It is practically a given for middle-aged Indians to visit Varanasi at some time in their lives. The location's legendary past, religious significance, and architectural and artistic treasures that have preserved the area's heritage for all time are the reasons behind this. Praised as one of India's holiest towns, it boasts a plethora of temples and ghats that serve as a gathering place for pilgrims from all across the nation. It naturally heightens the sacredness of the Ganga river's passage through Varanasi.
Varanasi has many locations to explore; here is a brief list of the top 5 attractions you must not miss if you happen to find yourself in the country of mysticism.
Top 5 Places to Visit in Varanasi in 2024
1. Kashi Vishwanath Temple
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It is widely regarded as the most important temple in all of Varanasi, and even by some, as the most important temple in the nation. Its narrative spans an incredible 3,500 years, which is an incredible period. It is difficult to visit and not be overwhelmed by all that has transpired there. It is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, or Shivalingas, which are the real-life representations of Lord Shiva. The shrine's domes and spires are entirely coated in gold. That was the doing of the then ruler of Punjab, Maharaja Ranjit Singh, as the Golden Temple serves as evidence of the Punjabi custom of gold-covering temple domes. A single glance of the Shivalinga, according to many devotees, purifies the soul and sets one's life on a road of wisdom.
Timings: 2:30 AM to 11:00 PM
Temple Schedule:
Mangal Aarti: 2:30 AM
Bhog Aarti: 11:30 AM to 12:00 pm
Sapta Rishi Aarti: 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM (darshan not allowed)
Shringar/Bhog Aarti: 9:00 PM (only outside darshan allowed)
Shayana Aarti: 10:30 PM
2. Durga Temple
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This temple, which honours Goddess Durga, is a representation of feminine divinity. It is thought that the god housed within this temple appeared out of nowhere and was not created by humans. The fact that a woman ordered this temple is another symbol of its feminism. It was made by the Maharani of Bengal, whose demands were fulfilled in having the Nagara architectural style used in its construction. However, the fact that several monkeys visit this temple every day may be the most fascinating aspect of it. This area is frequently referred to as "Monkey Temple" due to the abundance of monkeys. So, when you come here, watch out for those cheeky monkeys.
Timings: 5:00 AM- 9:00 PM
3. Bharat Mata Temple
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It is one of the rarest shrines in the nation, devoted to the nation itself. India is well-known for its millions of temples and its nationalist ethos, yet the nation itself is not commemorated in many locations. Almost every traveller to Varanasi visits this temple because it is so unique. Located within the grounds of the Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapith, it was opened by Gandhi in 1936. It was meant to serve as a ray of love and optimism for everyone engaged in combat with the British. At this temple, the statue of mountains, plains, and oceans is shown instead of a humanoid god.
Timings: 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM
4. Dashashwamedh Ghat
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This specific ghat is remarkable since it's said to be the oldest in the city. You likely witnessed this ghat if you have seen videos of people worshipping on riverbanks, swimming in the Ganga, and holding diyas in their hands. Because so many people go there to pray and have their sins washed away, it is frequently bustling. Every day, ascetics, Hindu devotees, and tourists all land at Dashashwamedh Ghat on the banks of the Ganga. It is a must-see on any trip to Varanasi because it is such a significant landmark and the location of the well-known Ganga Aarti.
Aarti Timings: 7:00 PM to 7:45 PM (summers); 6:00 PM to 6:45 PM (winters)
5. Ramnagar Fort
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Situated across the Ganga River from Tulsi Ghat, it was constructed in 1750 AD using sandstone at the behest of Raja Balwant Singh, the then-king of Banaras. It has been centuries since he and his ancestors inhabited the fort. Although the government removed the title of formal king in 1971, Pelu Bhiru Singh is still widely known as the Maharaja of Varanasi. Its Mughal architecture belies the fact that it was constructed by Hindu monarchs, demonstrating the variety of the area. The king's residence, the Veda Vyasa Temple, and a museum specializing in local history are all housed there.
Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: Rs 20
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Akanksha Sinha
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