Varanasi or the city of lights is famous for the vibrancy and the spirituality of the place. If you are seeking solace and peace somewhere in this world, Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh is the right place for you to visit. The city is praised for its Ghats and the magnificent beauty of the Ganges. You shall be taken aback by the soul-enriching experience at Varanasi Ghats with the temples and buildings of worship in the background. Look nowhere and head straight to the 2800-year-old city of India this vacation and seek comfort for your heart which is tormented by the hustle in life. Let us show you around a couple of places in Varanasi that you may like to have a look at when you head to the town.
1. The Ganges
The river Ganga flowing across the land of Varanasi is one of the most sacred rivers of the Hindus. It is named after the Goddess Ganga and believed that she flows from the crown of Shiva. Extending from the Himalayas to the Bay of Bengal, the river offers magnificent beauty to the town of Varanasi. You may take an early morning walk along the river or watch the sunrise. Sitting at the banks of the river is simply enough to establish a peaceful ambience. You can also opt for a boat ride and explore the brilliance of the town. In the evening there is an option for you to purchase a holy offering of flowers and candles and allow it to flow in the river. This act is considered extremely sacred and you can pray to God for all the things you desire in life.
2. Dasaswamedh Ghat
The Dasaswamedh Ghat is one of the most sprightly places in Varanasi where you shall spot the peddlers, the hawkers, and the priests with painted faces all at the same time. The Ghat is crowded with tourists opting to buy the holy trinkets and indulging in the beauty of the place. You can simply take a seat next to the river and observe everyone going about their day on the busy Ghats. In the evening the orange-robed priests come to the Ghat and offer the holy petals to the Ganges. The tourists are also allowed to offer their prayers. The Dasaswamedh Ghat is the life of the city and almost always throbbing with the same spirit throughout the year.
3. Assi Ghat
Heading to Varanasi you shall observe that the Assi Ghat is the most popular place in the town of Varanasi. The pilgrims are interested to visit this Ghat because of the holy Shiva Lingam found in this region. The tourists crowd this area to seek blessings and offer prayers at the Holy Shrine of Shiva. The Ganga Arti is something that must be witnessed at the Ghats. If you are tired of the journey and the trip, here is the place you may rest and watch the sunset and the reflection of myriad hues in the river water. Morning yoga is also practised here along with the pujas offered at this place.
4. The Manikarnika Ghat
The importance of Manikarnika Ghat comes from the hundreds of cremation that are conducted here every day. This place is considered the most sacred place on earth to depart from the world and attain moksha. The smoke from the pyre is constantly emitted in this Ghat and sometimes the tourists take a boat ride about the Ghat to observe the cremation process from a close view and pay respect to the departed souls. The Ghat represents the mournful picture of Varanasi and although it is highly significant to the Hindus, the sight is not much appealing. Keep your distance from the Ghat or just take a boat ride to pay your respect and offer prayers for the departed.
5. The Dhamek Statue
Not far away from Varanasi is the Sarnath region about 12km from the main city. The Buddhist Stupa or the Dhamek Statue is a piece of artwork praised by tourists as they head out to watch the glorifying past of the Buddhist religion. Extending in length up to 43.6m and 12m in diameter, this massive mass of stone pillar is an excellent example of the Buddist culture. The tourists visit this 1500-year-old stupa which was erected to commemorate the visit of Budha after he attained enlightenment. Here he gave this first sermon and revealed the idea of eightfold paths. Devotees all around the world are spotted observing the glory of the stupa in the carvings and beautiful artwork of birds, trees, and other pictures engraved on the walls of the stupa. Chaukhandi Stupa and the Sarnath Museum are famous spots in the town which are visited by travelers all across the world. The Ashoka Pillar is another attraction of the place.