Ramnagar Fort, dating back to the 17th century, stands by the Assi Ghat in Varanasi. A royal residence for 400+ years, it's now weathered but captivating. Adorned with ornate swords and mementos of past glory, the Durbar Hall is a museum showcasing palanquins and elephant howdahs.
South of Vishwanath Temple lies Banaras Hindu University, founded by scholar Madan Mohan Malviya. The campus houses Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, known for 12,000 Indian paintings spanning 11th to 20th century. Notable exhibits include Mughal miniatures, sculptures like Shiva-Parvati's marriage, 11th century Vishnu statue, and Gandhara sculptures.
Assi Ghat, where Ganges meets Assi River, stands at the southern end of the main ghats. Less crowded but significant for Hindus. Pilgrims bathe before worshiping the Shiva lingam. Nearby, good cafes like Vaatika Cafe offer pasta and pizza. Popular among long-staying travelers. Dasaswamedh Ghat is a 30-minute walk along the ghats.
Bharat Mata Temple in Varanasi, at Kashi Vidyapeeth, honors Mother India. Built by Babu Shiv Prasad Gupt, inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi in 1936. Marble statue symbolizes India's geography - mountains, plains, and oceans, depicted as a model. Unique with a real map of India, no traditional deity statues.
Kabir Saheb preached unity in humanity, seeing God in all. Serve, renounce terrorism, embrace love, kindness, humility, and truthfulness. His teachings inspired travels to diverse places.
Man Mandir Ghat: Rajput palace, 1600s. Observatory added 1730s by Sawai Jai Singh II. Antique astronomical instruments. Great Ganges views from the terrace.
Manikarnika Ghat: Varanasi's main cremation site. Hindus seek liberation here from the cycle of rebirth. A confronting view of death, with continuous fires and bodies brought for cremation. Doms manage the process. Curious visitors can observe, guided by priests or locals, with some bargaining for fees.
Harish Chandra Ghat: Named after the truth-centric King Harish Chandra. Among Varanasi's oldest cremation sites, alongside Manikarnika Ghat. Hindus believe cremation here leads to salvation. Modernized in the late 1980s with an electric crematorium.
Dasaswamedh Ghat: Vibrant spot on the Ganges in Varanasi. Famous for daily Ganga Aarti, a spiritual and cultural hub. Pilgrims and tourists gather for mesmerizing rituals. Offers boat rides and breathtaking river views. Immersed in Hindu mythology, rich in tradition and spirituality.
Tulsi Ghat: Named after poet Tulsidas, author of Ramcharitramanas. Linked to Ramlila's origins and Lord Rama's tale. Lord Rama temple adds to its significance. Hub of cultural events, including the notable Krishnalila in Kartika. A vibrant spiritual and cultural center along the sacred river.
Tulasi Manas Temple: Modern marvel, a testament to family devotion, dedicated to Lord Rama. Tulsidas composed "Shri Ramcharitmanas" here, verses from the epic adorn the walls. Nearby Sankatmochan Temple, an ancient shrine by Goswami Tulsidas, honors Lord Hanuman, the 'Sankatmochak.' Pilgrims seek solace and blessings here.
Sankat Mochan Temple: Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, alleviator of suffering. Founded by Tulsidas, author of Ramacharitamanasa. Popular on Tuesdays and Saturdays, especially for Saturn's malefic effects relief. Devotees offer Sindoor and laddoos, receiving the Sindoor as a blessing.
Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, also known as the Golden Temple. Built in 1780 by Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar. Gold on domes donated by Sikh Maharaja Ranjit Singh. Uttar Pradesh government's ownership since January 28, 1983, managed by Dr. Vibhuti Narayan Singh and later Kashi Naresh.
Durga Temple in Varanasi is dedicated to Goddess Durga. It's known for its red color and vibrant aura. Devotees seek blessings and witness the splendid Aarti ceremony. The temple's architecture and spiritual ambiance attract visitors worldwide.
The New Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi is a sacred Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. Also known as the Birla Temple, it's a marvel of white marble architecture. Visitors admire intricate carvings and serene surroundings. Devotees offer prayers and witness the Ganga Aarti. This temple symbolizes devotion and spirituality, drawing people from all walks of life.
The Kaal Bhairav Temple in Varanasi is dedicated to Lord Bhairav, a fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva. It's known for its black idol and a unique offering of liquor. Devotees visit seeking protection and swift justice. The temple's aura is intense, with rituals adding to its mystique. Visitors experience a blend of spirituality and reverence at this ancient shrine.
Sarnath, near Varanasi, is a sacred Buddhist site where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon. It boasts the Dhamek Stupa and ancient ruins. Visitors explore the Sarnath Museum to see relics. The peaceful ambiance invites meditation and reflection. A place of historical and spiritual significance, Sarnath is a must-visit destination.