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Popular Spiritual Places To Visit In Varanasi | Pilgrimage Destination India
Popular Spiritual Places to Visit in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Varanasi, also known as Kashi, is one of the oldest living cities in the world and a holy place for Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains. The city is located on the banks of the River Ganges and is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva, the Hindu god of destruction and regeneration. Varanasi is a popular spiritual destination that attracts millions of pilgrims and tourists every year. In this article, we will explore the popular spiritual places to visit in Varanasi.
Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most famous and revered temples in Varanasi. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located near the Dashashwamedh Ghat. The temple has been destroyed and rebuilt many times, the current structure was built by Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore in the 18th century. The temple is a must-visit for anyone seeking spiritual enlightenment and a glimpse of Varanasi's rich culture and heritage.
Dashashwamedh Ghat
Dashashwamedh Ghat is the most popular and busiest ghat in Varanasi. It is located on the banks of the Ganges and is believed to be the place where Lord Brahma created the ten horses needed for the sacrifice of Lord Shiva. The ghat is known for its evening aarti, a Hindu religious ritual in which fire is offered to the deities. It is a spectacular sight to behold and a must-visit for anyone visiting Varanasi.
Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple
Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the monkey god, and is located near the Banaras Hindu University. The temple is believed to have been built by the 16th-century poet Tulsidas, who wrote the Ramcharitmanas. The temple is known for its peaceful and serene surroundings and is a popular spot for meditation and spiritual introspection.
Manikarnika Ghat
Manikarnika Ghat is one of the oldest and most sacred ghats in Varanasi. It is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva and Parvati took a bath and where the latter lost her earrings. The ghat is also known as the burning ghat, as it is the place where the dead are cremated. It is a sacred and spiritual place that offers a unique glimpse into the cycle of life and death.
Assi Ghat
Assi Ghat is a popular ghat located at the confluence of the River Ganges and the Assi River. It is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva came to wash away his sins after killing the demon Tripurasura. The ghat is known for its beautiful and peaceful surroundings and is a popular spot for yoga and meditation.
Sarnath
Sarnath is a Buddhist pilgrimage site located near Varanasi, known for its historical and spiritual significance. It is believed that Lord Buddha gave his first sermon in Sarnath, after attaining enlightenment in Bodh Gaya. The site is home to several ancient Buddhist temples and stupas, including the famous Dhamek Stupa and the Chaukhandi Stupa.
Tulsi Manas Temple
The Tulsi Manas Temple is a popular temple in Varanasi, dedicated to Lord Rama. The temple is famous for its beautiful architecture and for its walls, which are engraved with the Ramcharitmanas, an epic poem that tells the story of Lord Rama.
Ramnagar Fort
The Ramnagar Fort is a popular tourist attraction in Varanasi, located on the banks of the river Ganges. The fort was built in the 18th century by the Maharaja of Benares, and it is home to a museum that showcases the history and culture of the region.
Kedar Ghat
Kedar Ghat is a popular ghat in Varanasi, known for its beautiful architecture and religious significance. It is believed that Lord Vishnu took a bath at this ghat after slaying the demon Madhu. The ghat is also famous for its Kedareshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum
The Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum is a popular museum in Varanasi, located on the campus of the Banaras Hindu University. The museum showcases a wide range of exhibits related to the history and culture of the region, including sculptures, paintings, textiles, and manuscripts.
Gyanvapi Mosque
The Gyanvapi Mosque is a popular mosque in Varanasi, located near the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. The mosque was built in the 17th century by the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, and it is known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings.
New Vishwanath Temple
The New Vishwanath Temple is a modern temple in Varanasi, located near the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings.
Annapurna Temple
The Annapurna Temple is a popular temple in Varanasi, dedicated to Goddess Annapurna, the goddess of food. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture and is a popular destination for food lovers.
Hidden facts about Varanasi
Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Banaras, is a city in northern India that is steeped in history and culture. The city is situated on the banks of the River Ganges and is considered to be one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world. Here are some hidden facts about Varanasi that you may not know:
Firstly, Varanasi is a city of learning, with a rich history of education that dates back over 3000 years. The city is home to the famous Banaras Hindu University, which was founded in 1916 and is one of the largest residential universities in Asia.
Secondly, Varanasi is home to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most sacred temples in India. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is believed that a single visit to this temple can wash away all your sins and grant you moksha or liberation.
Thirdly, the city is famous for its burning ghats, where bodies are cremated according to Hindu rituals. It is believed that dying in Varanasi and being cremated on the banks of the Ganges can break the cycle of rebirth and lead to moksha.
Lastly, Varanasi is known to have a network of hidden tunnels that run beneath the city. These tunnels are believed to date back to ancient times and were used to transport goods and people throughout the city. Some of these tunnels are still accessible today, providing a glimpse into the city's rich history.
How to reach spiritual places in Varanasi by road and nearest bus stand?
Varanasi is well-connected to major cities in India by road. The city has a good network of national highways and state highways, making it easy to reach by road. There are several bus operators that offer regular bus services to Varanasi from major cities in India.
The nearest bus stand to the spiritual places in Varanasi depends on the specific location. For instance, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple and the Dashashwamedh Ghat are located in the heart of the city, and the nearest bus stand is the Varanasi Bus Stand, which is located approximately 5 km away. Other spiritual places, such as Sarnath, have their own bus stands located nearby.
Visitors can also opt for taxis or auto-rickshaws to reach the spiritual places in Varanasi from the bus stand or railway station. It is recommended to book a taxi or auto-rickshaw from authorized vendors and negotiate the fare before starting the journey.
How to reach spiritual places in Varanasi by train and nearest railway station?
Varanasi is well-connected to major cities in India by rail, and the city has multiple railway stations. The two main railway stations in Varanasi are Varanasi Junction and Mughal Sarai Junction.
Varanasi Junction is the main railway station in the city, and it is well-connected to major cities in India through regular trains. It is located in the heart of the city, and several spiritual places, such as the Kashi Vishwanath Temple and the Dashashwamedh Ghat, are located within a few kilometers from the station.
Mughal Sarai Junction is another major railway station in Varanasi, located approximately 15 km from the city center. It is well-connected to major cities in India through regular trains, and several spiritual places, such as Sarnath, have their own railway stations located nearby.
How to reach spiritual places in Varanasi by air and nearest airport?
Varanasi has its own airport, the Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, which is located approximately 25 km from the city center. The airport is well-connected to major cities in India, as well as some international destinations, through regular flights.
From the airport, visitors can hire taxis or book pre-paid taxis to reach the spiritual places in Varanasi. It is recommended to book a taxi from authorized vendors and negotiate the fare before starting the journey.
Several spiritual places, such as the Kashi Vishwanath Temple and the Dashashwamedh Ghat, are located within a few kilometers from the city center, while others, such as Sarnath, are located a bit further away. Visitors can opt for taxis or auto-rickshaws to reach their destination from the nearest bus stand or railway station.
FAQs
What is the best time to visit Varanasi?
The best time to visit Varanasi is between October and March when the weather is pleasant.
Is Varanasi safe for tourists?
Yes, Varanasi is generally safe for tourists, but it is recommended to take necessary precautions while traveling.
Can non-Hindus visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple?
No, non-Hindus are not allowed to enter the Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
What is the significance of the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat?
The Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat is a worship of the river Ganges, which is considered a holy river in Hinduism.
Are there any restrictions on photography at the ghats in Varanasi?
Yes, there are certain restrictions on photography at the ghats in Varanasi, and it is recommended to follow the rules and regulations.
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