Varanasi can be a starting point. Historically and religiously known as Kashi (sometimes spelled Kasi), the name comes from Sanskrit, meaning “the luminous one” or “city of light.” It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and holds immense spiritual significance, especially in Hinduism, as a center for pilgrimage and rituals along the Ganges River.
Thousands of people from all walks of life visit Varanasi, including Westerners drawn to its cultural and spiritual significance. As one of the major cities in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, Varanasi is a large urban center important to Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains. Despite its size, it retains the charm of traditional towns, with narrow lanes along the Ganges. It is also among the top destinations (BEST THINGS TO DO IN HOKKAIDO, JAPAN) when considering things to do in Varanasi.
The main and most famous temple in Varanasi is the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, also known as the Golden Temple. It is renowned worldwide, in part for its location on the western bank of the Ganges River, and draws countless devotees and visitors, making it one of the top things in Varanasi.
Built in 1780, the temple is dedicated to Lord
Shiva and is a key stop on the Varanasi Heritage Walk. It is one of the most
revered temples in Hinduism, with origins believed to date back thousands of
years. Over time, it faced multiple destructions and reconstructions, most
notably by Mughal rulers, and was rebuilt in the 18th century by Maharani
Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore.
According to legend, the city of Kashi is
eternal, and the Jyotirlinga of Shiva in this temple is said to grant moksha,
or liberation from the cycle of life and death, to devotees.
Must-Do Things in Varanasi - Kashi
Vishwanath Temple
Daily Prayers
The temple can be visited from 4:00 AM to 11:00 PM, with specific times for
morning and evening aarti (prayers). Being part of these prayers is a deeply
moving experience, especially for those who connect spiritually while praying.
Specific prayers can also be conducted for individuals, which require
purchasing offerings for the locals. Arrangements can be made for offering
prayers to ancestors, usually in the early hours of the morning, and these also
involve a fee.
Burning of Bodies
The traditional cremation (burning of bodies) continues along the ghats of the
Ganges, especially Manikarnika Ghat and Harishchandra Ghat. While cremations
happen almost 24 hours a day, they mostly take place in the evening and night.
It is a solemn sight and not for the faint-hearted; observing from a distance
is recommended.
(Night aarti/prayer,
Night Aarti
One of the most memorable experiences in Varanasi is the night aarti. Visitors
can take a boat along the river to watch the prayers from the banks. The glow
of lamps, the ringing of bells, and the chanting of hymns make the night aarti
deeply moving and spiritually touching.
Bathing in the Ganges River
Bathing in the Ganges is not allowed during night hours or during night
prayers. It is best done in the early morning or before sunset. Bathing or
dipping in the river is considered a sacred act, believed to purify the soul
and wash away sins. Hindus also believe that it helps in attaining moksha, or
liberation from the cycle of life and death, making it one of the most
important religious practices along the Ganges.
Varanasi Boat Ride
During the daytime, after visiting Kashi Vishwanath Temple, whether to offer
prayers, bathe in the Ganges, or take the Varanasi Heritage Walk, another attraction
is the Varanasi boat ride. The boat moves along the river, providing a closer
view of the ghats and the surrounding areas. The ride then continues along the Ganges,
for visiting other important temples in Varanasi.
(Shri Durga Temple, Varanasi, India)
Shri Durga Temple
Also known as Durga Kund Mandir, Shri
Durga Temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga. Built in the 18th century by a
Bengali Maharani, the temple is notable for its striking red color and North
Indian Nagara-style architecture. The complex features a large rectangular
tank, known as Durga Kund, which is considered sacred by devotees.
Navaratri is one of the busiest times to visit. The temple is relatively small, and a visit usually takes around 20 minutes, but the spiritual presence of Durga Ma can be strongly felt. The red color of the temple symbolizes power and energy (Shakti), central to the worship of Goddess Durga. The narrow walkway leading to the temple is lined with shops and stalls selling a variety of local produce.
Located near Meer Ghat, the Vishalakshi Temple, also known as Vishalakshi Gauri Temple, is dedicated to Goddess Vishalakshi, an incarnation of Goddess Parvati. She is considered the divine consort of Lord Shiva in Varanasi, making the temple an important site for seeking blessings for marital harmony, family well-being, and spiritual growth.
The temple is reached by climbing a stone
staircase, which adds to the sense of devotion and pilgrimage. Being one of the
Shakti Peethas of Varanasi, it holds immense religious significance, attracting
pilgrims from across India who come to honor Goddess Vishalakshi and seek her
divine blessings.
Also known as the New Vishwanath Temple, Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple is a significant religious and architectural landmark in Varanasi. It is located within the Banaras Hindu University (BHU) campus, one of India’s largest and most prestigious universities, founded in 1916 by Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya.
Banaras Hindu Temple was inspired by the original Kashi Vishwanath Temple and commissioned to bring a modern version of this sacred site within the university grounds.
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is
known for its stunning marble architecture, tall spire, and serene atmosphere.
From the main gate, a garden-lined path leads into Vishwanath Temple complex. Inside, there are
several smaller shrines along with the main altar. Priests are available for
paid prayer services, or locals can offer their own prayers.
Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple attracts thousands, including locals traveling from other parts of India, reflecting the country’s strong spiritual tradition. Its location within BHU adds special significance, as it combines education, culture, and devotion in one place, honoring the vision of the university’s founder.
As one of the most important temples in Varanasi, Vishwanath Temple is a must-see site and a key stop for anyone looking for things to do in Varanasi.
