The world's oldest living city, Varanasi - also known as Kashi (City of Life) and Banaras. This city of Lord Shiva is also the spiritual capital of the country. It is among Hinduism's seven holy cities. The amazing old city of Varanasi stretched along the western banks of the River Ganga, spread across a labyrinth of narrow galis(streets). You will be walking a lot during your visit and will be encountering a cow now and then. There are temples at almost every turn that engulf Varanasi but the Historical Kashi Vishwanath Temple is the most prestigious of all. This historical city is also known as the city of Lord Shiva.
As per Hinduism, Varanasi is considered an auspicious place to live your final moments, as it is believed that one can attain moksha or liberation from this cycle of life and death. The heart of this holy city pulsates around its ghats, there are numerous of them and about 80 of which border the River Ganga. This might city is full of chaos all day long, but all that noise on the ghats takes a pause right before dusk the Ganga Aarti begins to take place. One of the top places to visit in Varanasi for couples is to take the blessing of the Ganga Aarti and be a part of it.
This city is not only famous for its religious side but also for its beautiful attractions. Some of the places to visit in Varanasi are Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Assi Ghat, Banaras Hindu University, and Chunar Fort. Manikarnika Ghat, Scindia Ghat, Ganga Mahal Ghat, Chet Singh Ghat, and Rewa Ghat alongside various other are ghats are also top tourist attractions in Varanasi.
Varanasi is also famous for its unique food culture, you can taste local food at some of the famous restaurants such as Baati Chokha Restaurant, Bollywood Adda, and Bollywood Adda.
Top Attractions-
Kashi Vishwanath Temple- It is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located in Vishwanath Gali of Varanasi, this temple stands on the western bank of the holy river Ganga and is one of the famous twelve Jyotirlingas, the holiest of Shiva temples in the country.
Tulsi Manasa Temple- This temple is dedicated to Lord Rama and is named after the saint-poet Tulsi Das, which was constructed in 1964. The Infamous Shikhara style of architecture and exhibits of various inscriptions from the Ram Charit Manas can be easily seen on the walls of the temple.
Banaras Hindu University- This formerly Central Hindu College, is a collegiate central university located in Varanasi. It was jointly established by Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya, the Maharaja of Darbhanga Rameshwar Singh, Maharaja of Banaras Prabhu Narayan Singh, Sunder Lal, and Annie Besant in the year 1916.
Tibetan Temple- This beautiful shrine showcases the stunning Tibetan Architecture, it is located at the very same place where Lord Buddha taught his disciples the four truths of life. This temple has a beautiful statue of Shakyamuni.
Alamgir Mosque- It is a 17th-century structure built by Mughal Emperor, Aurangzeb, on land that once had a large Lord Shiva Temple and was demolished by the emperor himself.
Ramnagar Fort- This historical marvel lies some 10km from the downtown of Varanasi city. This renowned historical site in Varanasi lies on the eastern bank of the River Ganges was constructed in the 17th century. There is a museum and a temple located in the fort complex that is worth a visit.
Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum- Being an archaeological and art museum, this museum exhibits a beautiful collection of sculptures, artifacts, paintings, jewelry, pottery, and textiles with many other items ranging between the 1st and the 15th century. The Museum houses over 100,000 artifacts.
Chunar Fort- Located on the little diversion between Varanasi and Prayagraj, this small fort has played a crucial and significant role in shaping the history of India. The fort is also called Tilismi Quila or Magical Fort because it was featured in the famous novel “Chandrakanta”.
St. Mary's church- This 200-year-old architectural marvel is the oldest church in the town and also the oldest standing garrison church in the whole of South Asia. It was established by Reverend George Wheatly in 1810.
Dashashwmedh Ghat- This one of the oldest and most famous ghats in Varanasi has served, and continues to serve, various purposes, especially spiritual. The famous Vishwanath Temple is located very close to the Dashashwmedh Ghat.
Assi Ghat- Placed at the confluence of the Rivers Assi and Ganga and this historic ghat is famous for the large Shiva Lingam installed under a peepal tree. It has very high religious importance and has been mentioned in the Puranas.