Post Last Modified – Aug 04, 2021
Top Rated Things To Do In Varanasi India
The second stop on our amazing 7 week journey throughout India was the ancient city of Varanasi. In this article,Ive listed a few Things to Do in Varanasi that we did during our short visit to the city, and that you may enjoy as well.
We highly anticipated our visit to one of the oldest living cities in the entire world!
A highly spiritual city lying next to the very holy Ganges River where Hindus ultimately come to rid themselves of their sins in the river and cremate their loved ones as well. For Hindus, it is the crossing place between their physical and spiritual worlds.
One has truly not experienced India without a visit to Varanasi!
After taking the overnight long train journey from New Delhi, we arrived at the Varanasi train station in the early afternoon and made our way to our lovely quaint hotel conveniently located in the city.
After getting settled in our hotel and planning our itinerary of places to visit for our 4 night stay in the city, we were off to discover the sites of the city.
With the famous Ghats, Temples and outlying communities to discover, there was little time to waste!
There’shistorical mosques, hidden alleys, bazaars, ancient Varanasi building architecture, the world’s biggest crematorium and local markets to discover!
Fascinating Things To Experience In Varanasi
Visiting the Ghats is without a doubt, the most popular attraction in the city, and the main reason why most come to visit in the first place.
There are approximately 80 Ghats in the area that border the Ganges River, all having a unique significance and used for a number of reasons including;
✔ Ritual Bathing;
✔ Swimming;
✔ Laundry;
✔ Yoga;
✔ Washing livestock;
✔ Tours and much more.
Ghats Definition:
A broad flight of steps that is situated on an Indian riverbank and that provides access to the water especially for bathing. [Merriman-Webster Dictionary]
Visit The Dashashwamedh Ghat
Dashashwamedh Ghat is the main and most popular Ghat on the Ganga River. It is ideally located close to many religious temples as well, including the Manikarnika Ghat. This large Ghat is also reflected as the most favorite and most used among the Hindu followers.
This main Ghat is easy to get to from most anywhere in the city. Just ask your taxi or 🛺 tuk-tuk driver to take you to the main Ghat in Varanasi.
Attend The Incredible Aarti Ceremony On The Ganges River
The Aarti Ceremony is a very religious and spiritual ritual that only takes place in front of a divine element. In Varanasi of course, it is on the Ganges River.
A number of young priests perform this ritual dressed in saffron colored dress with puja thali (prayer materials on a tray) and a big brass Aarti lamp.
The crowds are enormous for the nightly ritual as you can see in the pictures!
Experience The Manikarnika Ghat In Varanasi
This is also referred to as the Burning Ghat which is used for cremation among Hindu followers. There is a very spiritual process that takes place prior to cremation that truly is awe inspiring to witness first hand.
As you make your way to the Ghat, you will be approached by a guide that will lead you up a flight of stairs to a viewing area. He will explain the process to you and then request a donation towards the purchase of wood, for cremating those who are unable to afford it on their own.
It’s entirely up to you to decide on what you would like to donate, and not what they asking for.
Note:
It is also very important to respect the traditions, observe quietly and not to take close up photographs if at all possible, out of respect for the deceased and their families.
Travel To The Town of Sarnath
Sarnath is a town located just 12 km from Varanasi and is the site of the deer park where Gautama Buddha first taught the Dharma after his enlightenment.
Sarnath is one of four very holy Buddhist sites and of which was sanctioned by the Buddha himself for pilgrimage.
Dhamekh Stupa Sarnath India
Its a lovely peaceful setting where you can escape the crowds of Varanasi and view the ruins and temples of the Buddhists. Sights and Activities here include;
✔Main Shrine;
✔Monastery Ruins;
✔Ashoka Pillar;
✔Chaukhandi Stupa;
✔Dhamekh Stupa and much more.
Visit The Historic Ramnagar Fort
Ramnagar Fort lies on the banks of the river Ganga and is the inherited home to the Maharaja of Varanasi. The Fort is just 14 kilometres from Varanasi.
Built in 1750, and constructed in red sandstone in a typical Mughal style of architecture, complete with striking carved balconies and open patio areas.
This unique fortress also is home to the Ved Vyasa shrine, a museum and a residential compound for the King.
It is an interesting and a relaxing place to stop once inside the gates, especially for history buffs!
Attending this Fort was a nice shortouting and tuk-tuk ride. The buildings are of historical nature with a museum to view as well.
Enjoy Fresh Homemade Yogurt At The Blue Lassi Shop
I discovered this shop on TripAdvisor which came highly recommended!
It is a very tiny yogurt shop in Varanasi, with a reputation for serving the freshest, creamiest, fruit-filled lassis you will ever experience. This tiny business has been serving yogurt for over 90 years now!
The shop is tucked away on one of the many narrow alley ways found in the city. Trust me, you will not find it, but any tuk-tuk driver will know where this landmark is.
You simply have to visit at least once, the yogurt is absolutely amazing, and to watch it being prepared is something to experience as well.
Definitely worth the visit!
The wall of happy visitors who have enjoyed a yogurt at the Blue Lassi including yours truly!
Don’t Miss The Incredible Sunrise Boat Tour
Taking the early morning sunrise boat tour on the Ganges was definitely the highlight of our stay of all the attractions we visited in Varanasi. It really is something special to rise before day break and witness the religious and spiritual activities.
It is truly an unforgettable experience like no other observing these spiritual activities taking place on the Ghats along the river as the sun rises above the horizon.
We had a very special tour with our host on a small private row boat, making this event even more special.
Theres something mysterious and magical that seems to occur within, when you witness first hand the hundreds of devoted people bathing and performing spiritual rituals along this very holy river.
If theres just one thing you do during your stay in Varanasi, its to definitely rise early and experience a Sunrise Boat Tour as we did.
Be sure to check my review and photos of our morning tour with 🌅 Streetwise Varanasi Tours. It was an incredible experience to say the least, and one not soon forgotten.
Walk the Alleyways And Explore The Shops of Varanasi
Off course, you simply must walk among the maze of ancient alleyways and shopping streets of Varanasi for whole experience of the city. It gives you a deeper understanding of everyday life for those living in this historical city.
We were very fortunate with our tour guide, who having been born and raised in the city, was able to take us to many places we may have not found on our own.
There you have it, just a few suggestions for you to consider when looking for Things to Do in Varanasi, India. Its an awe inspiring experience to witness the events occurring first hand on the banks of the Holy River Ganga.
I’ve also listed the Official Government of India Tourism link below to their website for your convenience. The link will take you to their page on Varanasi. It’s filled with excellent information on everything this incredible part of India has to offer.
Safe and Healthy Travels!
✨ Did You Know
“It Is Believed That The Holy City Of Varanasi India Was Once The Home Of Lord Shiva And Goddess Parvati.”
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