This temple is having great religious importance to the Hindus because this temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of lord Shiva and this one is 12th. There are various small temples such as the Kaalbhairav, Avimukteshwara, Vishnu, Vinayaka and Virupaksh Gauri are located in the main campus of the temple.
“विश्वनाथ गली में प्रवेश करते ही पूरा माहोल भक्तिमय हो गया था चारो तरफ हर हर महादेव नाम का जयगोश ही सुनाई दे रहा था। मंदिर में प्रवेश के बाद हम महादेव के दर्शन के लिए लालायित थे । मुख्य मंदिर के बगल में एक बहुत बड़ा सा घंटा लगा है, जो की अदभुत प्रतीत हो रहा था । मुख्य मंदिर के चारो ओर अन्य देवी, देवताओ के मंदिर है । मन तो कर रहा था वही बैठ कर भगवान की भक्ति में लीन हो जाऊ लेकिन सुरक्षा कारणों से ऐसा संभव न था । अन्त में यही कहना चाहुँगा कि बम-बम बोल रहा था काशी ।”
After main temple and Jyotirlinga visit, we went to the Wisdom Well and then also visited all temples inside the Vishwanath temple premises. We also purchased a kurta having Om Namah Shivaya printed on it. We returned to home and then took lunch.
On the evening of May 10th, we were ready to attend Brijesh’s marriage in Chandauli. Anurag, Bharat and Nitesh were with us at the wedding. On the way to Chandauli, we had kulhar tea (कुल्हड़ वाली चाय). Taste of tea was great, so we had another one. In marriage, we enjoyed Nautanki dance among other programs. We returned to home in the night.
On the morning of May 11th 2014 at 9:00 o’clock, we left the house and visited Durga Kund Temple, Tulsi Manas Temple, Marvadi Temple, Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple and Kashi Vishwanath Temple in BHU campus. Walls of the Durga Kund temple are painted with dark red in color. Marwadi temple is new and small, but has good structure. Sweet and basil’s leaf (लड्डू और तुसली का पत्ता) is used for Prasad in Sankat Mochan Temple; the mixer of both was giving good taste too. Banarasi paan is famous all over India, so we didn’t forget to eat Banarasi sweet Paan.
BHU entry gate
Kashi Vishwanath temple, BHU campus
BHU campus is very big and green. Kashi Vishwanath Temple in BHU campus also is a grand temple and entire campus looks like a temple. One interesting fact about BHU campus is that only red and yellow color has been used to paint wall of university.
“काशी हिन्दू विश्वविद्यालय का प्रवेश द्धार किसी मंदिर के प्रवेश द्धार की तरफ लग रहा था । पूरा विश्वविद्यालय भी किसी विशालकाय मंदिर की तरफ लग रहा था । मदिर ही तो था ज्ञान का मदिर, माँ सरस्वती का मदिर ।”
After visiting some temples in the city, we moved towards Ram Nagar fort. Our vehicle crossed the Ganga River by wooden bridge. Ram Nagar fort’s museum has a collection of British time’s car, animal’s heads and weapon. Collection of cars, carts and Paalki is the best part of museum. Ram Nagar Fort is adjacent to Ganga River, so you can see a beautiful landscape of Ganga River from fort.
Ramnagar fort
I and Sanjay in Ramnagar fort
Ganga View from fort
Our next destination Sarnath is about 10 km from Ramnagar. On the way to Sarnath, we saw Sher Shah Suri Makbara. We were at Sarnath around 1 pm and we all were hungry. So, we first ate Dosha and drank Cold Drink in Vaishali restaurant.
We hired a guide there, guide told us that Sarnath has five main point; Ashoka Stupa, Main Temple campus, Japanese Temple, Sachi Stupa and God Budha statue. Ashoka Stupa ruins and Bodhi Tree inside main temple campus are famous and most important place in Sarnath. Main temple is designed in Japanese temple architecture and walls inside the temple have been painted related to God Budha life. We visited all points but we did not explore much due to very hot day.
“भगवान बुद्ध की विशालकाय मूर्ति, मंदिर के दीवारो पर चित्रित उनकी जीवनी, बोधिवृक्ष के नीचे पाँच मित्रों के साथ बनी उनकी मूर्ति उस समय का अनुभव कराती है ।”
Main temple, Sarnath
Japanese Temple Sarnath
Sanchi Stupa Sarnath
We returned to home around 3:30 pm and then we all took rest for 2-3 hour after lunch. On the evening around 6:30 pm, we were ready for most famous event Ganga Aarti. So, we moved towards Dashashwamedh Gath to become the part of that event; Ganga Aarti was amazing moment. You must involve in that if you are for Varanasi visit.
“सात संत सफ़ेद रेशमी पोशाक में हाथ में बड़ा सा आरती का दीया लिए हुए गंगा माँ की आरती कर रहे थे । दिये से निकलने वाले लौ का प्रतिबिम्ब पानी में दिख रहा था, अदभुत नज़ारा ही था । ढोल, डमरू, नगाड़ा और लोगों के हर-हर गंगे, हर-हर महादेव महादेव की आवाज से पूरा माहोल भक्तिमय और संगीतमय हो गया था । हम लोग भी माँ गंगा की भक्ति में पूरी तरफ से लीन हो गए थे ।”
Ganga Arti at Dashashwamedh Gath
Ganga Ghat
Ganga Ghat in Banaras
After completing Aarti, we decided for boating in Ganga River. So, we hired a personal boat instead of sharing boat. Boating in the night was superb experience; boatman covered all Ghats and also told some story related to each Ghat.
Boating in Ganga River
We left the Ghat around 9:00 pm and went to Thandai (ठंडाई) Shop. We ordered Thandai with light Bhang (भांग). After drinking Thandai, we bought Banaras famous sweet called Khirmohan (खिरमोहन) and Chamcham (चमचम). Sunday evening was full of fun and memorable day for us.
Next day, May 12th 2014 was Election Day in Varanasi, so we took rest on Monday and left the Varanasi by evening train. This time we missed lot of things like Banarasi lemon tea, Kaal Bhairav Temple, Museum in Sarnath, morning dip in Ganga and some other temples. This is all about my experience in Varanasi.
In the end, I want to say, Banaras is a lovely city and has stuck to my heart. Combo of Banaras and Sarnath is a perfect tourist destination. You will feel different experience in Varanasi visit.
Varanasi is my favorite religious destination. Your post was interesting and snaps were attaractive. Keep sharing.
Thanks.
Thanks Mukesh
Hi Vivek,
I visited KASHI twice (almost 10 years back).
Nice post and beautiful pictures refreshed my memories.
Thanks for sharing the experiences.
Thanks Munesh
So Vivek! you are travelling quite well. Very good.
Varanasi is among the place where I would like to go again and again. Yes, you have missed a lot. Hope you will see all those in your next visit.
So where are you going in this summer? Travelling is good, travelling is life. Here is some words from a famous hindi Kishore Kumar Song: -) :-)
Ek Raasta Hai Zindagi, Jo Tham Gaye To Kuchh Nahin
Thanks
Thanks Anupam, Yes I want to visit major tourist places in India.
I am in Gurgaon and there is too hot, so I am planning to go any hill station nearby Delhi. Please suggest any good place for maximum of 2-4 days. What about Lansdowne?
Ek Raasta Hai Zindagi” is really a good and motivational song. Galib also said very well
“Sair kar duniya ki galib, yeh zindagani phir kahan
zingagani gar rahi tou , naujawani phir kaha..”
And for some reasons, most of us happen to be in Benares during summers. This elections, Benares was quite hot during Elections with our current PM fighting from there.
Great log Vivek. Here’s a trivia which we discovered when we visited the new Vishwanath Temple, in BHU campus. The new temple is one of the tallest temple towers and is > 250 feet and even though it is the *new* temple, it is there for about 50 years. :-) And yes just like a lot of other temples in this part of India, this one is also from the house of Birlas.
Thanks Nandan for your interesting facts.
Vivek, After reading your personal Post and wedding in Varanasi, to me it seems I have been there with you. Mined you I have never visited the place ,Hope to visit once the GANGA gets cleaned by the new government. Loved your pictures.
I have attended the AARTI only at Rishikesh and Haridwar(number of times–almost once year) and I think Haridwar AARTI is heavenly.
Good luck for future ghummakaroing.
Thanks Jatinder,
Everyone having hope from new Government, specially for Varanasi.
informative narration. thanku liked ur story
नमस्कार श्रीमान जी मैंने एक हिंदी ट्रेवल गाइड ब्लॉग शुरू किया hai कभी आपको मौका मिले तो मेरे ब्लॉग पर जरूर विजिट करें और अपने अनुभव के आधार पर मुझे कुछ सुझाव दे
धन्यवाद |
ब्लॉग – सफर जानकारी
Very informative content.
Varanasi has all the flavors of old times and new age.
You can find ancient way of people worshipping and traditional way of dealing things specially around ganga.
And new age things like
Cruze on river, new NAMO ghat, new convection center Rudrach etc.
Varanasi is a magical feeling which one can only feel when he or she is in varanasi.
Thanks for posting very detailed information on Varanasi.
I too visited banaras recently and yes it’s truly a lovely city which gets stuck in your heart.
Valuable Sharing Keep it up.
Excellent blog information, that’s great time to visit Varanasi, or Benares, is like stepping into the heart of India’s spiritual essence. The city’s ancient ghats, vibrant street life, and mesmerizing Ganga Aarti offer a unique blend of tranquility and vitality. Each moment spent here feels like a journey through time, connecting with centuries of history and culture.
Excellent informative blog, thanks for sharing the best travel experiences of Benares truly brings the city to life! The blend of spirituality and history you’ve captured makes me want to visit Varanasi even more.
Its very unique information thanks for sharing the best travel blog story.
A visit to Benares (also known as Varanasi), one of the oldest living cities in the world, is a profound spiritual and cultural experience. Located on the banks of the sacred River Ganges in Uttar Pradesh, India, Varanasi holds immense religious significance for Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains. It is considered the city of Lord Shiva, and many come here seeking salvation, believing that dying in Varanasi frees one from the cycle of rebirth.
Key Highlights of a Visit to Varanasi:
Ghats of Varanasi:
Dashashwamedh Ghat: One of the most prominent and lively ghats, it’s famous for the evening Ganga Aarti, where priests perform rituals to honor the river and the gods. The synchronized chants, lamps, and the crowd’s devotion make this an awe-inspiring experience.
Manikarnika Ghat: This is a cremation ghat where Hindus believe the soul attains moksha (liberation). Witnessing the funeral rites here is a humbling reminder of life’s transient nature.
Assi Ghat: A more peaceful ghat, ideal for morning boat rides and observing local life. It’s also a hub for travelers and spiritual seekers.
Kashi Vishwanath Temple:
One of the twelve Jyotirlingas, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple’s sacred status draws millions of devotees every year. Visitors offer prayers, bathe in the Ganges, and seek blessings for peace and prosperity.
The temple’s proximity to the ghats makes it an important stop for pilgrims, and its spiritual ambiance is palpable.
Boat Ride on the Ganges:
A boat ride on the Ganges at dawn is an unforgettable experience. The rising sun illuminates the ghats, revealing people bathing, praying, and performing rituals. The serenity of the river and the sights of ancient temples and steps leading to the water create a peaceful atmosphere.
During the evening, the river takes on a different charm, with floating diyas (lamps) lighting up the water as part of the Ganga Aarti.
Sarnath:
Located a short distance from Varanasi, Sarnath is where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. The site is home to the Dhamek Stupa, the ruins of ancient monasteries, and the Sarnath Archaeological Museum, which houses the Lion Capital of Ashoka, India’s national emblem.
Local Culture and Life:
Varanasi’s streets are a vibrant mix of temples, bustling bazaars, and narrow alleys filled with the scent of incense, flowers, and street food. You’ll encounter sadhus (holy men), pilgrims, and locals going about their daily rituals.
The city is famous for its Banarasi silk saris, intricate handicrafts, and brassware, which you can explore in the local markets.
Culinary Delights:
Varanasi offers a variety of traditional delicacies like kachaudi sabzi, tamatar chaat, and jalebi. Don’t miss out on the famous Banarasi paan, a betel leaf snack filled with aromatic ingredients.
The city’s street food scene is also thriving, with authentic sweets and snacks that reflect the rich culinary heritage of Varanasi.
Spiritual Significance:
Varanasi is often referred to as Kashi, the city of light. It is believed that the river Ganges has the power to wash away sins, and people flock here for rituals of life and death. Many come to perform shradh (ancestral rituals) for departed souls.
The city is also home to ashrams and centers for spiritual learning, where visitors can participate in yoga, meditation, and religious discourses.
Conclusion:
A visit to Varanasi is not just a trip but a transformative journey into India’s spiritual heart. The city’s timeless appeal lies in its blend of ancient traditions, sacred spaces, and daily rituals that have continued for millennia. Whether you’re seeking spiritual solace, cultural immersion, or a glimpse into the sacred rituals of life and death, Varanasi offers an unparalleled experience.
Reading about your visit to Benares/Varanasi was an absolute delight! The way you captured the spiritual ambiance, the vibrancy of the ghats, and the timeless essence of this ancient city was mesmerizing. Varanasi truly feels like a living tapestry of culture, tradition, and devotion. Your descriptions made me feel as if I was walking along the ghats and witnessing the sacred rituals myself. Thank you for sharing such a heartfelt and vivid experience!