Formerly called Banaras, Varanasi is the holiest gem of India and one of the world's oldest inhabited cities. It is named after the two rivers, Varuna and Assi. It holds remarkable importance in Hindu mythology. Its deep-rooted traditions, cultures, and lifestyle attractions a massive number of tourists from around time immemorial. A Pilgrimage Tour India to Varanasi is a one-of-a-kind experience that will elevate your journey to self-discovery, the ultimate bliss.
The bright sunrise and sunsets, brimming waters of the holy Ganga, a morning boat ride along the ghats, and the soul-stirring mantras filling the air will leave you mesmerized. The sanctity and history of Varanasi have enthralled famous personalities like Mark Twain and religious seekers who seek salvation (moksha).
The banks of the gushing river Ganga are dotted with an endless number of ghats, temples, and shrines. It is believed that a holy dip in this river washes away sins. The centuries-old Ganga Aarti is performed daily at the Dashashwamedh ghat of this river. This ceremony is a holy ritual where a group of priests worships the river Ganga by chanting mantras, ringing the holy bells, and lighting oil lamps. This is the most sought-after highlight of the city that attracts hundreds of visitors every day.
The beauty of Varanasi is indescribable in words. This city is a treat for all the senses and its soothing aura will leave you spellbound. If pilgrimage travel in India is on your cards, we recommend booking a Varanasi trip with us to experience the real essence of India’s most treasured divine gem.
How to Reach Varanasi
The Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport is located in the north-western region of Varanasi. It also has a domestic airport that shares air connectivity with major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. If you wish to travel by train, the Varanasi railway station and the Kashi railway station share an extensive rail network with major cities around the country. You can opt for frequently run trains like the Kashi Vishwanath Express, Himgiri Express, Shiv Ganga Express, and Mahamana Express etcetera. The airports and railway stations are well-equipped with prepaid cabs/e-rickshaws. For travel by road, various local and private bus facility is easily available from Lucknow, Patna, Gorakhpur, and Ranchi
Major Places to Visit in Varanasi
- Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple- This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva who is believed to be the creator, protector, and transformer of the universe. It is an architectural marvel that houses one of the twelve Jyotirlingams (divine embodiment of Lord Shiva). Its massively gold-plated spire catches the eye of every visitor.
- Ghats - Ghats are the riverfront steps built along the banks of River Ganga. The city of Varanasi is an abode to more than eighty ghats. The most prominent ghats are Manikarnika, Dashashwamedh, Assi, Scindia, and Lalita. The best way to explore these ghats is on an early morning boat ride in Varanasi.
- Tulsi Manasa Temple -Varanasi is a top-ranked attraction in Pilgrimage Tour Packages India as this city of temples houses a vast trove of temples close to 3,000 in number. The Tulsi Manasa is also called the Tulsi Manasa Birla Mandir and is dedicated to Lord Rama. The temple’s walls are engraved with verses of Ramcharitra Manas, an epic poem written by the legendary 16th-century poet Tulsidas.
- Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple- This temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, who is believed to make you free from troubles. Lord Hanuman was an arduous devotee of Lord Rama and this is why the statue is placed facing the idol of Lord Rama. The evening aarti performed at this temple is a must experience.
- Sarnath- While Varanasi flaunts its immense treasure of Hindu temples, Sarnath is a prominent pilgrimage spot among Hindu, Jainism, and Buddhism devotees. This is the place where Lord Gautam Buddha (founder of Buddhism) delivered his first sermon post-enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree here. Chaukhandi Stupa, Dhameka Stupa, Ashoka Pillar, Bodhi Tree, and an Archaeological Museum are the most popular attractions.
Interesting Facts About Varanasi
“Varanasi is older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend and looks twice as old as put all of them together”, said Mark Twain.
- A few unheard names of Varanasi are Brahma Vardha, Sudarsana, Mahashamshana, and Ramya, etc.
- Built in 1916, the Banaras Hindu University is the largest in Asia (in terms of area).
- It is the birthplace of legendary Munshi Prem Chand, Tulsidas, Ustaad Bismillah Khan, and Pandit Ravi Shankar.
- The unique Ganga Aarti performed at dusk every day attracts thousands of visitors from around the world.
- It is regarded as the origin of Yoga and Ayurveda in the world.
Best Time to Visit Varanasi
If you are exploring our pilgrimage tours in India that includes Varanasi, we recommend you to plan a trip here during the winter months. During October till February, there is a cool breeze throughout the day and if the scorching heat doesn’t bother you, you can visit here during April and May. For a more culturally rich experience, plan a holiday here during the festival of Diwali as it is celebrated with great pomp and grandeur.
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