Although there aren’t as many things to do in Varanasi as there are in other cities, a few of them are missed by visitors. Varanasi dates back to the dawn of human civilization. Uttar Pradesh is home to the ancient city of Varanasi, which sits on the banks of the Ganges River. Varanasi, one of India’s seven sacred towns, is also known as Benares and Kashi. Every facet of earthly existence, including salvation, is only achieved in the 5000-year-old metropolis, according to some. The city’s experience is indescribable. Varanasi brings two worlds together, each fascinating in its own way.
Pilgrims think that the city promises moksha or salvation, and it is the pulsing heart of Hindu culture (liberation from the cycle of birth and death). Then there are modernization overtures in activities like the evening aarti, which is a large-scale extravaganza.
THESE ARE 11 THINGS TO DO IN VARANASI IF YOU VISIT THIS HOLY CITY.
GANGES RIVER BOAT RIDE
Varanasi is enchanted by the sacred Ganges River, and rowing boat tours before dawn are undoubtedly one of the most excellent things to do in Varanasi. The Ganges River ride is one of the Varanasi experiences you will remember for the rest of your life. It takes you through various Ghats and erstwhile palaces near the Ganges River’s banks, providing a panoramic picture of the river and the surroundings. Pay attention to the Hindu practices.
The greatest time to enjoy a Ganges River boat trip is around the morning and dusk hours. Early in the morning, between 5:30 and 8 a.m., is a great time to see the SunriseSunrise and the city wraps you in its allure. A sunset boat trip is equally magnificent, especially during the aarti.
GO FOR A BATH IN THE GANGES
Varanasi is spiritually enchanted by the holy Ganges River. The Ganges River’s waters are sacred. Everyone who takes a dip in the heavenly river will be saved. Pilgrims of all ages from around the world bathe in the water to wash away their sins and achieve moksha or escape from the cycle of birth and death.
There are about 84 Ghats in Varanasi that lead to the waters. Since the early hours of the morning, people have been bathing here. To placate the River Goddess, people chant prayers.
RENDEZVOUS WITH THE GODS AT VARANASI’S TEMPLES
Temples are high on the list of things to do in Varanasi because of their religious significance. The temples of Varanasi give a direct encounter with gods in the holy land of gods. In every nook and cranny of the historic city, there is a temple. Some temples are linked to Hindu mythology legends, while others are created to respect their beliefs. The temples’ architecture is noteworthy. The spiritual ambiance is refreshing to the soul and well worth your time.
The most well-known of the temples in this area is the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Queen Ahilyabai Holker of Indore erected the temple, which is covered in two gold domes, in 1780. Lord Shiva’s Vishwanath Jyotirlinga is enshrined here. Popular temples include the 18th-century Durga Temple, Annapurna Temple, Ankatha Temple, Kalbhairav Temple, Mritunjay Mahadev Temple, Tulsi Manas, Sankatmochan, and Bharat Mata Temple.
GOING FOR A GHATS SUNSET STROLL
Varanasi’s Ghats along the Ganga River are the most beautiful sight in the holy city. Walking along the Ghats at sunset is a once-in-a-lifetime event. One of the nicest things to do in Varanasi is to explore the Ghats. The city contains about a hundred Ghats, each with steps leading to the Ganges’ waters. For Hindus from all over the world, they are bathing Ghats, praying Ghats, and cremation sites.
Dashashwamedh Ghat, which is connected to two Hindu mythology, is one of the most interesting destinations to visit. The Assi Ghat, Mata Anandamai Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, Munshi Ghat, Raj Ghat, Scindia Ghat, and others are some of the other notable Ghats. Tulsi Ghat is revered by all as a place where people can get rid of leprosy.
AARTI CEREMONY AT GANGES RIVER IN THE EVENING
When it comes to things to do in Varanasi, the evening aarti is one of the most popular pastimes. The Evening Aarti Ceremony at Varanasi’s Ganges River is unquestionably a sight you will remember for a long time. From the Dasawamedh Ghat, the strange event must be witnessed. As you watch the exquisite ceremonies develop in front of your eyes, you will be spellbound. During the spiritual greeting, enormous brass lamps weighing over 4.5 kg are used. Chants, flower smells, and incense combine to produce a lovely blessing.
Source- indianholiday.com
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