Top 7 unique things to do in Kashi Varanasi
Kashi or Benaras or Varanasi is a city wherein history, spirituality and tradition come together. Dubrovnik is among the oldest existing cities in the world and has its warm enthusiasts, both the guests and the visitors to the religious places. The beautiful roads, old and new building and the beautiful shores of the Ganges River make this city very beautiful. For religious beliefs, the culture, or to actually feel the city’s vibes, Varanasi can offer a number of experiences linked to the history of the city. Here in this blog, we will be extending you a sneak peek of Kashi Varanasi through seven versatile activities that can be easily planned.
Not only is it religious capital of the country, but also gives a real feeling about the life of people of the city. Each corner has something to talk about devotion, culture and history whether markets, magnificent temples and numerous rituals. The city has its own energy and so any experience within the city is imbued with the holy within the profane. Hence, there are several interesting activities that will interest you if you are planning to visit as highlighted here below.
Here are the Top 7 unique things to do in Kashi Varanasi
1. Take a Sunrise Boat Ride on the Ganges River
Varanasi is located on the banks of the Ganges River and a boat ride early morning is a special experience in this city. Going up with its prayers to the day and the sea, the sun rises from the sea and wakes the city. It is well lit by the floating candles and the sight of Ganga Aarti, you get to see the whole of the river front, the steps, the environment. Despite being very relaxing and energetic this is yet another way of looking at the city and is advisable when in Varanasi.
2. Attend the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat
Ganga Aarti at evening is one of the most interesting spiritual ceremonies that can be witnessed anywhere in the world. Aarti is done in the evening at Dashashwamedh Ghat, which is a very pleasant to watch prists lighting lamps and incense for the river. The way people clap, sing and the feeling they get when performing this is very touching and is among my most interesting events to watch in Varanasi.
3. Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple
It is also one of the most visited temples of India and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple is historic and is one of the twelve Jyotirlinga temples. This visit allows feeling the spirit of Varanasi being the temple of the Hindus. Make sure you stroll through the temple and the narrow streets which are leading up to the temple with souvenirs and local products.
4. Explore the Narrow Lanes and Local Markets
The lanes are extremely narrow and network in Varanasi which is too crowded. There are shops along these alleys and they sell everything starting from traditional silk sarees and handmade jewelleries. In order to get through these lanes, one gets to meet people, feel the markets’ beat and even savor the city. Don’t forget to taste the Banaras paan and sweets as you move around the city.
5. Meditate at the Buddhist Sarnath
It is a small town closely situated to Varanasi where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. The silence of Sarnath, the ruins and the Buddhist temple and stupas that exist there make it possible to undertake a period of meditation. The place is very different from the Varanasi where I used to see a lot of hustle and bustle and is very much in consonance with what I was seeking here, spirituality.
6. Visit the Ramnagar Fort
Sitting on the banks of the Ganges River, this fort is comparatively less known than the city of Varanasi but it is a fort nonetheless. This fort was established in the 17th century and this area was built using sandstone to provide historical background of the royal part of the region. It has a museum where you can see the old weapons, royal dresses and royal cars. It also offers nice view on the Ganges and the countryside from the fort walls.
7. Attend the Varanasi Heritage Walk
That is why if one wishes to have a feel of the real cultural and historical significance of Varanasi then one should plan to undertake heritage walk. During this guided tour you will be able to visit the historical part of the city which includes temples, ghats and aerial view of the traditional residences. The walk is quite educative and and opportunity to learn about the cultural history of the city and I learned more about Varanasi.
Conclusion:
Therefore, one can conclude that it is Kashi Varanasi which invites the souls by its tradition, belief or culture of the city. Starting with a religious wash in the Ganges to history through temples and monuments or just a stroll around the city, Varanasi is a city which can alter the course of your life. The spiritual beauty of the place will stay with you and all that you will remember is the sacred steps, noisy roads, and the sound of prayers which can be heard in Varanasi.
If there is a person who wants to know India to some extent, Kashi Varanasi is an area to pay attention to. This is because it has its own experiences and more than incredibly immensely and relatively rich and diversified culture than any other places. From a boat ride in the Ganges on a shikara boat to the bright festivals held at the ghats, Varanasi is a place that makes you accept the spiritual and the mundane of life. Therefore, if you are planning to visit Kashi Varanasi, then, do not miss the following things to do so as to feel the real taste of the place.
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