Best places to visit in Varanasi – Things to do in Varanasi are not as numerous as the lists in other cities, but some of them are overlooked by those planning a trip to this city. Varanasi is as old as human civilization. The ancient city set on the banks of the Ganges River is located in Uttar Pradesh. One of the seven holy cities in India, Varanasi also has the names of Benares and Kashi. From birth to death, every aspect of earthly existence and some claim that even salvation is achieved only in the 5000-year-old city. The experience of the city is beyond words. Two worlds meet in Varanasi and each one is spectacular in its own way. The beating heart of Hindu culture, pilgrims believe that the city offers moksha (liberation from the cycle of birth and death). And then there are nuances of modernity in activities like evening art which is a large-scale show.

Best places to visit in Varanasi – Boat ride in the river Ganges

The sacred river Ganges provides Varanasi with a spiritual charm with rowing boat trips during sunrise is perhaps one of the best things to do in Varanasi. The ride along the river Ganges is some of the experiences of Varanasi that you will cherish for a lifetime. It takes us through several Ghats and former palaces located near the banks of the Ganges, offering a panoramic view of this river and the region. Observe the Hindu rituals. The best time to enjoy the boat ride on the river Ganges is the hour of sunrise and the hour of sunset. Early in the morning from 5:30 to 8:00 is a good way to see the sunrise and the city envelops you in its charm. Even a sunset boat ride, especially during the aarti, is spectacular.

Best places to visit in Varanasi – Bathe in the Ganges

The sacred river Ganges provides Varanasi with a spiritual charm. The waters of the Ganges River are sacred. The divine river offers salvation to all those who bathe in the water. Pilgrims from all over the world, regardless of their age, plunge into the water to absolve their sins and reach moksha, liberation from the cycle of birth and death. Varanasi has more than 84 Ghats with ladders leading to the waters. The bathroom happens here seen from the first light of dawn. People sing prayers to appease the River Goddess.

Best places to visit in Varanasi – Varanasi Temples

Because of their religious significance, the temples top the list of things to do in Varanasi. In the holy land of the gods, the temples of Varanasi offer a direct encounter with the gods. The ancient city has a temple in every corner. Some temples have ties to legends from Hindu mythology and many are built to honor their faith. The architecture of the temples is noteworthy. The spiritual atmosphere is purifying the soul and certainly deserves your time. The most popular of the temples here is the Kashi Vishwanath temple. Set in two golden domes, the temple was built in 1780 by Queen Ahilyabai Holker of Indore. Here is a Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva known as Vishwanath. Other popular temples are the 18th century Durga temple, the Annapurna temple, the Ankatha temple, the Kalbhairav ​​temple, the Mritunjay Mahadev temple, the Tulsi Manas, the Sankatmochan, the Bharat Mata temple, etc.

Best places to visit in Varanasi – A sunset walk along the Ghats

The Ghat along the Ganga river in Varanasi is the most fascinating spectacle of the holy city. Walking along the Ghats at sunset is an unrivaled experience. Exploring the Ghat is one of the best things to do in Varanasi. The city has almost a hundred Ghats, the steps of each leading to the waters of the Ganges river. These are bathing Ghat, praying Ghats and cremation sites for Hindus all over the world. Dashashwamedh Ghat, associated with two Hindu mythologies, is one of the best places to explore. Some of the other main Ghats include Assa Ghat, Mata Anandamai Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, Munshi Ghat, Raj Ghat, Scindia Ghat, etc. It is believed that Tulsi Ghat does get rid of leprosy and is highly revered by everyone.