Sunrise and Sunset Aarti: There is a small aarti which is performed at the sunrise on the banks of the Ganga. Similar aarti is performed in the evening and it is a mesmerizing sight. One can see huge crowd gathered on the banks with people from all walks of life gathering for this ritual with ardent faith. The aarti is performed by the pundits in such a fashion that their movements are synchronised with each other. The lamp used to perform the aarti is seven layered and quite big. One must attend the ganga aarti and soak in the experience.
Ramnagar Fort: As the name suggest it was ancestral home to the Maharaja of Benaras which was originally built in the 17th Century. Though the fort is not maintained and is crumbling to pieces it offers a stunning view of the ghats over the sunset.
Banaras University: It is one of the oldest University across the world and it dates back to 1916, it had a excellent academic record. There is an museum by the name of Bharat Kala Bhavan which has good collection of paintings, manuscripts.
Sarnath: As mentioned earlier Varanasi was also a place where Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightment. It is one of the 4 important sites on Buddhist circuit.
Away from the hustle bustle of the city this place offers a breath of fresh air with the ruins of stupas, temples and monasteries. Dhamekh stupa and monastery is the place where Buddha gave his first sermon, there is also large Chaukhandi Stupa from the 5th century where Buddha met his first disciples which was later topped by a large Mughal tower, Mulgandha Kuti Vihar is the place where the Buddha’s first sermon is chanted daily at sunset.
Apart from this one can also visit the Akhada’s the Bull shop, arrange a meeting with the Facebook baba, Kashi Labh Mukti Bhavan, Saint Ravidas temple and Aghori Ashram.
FAAMOUS FOOD PLACES IN VARANASI
The tour of varanasi is incomplete without the savouring the delicaies and they will satiate your taste buds for sure !!.
The famous Kachori Sabzi which is available at the Ram Bhandar, Thateri Bazaar, Kachori Gali.
The Choora Matar, is available at Gopal Mandir Gali.
Dahi chutney Gol Gappe savor it at Deena Chaat Bhandar and Gol Ganj.
Bhatti Chokka available at Puran Das Road. The list is endess and the taste still titillates my taste bud!!! Kidding. But truly it is a delight for foodies and I can write a different different blog all together regarding the various dishes one can enjoy.
SHOPPPING IN VARANASI
The holy water of Ganga (Ganga Jal): The Ganga Jal is of utmost importance during the rituals for the Hindus. The belief that one can get rid of all the sins has given the water a supreme importance.
Banarasi Silks: One of the most adorned collection of an Indian women are Banarasi Silk, be it in the form of saree or dress material. It equally attracts the international tourist as well. I recommend you to go to peeli kothi or Thateri Bazaar area for the best prices at affordable rates.
Crystal and Stone Shivlinga: They come in various sizes and in crystal or stone. Shiva is one of the panchayatan gods need to be placed in every Indian house. Gulabi Minakari, is an art exclusive to the crafts men of Varanasi. They can be found near Gaighat various small souvenir can be purchased from here.
Other items are Wooden toys, Rudrasha Mala, Flutes, Indic Literatures, Bangles and other accessories. Hand Knotted carpets, Sweets etc.
Its my genuine attempt to capture the glory of Varansi in this blog however, I left Varanasi with deep reverence towards Lord Shiva and Hindu culture.
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