Best Tourist Places in Varanasi in 2023
Varanasi, also known as Banaras or Kashi, is one of the oldest and holiest cities in India, situated in the state of Uttar Pradesh. Varanasi is a city that has fascinated and attracted people for centuries, and it is known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and religious significance. Varanasi is situated on the banks of the river Ganges, which is considered one of the most sacred rivers in India. This city is not only a spiritual and religious center but also a tourist destination that attracts visitors from all over the world. In this article, we will explore the best tourist places in Varanasi that one should visit.
The Ghats of Varanasi
The Ghats of Varanasi are one of the main attractions of the city. These Ghats are a series of steps that lead down to the river Ganges. There are around 80 Ghats in Varanasi, and each Ghat has its own significance and history. Some of the famous Ghats are the DasaswamedhGhat, AssiGhat, ManikarnikaGhat, and HarishchandraGhat. The Ghats are not only a religious site but also a place where people come to take a dip in the holy river and cleanse their sins. The Ghats also offer a great view of the sunrise and sunset over the river Ganges.
Kashi Vishwanath Temple
KashiVishwanath Temple is one of the most famous temples in Varanasi. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and it is said to be one of the twelve Jyotirlingas in India. The temple has been destroyed and rebuilt many times over the centuries, and the current structure was built in the 18th century by the Maratha queen, AhilyabaiHolkar. The temple is located near the DashashwamedhGhat and is surrounded by narrow lanes and alleys.
Sarnath
Sarnath is a small town located just 10 kilometers from Varanasi, and it is known for its Buddhist heritage. Sarnath is where Gautama Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. The town has several Buddhist temples and stupas, and it attracts a large number of Buddhist pilgrims from all over the world. The famous attractions in Sarnath include the DhamekhStupa, the ChaukhandiStupa, and the MulagandhaKutiVihar.
Ram nagar Fort
Ram nagar Fort is located on the eastern bank of the river Ganges and is just across the river from Varanasi. The fort was built in the 18th century by the king of Varanasi, Raja Balwant Singh, and it has been the home of the royal family of Varanasi ever since. The fort has several interesting artifacts, including vintage cars, weapons, and manuscripts. The fort also houses a museum that showcases the history of the royal family of Varanasi.
Banaras Hindu University
Banaras Hindu University (BHU) is one of the largest residential universities in Asia. The university was founded in 1916 by the nationalist leader, PanditMadan Mohan Malviya. The university has several beautiful buildings and gardens, and it is a great place to spend an afternoon walking around. The BHU also has several museums, including the Bharat Kala Bhavan, which houses a collection of Indian art and artifacts.
Chunar Fort
Chunar Fort is located about 40 kilometers from Varanasi, and it is a great place to visit if you are interested in history and architecture. The fort was built in the 11th century by the king ofChunar, and it was later captured by the Mughals and the British. The fort has several interesting features, including a mosque, a temple, and a well-preserved palace. The fort also offers a great view of the Ganges and the surrounding countryside.
Kedar Ghat
KedarGhat is one of the most popular Ghats in Varanasi. It is located near the KashiVishwanath Temple and is known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings. The Ghat is also famous for the Kedareshwar Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is believed to be one of the oldest temples in Varanasi, and it attracts a large number of devotees.
Tulsi Manas Mandir
TulsiManasMandir is a famous temple located in Varanasi. The temple is dedicated to Lord Rama, and it is believed to be the place where Tulsidas, the author of the Ramcharitmanas, wrote the epic poem. The temple has beautiful marble carvings and paintings that depict scenes from the Ramayana. The temple is also surrounded by a beautiful garden, which is a great place to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Gyanvapi Mosque
Gyanvapi Mosque is located near the KashiVishwanath Temple, and it is known for its beautiful architecture. The mosque was built by Aurangzeb in the 17th century, and it is believed to be built on the site of an ancient Hindu temple. The mosque has several interesting features, including beautiful arches and intricate carvings.
Bharat Mata Temple
Bharat Mata Temple is a unique temple located in Varanasi. The temple is dedicated to Mother India, and it is a symbol of the unity and diversity of India. The temple has a beautiful marble map of India, which is a great way to learn about the different states and regions of India. The temple is also surrounded by a beautiful garden, which is a great place to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
In conclusion, Varanasi is a city that has something to offer to everyone. Whether you are interested in history, religion, architecture, or just want to experience the vibrant culture of India, Varanasi is a great place to visit. The Ghats, KashiVishwanath Temple, Sarnath, Ramnagar Fort, Banaras Hindu University, Chunar Fort, KedarGhat, TulsiManasMandir, Gyanvapi Mosque, and Bharat Mata Temple are some of the best tourist places in Varanasi that one should visit. These attractions offer a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Varanasi and are sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who visits them.
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