Varanasi is not just a place that you find on a map. It transcends the bounds of geography and, sits at the crossroads of spirituality and mythology. Being one of the first major settlements in and around the Ganges delta, Varanasi is the focal point of Hinduism, Buddhism, and their ancillary spiritual movements. But it would be wrong if I said that this ancient city is just another pilgrimage site.
It doesn’t matter which religion you follow, or if you follow one at all, the meandering alleys of Varanasi attract everyone. Over the centuries, people from all walks of life have scurried up and down the steps of the numerous ghats leading to the Ganges. Each on an individual journey, in search of peace, meaning and, tranquillity.
Now that I have your attention, let me stir your curiosity further and give you a list of unique activities that you can only do in Varanasi. So, sit back, tilt your screen, and, let me take you on a tour around god’s own neighbourhood.
1. Go on a Temple Run:
Kashi, or Varanasi is one of the oldest, continuously inhabited settlements on Earth. Hence, it’s a no-brainer that it houses some of the oldest Hindu architecture known to us. These timeless temples are still visited, maintained, and worshipped by millions of devotees every day.
Step out of your hotel, grab a ride on a tuk-tuk and, you will transport yourself back several centuries, to a time long lost in the dusty pages of history.
2. Sunset on the Ganges:
After spending the entire day, maneuvering around relics, deities, people, and animals, its time you sat down for a breather. My suggestion will be, that you get yourself a cup of the legendary chai, find a cool spot at the steps of one of the ghats, and watch the sun going down across the horizon.
The banks of Varanasi offer some of the best sunset spots in the world. As the Sun goes down, its vibrant rays bounce off the flat walls of the many forts, temples, towers, and squires that line the river. You will see yourself sandwiched between the golden hues radiating from the walls and the shimmering sparkle from the river surface.
It is as if you have a front-row seat to a spectacular light and sound show.
3. Ganga Aarti:
Once you are done watching this incredible sunset experience, finish up your tea and slowly head over to the legendary Dashashwamedh Ghat. Here you will witness an n of one phenomenon: the Ganga Aarti. Like the one conducted in Haridwar, the Dashashwamedh Ghat Aarti draws an enormous crowd, and the entire presentation is a site to behold.
As the sun sets, people from different parts of the city huddle together around the ghat, its steps, and on the verandas overlooking the river. The crowd expands into the water, where boats and steamers provide seats to onlookers as the Aarti unfolds into the dusk.
Imagine sitting on a boat, as the cool Ganges breeze rushes over you. You are watching on as Bright lights, showering flowers, and expert priests wielding their flaming torches put on a carnival of saffron flare and unified prayer chants.
4. Be One with Buddha:
Around 10 Km from the heart of Varanasi lies the Buddhist pilgrimage site of Sarnath. Gautama Buddha taught his first sermon here after he reached enlightenment. He initiated the Dharma Chakra Pravartana (wheel of law) from here. It is one of the four most sacred places in Buddhism, and it is steeped in history and spirituality.
If you are visiting Varanasi, Sarnath should be at the top of your list. Once you enter the premises, you will feel the ambient calmness, as you make your way through the sprawling gardens. If you hear intently, you will hear the Tibetan prayer chants floating through the air.
Our 21st-century lives are hectic and, often chaotic, spending time in the presence of the enlightened one will give your mental health a much-needed boost.
You should let Varanasi draw you in and take you on a short walk down spirituality avenue. It doesn’t matter which spectrum of life you are in right now, Kashi Dham has an answer for everyone.
Still not convinced, wondering if such a crowded pilgrimage can offer proper accommodation?
Here let me help you out, I have compiled a list of top 5 accommodations in Varanasi, feel free to check them out. So, what are you waiting for, choose one and head out this weekend.
Top accommodations in Varanasi:
1. Stay Banaras:
2. Shiva Ganges View Guest House:
3. BrijRama Palace:
4. Hotel Surya Kaiser Palace:
5. Aashray Homestay:
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