varanasi

Formerly known as Banaras or Benares, Varanasi is regarded as the most holy city in Hinduism. It is the oldest and the most sought-after pilgrimage town for Hindu. It lies in the south of Uttar Pradesh, on the banks of the holy River Ganga and is believed to be the oldest living city in the world. The city is transcendental and attracts pilgrims from across India as well as abroad. When we think of Varanasi, we paint a colourful picture of the city in its vibrancy and fascination in our minds. Not only this but Varanasi is also considered to be a blessed place for the deceased, as the intimate rituals of life and death are parallelly performed on the Ghats.

• Ganges River – The Ganges River, also popularly known as Ganga, has religious significance. From time immemorial it has been the holy river for Hindus. The Ganges River in India is more than 2,500km long and has the most populated river basin in the world.
• Sarnath – Sarnath is located about 8 miles northeast of Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh. It is one of the four most important Buddhist pilgrimage destinations in the world. It has special significance because it's the place where the Buddha gave his first sermon.
• Dashashwamedh Ghat – The Dasashwamedh Ghat is believed to be the place where Lord Brahma performed the Dasa Ashwamedha sacrifice. This ghat is a religious spot and many rituals are performed here.
• Banaras Ghats – The Ghats in Varanasi symbolically represent the five diverse elements or Pancha Tattva that constitute the human body. They are believed to be the doorsteps of heaven, and millions of Sadhus and pilgrims pay their tributes to the gods standing on these Ghats which play an astounding role in the city's religious activities.
• Assi Ghat – One of the most popular ghats in Varanasi, Assi Ghat is located in the southern part of the holy city of Varanasi at the confluence of Ganga and Assi rivers. The ghat is visited for multiple reasons by a huge number of people. The famous evening aarti is a must to witness when in Assi Ghat.
• Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple – The famous Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple, also known as the Golden Temple is a Hindu temple that is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is located in Vishwanath Gali of Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh in India. As per the Hindu scriptures, the temple is considered as the core part of worship in the Shiva culture.
• Manikarnika Ghat – One of the oldest and most prestigious ghats of Varanasi, the Manikarnika Ghat has been accorded the highest position among other ghats by the holy scriptures in Hinduism. It is a belief that a person who dies and gets cremated in the Manikarnika Ghat experiences Moksha (salvation) instantly.
• Ganga Aarti – The Ganga Aarti is one of the most integral and divine part of the morning and evening religious ceremonies performed at Dashashwamedh Ghat in Varanasi. The magnificent ritual involves huge brass lamps lit with oil and the priests chant the holy mantras that reverberate in the entire location.
• Sankat Mochan Temple – The term ‘Sankat Mochan’ refers to reliever from problems. This very popular religious destination in Varanasi is a must visit. No pilgrimage tour in Varanasi is complete without having visited here. It is located in Saket Nagar Colony, Lanka, Varanasi and is open all day throughout the week for the devotees to come and worship.

• Ramada Plaza by Wyndham JHV Varanasi – The Ramada Plaza is one of the most sought-after and a luxurious stay at the city of temples, Varanasi. With its welcoming atmosphere and convenient amenities, this beautiful property makes for a comfortable stay.
• Taj Ganges, Varanasi – The Taj Ganges, is a peaceful retreat in the vibrant city of temples, Varanasi. It is spread over 40 acres of lush tropical garden and is an amazing place to stay at when on a trip to Varanasi.
• Raj Mahal Hotel – If you are looking for a budget friendly hotel to stay at in Varanasi, then Raj Mahal Hotel is the right choice for you. It is located in Jahumandi, 3 km from the Varanasi bus stand.
• Hotel Divine Destination – Hotel Divine Destination is a good choice for travellers looking for a 3-star hotel in Varanasi. It is located in Ramapura Luxa.
• Taj Nadesar Palace Varanasi – Surrounded by gardens and orchards, it's a haven of calm in the middle of the hustle of Varanasi.
• Brij Rama Palace – The Brij Rama Palace stands mighty on the serene banks of Darbhanga Ghat in Varanasi. It is one of the oldest man-made structures in the city and is considered to be a top-tier luxury hotel in Varanasi. The palace is often praised for its striking architecture and design which mirrors the rich heritage and culture of the city that it calls home.
• Hotel Four Element – The Hotel Four Elements is tranquilly situated at only a two-minute walk from the Banaras railway station. Its majestic and grandeur architecture is worth every minute you spend here.
• Hotel Buddha – Hotel Buddha is a centrally located hotel in Varanasi, India, offering deluxe rooms, super deluxe rooms, and suites with modern amenities like air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and minibars. The hotel has a rooftop restaurant serving Indian and international cuisine with views of the Ganges River, a spa for relaxation, and facilities including free Wi-Fi, 24-hour room service, laundry service, and a travel desk to help plan activities. It's an ideal choice for travelers looking to explore Varanasi's sights and sounds.
• Sugar Stars Inn – For anybody who is looking for a 3-star hotel in Varanasi, then Sugar Stars Inn is an ideal choice for the travellers. It is located in Mahmoorganj, Varanasi.
• Tattva Luxurious – This beautiful apartment is situated in the Cantonment part of Varanasi. It is an ideal spot for travellers who are wanting to discover the city.
• The Fern Residency Sarnath – A contemporary hotel with exquisite services, The Fern Residency is located in Sarnath, Varanasi. It has been rated as a 4-star accommodation.
• The art hotel by via Varanasi – The one of its kind 5-star hotel, The Art Hotel is a travel enthusiast’s home away from home. The place is very elegant and sophisticated. It is located at a 9-minute walking distance from Assi Ghat in Varanasi.

• Tadka at Ramada Plaza – Tadka Restaurant at Ramada Plaza in Varanasi is a renowned Indian cuisine specialty restaurant. If the foodie inside you is looking to relish Indian cuisines, then this place is a must visit for you. The pocket pinch for the meal of two is approximately INR 1200.
• The Palate at Ramada Plaza – The Palate at Ramada Plaza in Varanasi is a world cuisine interactive dining destination. It is open from 7 am to 11pm. They also provide with an elaborate buffet which is available for breakfast and dinner. They specialize in Continental and Oriental dishes. The food cost approximately INR 1400 for two people.
• Barbeque Nation – Renowned food chain Barbeque Nation has its outlet in Varanasi too. Now you do not have to miss out on your favourites. It is located in JHV Mall, Varanasi.
• Behind Yellow Doors Diner – With innumerous food options, you will be spoilt for choices. Behind Yellow Doors Diner is one of the best places in Varanasi to get your hands on scrumptious food. It is located in Sigra, Varanasi.
• Aadha-Aadha Cafe – Located in Sigra, Varanasi, this café is quintessential for every mood and outing. Its vintage décor is an add on. The pocket pinch for two people is approximately INR 300.
• Bowl of Compassion – One of the most recommended cafes, Bowl of Compassion is famous for Indian cuisine. It is located in Bengalitola, Varanasi.
• Vishnu Tea Emporium – The infamous tea stall located in Dashashwamedh, Varanasi, is a charming tea stop that is full of delicious Indian teas and coffees.
• Niyati Cafe – Considered as one of the best restaurants in Varanasi, Niyati Cafe serves a variety of vegetarian food items. It is located in Dashashwamedh, Varanasi.
• Itihaas Alley Kitchen – Stop by Itihaas Alley Kitchen if you’re looking for scrumptious cuisines to try. North Indian, Chinese, Continental, Fast Food, you name it they have it all. It is located near Assi Ghat in Varanasi.

• Thatheri Bazar – One of the most popular markets of Varanasi that is renowned for the religious artifacts made of copper metal, Thatheri Bazar is also known for its iconic food joints. Varanasi offers a mix of various foods that you will only find in this city, some of which are peculiar winter delicacies & must-haves that should not be a miss when you are in this holy city. Thatheri Bazar lies close to the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple. The brass water pot, called 'kamandalam', is a popular item sold here.
• Vishwanath Lane – Vishwanath Lane is another favourite shopping place among others for all the shopping enthusiasts. Although this market is smaller compared to Godowlia Market but has a wide variety to satisfy its customers. From tailored and readymade fabrics to wooden handicrafts, you can find anything and everything over here.
• Godowlia Market – Godowlia is shopping paradise for all the shopaholics in Varanasi. It is one of the oldest local bazaars of the city. From Bhadohi carpets and Zari work to wooden carvings and fine silk fabrics, high-quality goods are sold at reasonable prices. Skilled craftsmen also sell their exquisite handicrafts that work as excellent decoration items.
• Rajan Silk Market – Rajan Silk Store has made a mark for its fine collection and variety of bananas sarees, stoles, dress decorative embroidery pieces, and dress materials. It was established 40 years ago and has ever since then been unstoppable.
• Dal Mandi Market – Located near the Nayi sadak and Godaulia, Dal Mandi Market is a very popular wholesale market in Varanasi. Dal Mandi is like a miniature Sarojini because there is nothing you can't find here, from clothing to candy to phone covers to silverware, it is one-stop place for all your needs.
• Chowk and Urban Hatt – The Chowk and Urban Haat in Varanasi is an interesting periodic market where local artisans are allowed to display their work. Brocade silk sarees, brass work items & jewellery are some of the best souvenirs you can take home from this market.
• Golghar – Golghar is the place to go to shop all your daily needs when in Varanasi. You can find everything in this market including brocade silk sarees, fabrics, items of daily use, metal items and much more.
• Banaras Art Gallery – Established in the year 1988, the Banaras Art Gallery was established to promote creative and indigenous works of tribal and urban artists in the city.

• JHV Mall – The JHV Mall in the beautiful city of Varanasi is a popular choice for shoppers. The three-storey shopping hub has multiple brands to shop from.
• Vinayak Plaza– Vinayak Plaza in Maldahiya, Varanasi is a top player in the category of Commercial Buildings. It offers a range of facilities in the complex. This well-known establishment serves as a one-stop shop for all your needs.
• PDR Mall – Located in Varanasi or Banaras, the PDR Mall & Multiplex is one of the most popular shopping malls. This mall is an entertainment zone for the residents of Varanasi as well as tourists.

The best time to visit Varanasi is during Winters between the months of November and February. The temperature during this season is breezy. The Summers in Varanasi experiences high and dry temperatures and does not make an ideal time to visit since they make outdoor sightseeing difficult. The Monsoons in Varanasi are pleasant with moderate to heavy rainfall.

• Varanasi is well connected by train, road as well as by air. It has two major railway stations, Varanasi Junction and the Mughal Sarai Junction. The city has its own airport with daily flights to Mumbai and Delhi. Buses are also available.
• Varanasi has an international airport, and though not many international flights arrive directly to Varanasi, almost all domestic airlines operate regular flights to and from this city. Jet Airways, Air India and Spice Jet operate the most frequent flights.
• The road connections to Varanasi are well maintained and convenient, and most tourists who travel to Uttar Pradesh usually club two or three nearby cities and commute between them by road. The distance to nearby cities like Allahabad, Kanpur and Gorakhpur are located within driving distance. National Highway 19 is the main connecting road.
• Varanasi is a major railway station and almost all trains passing through northern India go to Varanasi. The Mughal Sarai Junction is another major station that is 18 kilometres away from the main city and has trains coming in from cities all over India.