Contact Us9 Must-See Attractions in Banaras and Varanasi for First-Time Visitors
Varanasi or Banaras is a city which echoes sacred vibrations, recorded history and timeless values. It is one of the oldest living cities in the world and allows the visitors to experience India’s rich tradition and its alive culture. Famously called the ‘city of temples’ Banaras left a great impression on me and many other tourists and pilgrims who travel to this incredible place to get a glimpse of centuries old culture of India. The actual Ganges River, Banaras and Varanasi historical buildings, and vibrant ghats definitely should be on the list of every tourist who is going to visit India.
To a first time visitor, Varanasi can be quite imposing with its busy markets, religious offerings and ambience. But it is this energy that the people from across the world come to experience. If you are in search of the spiritual touch or the history of the ancient civilization, you will find it here. Because of its history and the connection to Hinduism, Banaras is an unforgetable experience. The city is a complete mix of the old and the new world and can be regarded as a best way to explore the essence of India.
There are some things in Banaras which are must see places when one is planning to travel to this place. Varanasi is full of such places starting from the temples to the Ghats along the banks of the Ganges River. Whether you are visiting Banaras for the first time and want to discover the spiritual side of the city or you are coming back with the purpose of exploring the must-see attractions, which are waiting for you, you are going to have a great time. Therefore, prepare yourself for the discovery of the secrets of Varanasi – a city with a soul, which everyone will remember.
Here are the 9 Must-See Attractions in Banaras and Varanasi for First-Time Visitors
1. The Ganges River (Ganga Aarti)
Tourist visiting Banaras or Varanasi cannot afford to miss the mighty Ganges River and its banks. The Ganges is the holiest river of the India has been playing an important role in the lives of the people of India since ancient period. The evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat is a beautiful prayer to the river Ganga in which priests light lamps and perform puja, which is a beautiful sight. For first timers to Banaras, the Ganga Aarti is something they will never forget and apart from that, the city is a spiritual experience in itself.
2. Kashi Vishwanath Temple
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is among the most sacred temples that are dedicated to Lord Shiva. Sited in the religious city of Varanasi, this temple is one of the oldest religious structures of Hindu religion. Every first-time traveler should spare some time to understand the architectural work on this temple, and feel the serenity of the place. The proximity of the temple to the Ganges also gives one an opportunity to touch the spiritualness of the city.
3. Sarnath
Located in close proximity to Varanasi is Sarnath, which, as the name suggests is a very important Buddhist site as this is where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. Here, you can visit the Dhamek Stupa that symbolizes the place, where Buddha delivered his initial teachings, and Sarnath Archaeological Museum filled with the Buddhist relics. Sarnath is a beautiful quiet place ideal for meditation and spiritual enlightenment for those interested.
4. Manikarnika Ghat
Cremation of the dead is carried out at the known burning ghat or Manikarnika Ghat. This might seem a little overwhelming, but at the same time it is one of the most iconic ghats of Banaras which gives a real feel of the city’s religious history and values. Tourism is usually shocked to experience deep and serious vibes as this ghat represents the cycle of life and death and reincarnation as per Hindu mythology.
5. Ramnagar Fort
Situated on the other side of the river from the principal town, the Ramnagar Fort and palace complex is a fine example of historical and architectural heritage of India with elements of local culture still intact. Constructed in the eighteenth century, this fort was originally a palace for the Maharaja of Varanasi. It has museums, which display classic cars, royalty items, and manuscripts, and the structures can be visited by anyone. The fort also provides excellent view of the Ganges and is a perfect place to capture pictures.
6. Banaras Hindu University (BHU)
The Banaras Hindu University is one of the largest and most reputed university of India recognized by the UGC. During a walk around the territory of the university, you will discover a calm and peaceful environment of the university and the temples and museums located in the territory of the university. BHU is not only a centre for education but also for Indian culture as the university has many programs in art, music and dance.
7. Assi Ghat
Assi Ghat is the last ghat in the Varanasi and it is most preferred location by the visitors as well as the inhabitants. It is famous for its non-commercialised environment and therefore is ideal for visitors who would like to spend time along the Ganges River. There are boat trips, yoga classes, and even just lounging on the deck to watch the world go by. There are also several temples and restaurants available for tourists to taste the famous Banarasi food.
8. Tulsi Manas Mandir
Tulsi Manas Mandir is temple of Lord Ram, well known as the place where Ramcharitmanas was composed by Tulsidas. This is a very lovely white marble temple with beautiful carvings and paintings that depict scenes from the Ramayana, hence it is a temple of some kind. The location of the temple is serene and allows people to pray and meditate as well as get some time off exploring Varanasi.
9. Kedar Ghat
Kedar Ghat is one of the less frequented ghats and visitors can spend time and take a worthy look at the resident’s activities by the Ganges. The ghat is named after Kedar Temple which is a temple of Lord Shiva. It is a good place to watch the local traditions, take a boat ride or just watch the sunrise over the Ganges.
Conclusion:
Therefore, Banaras or Varanasi is an ideal place to visit which is religious, artistic, and ancient. It could be the first time that you are visiting this city or the second or third time you are visiting this city to participate in its timeless rituals; there is always something that the city offers every traveler. The Ganges River, the temples and the ghats are all beauty and meaning in Varanasi, so every tourist who wishes to feel the pulse of India should visit the city. When added to the spiritual touch it comes with the cultural feel of the city, Banaras and Varanasi makes a visit to Banaras a memory that would forever be etched in any traveler.
To Varanasi it will become apparent wherever you find yourself in this city, this place does not release you easily. Whether you come to Banaras in search of spirituality or monuments, or a good tourist spot, you will feel a sense of India. So keep your suitcase open and get prepared for these marvelous wonders of Banaras – Every second is a discovery, analysis and amazement.
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