Varanasi Benares in India: Explore History and Things to do

Varanasi, also known as Benaras or Kashi, is one of the oldest living cities in the world, steeped in rich history and Hindu mythology. Mark Twain once remarked, “Benaras is older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend and looks twice as old as all of them put together.” Varanasi Benares in India

Significance of Varanasi

• Pilgrimage Spot: Varanasi is a sacred place for Hindus, who believe that dying here grants salvation and freedom from the cycle of birth and rebirth. Varanasi Benares in India
• Abode of Lord Shiva: This city is revered as the home of Lord Shiva and Parvati. The Ganges River in Varanasi is thought to have the power to wash away sins.

Historical and Cultural Heritage

• Center of Learning: Varanasi has been a hub of knowledge and civilization for over 3,000 years. It symbolizes the Hindu renaissance, especially with nearby Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon.
• Diverse Religions: The city is not only significant for Hindus but is also a pilgrimage site for Jains, being the birthplace of Parsvanath, the twenty-third Tirthankar.

Arts and Literature

• Cultural Capital of India: Known for promoting spiritualism, mysticism, and the Hindi language, Varanasi has produced renowned figures in literature and arts, including the famous novelist Prem Chand and poet Tulsi Das, who wrote the Ram Charit Manas.
• Music and Dance: Varanasi is home to celebrated musicians like Ravi Shankar, the sitar maestro, and Ustad Bismillah Khan, the famed shehnai player. Varanasi Benares in India

Education and Sciences

• Theosophical Society: Mrs. Annie Besant established the Theosophical Society in Varanasi, and Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya founded Benares Hindu University, the largest university in Asia.
• Ayurveda and Yoga: Varanasi is considered the birthplace of Ayurveda, influencing modern medical practices, including plastic surgery and cataract operations. Maharshi Patanjali, a key figure in Ayurveda and yoga, is associated with the city.

Trade and Commerce

• • Silk and Brocades: Varanasi is famous for its high-quality silks and gold and silver brocades, a tradition that dates back centuries. Varanasi Benares in India

“Older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend, and looks twice as old as all of them put together.” – Mark Twain

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Brief History of Varanasi

The name Varanasi (also known as Benares) is derived from the two tributaries of the Ganges River—Varuna and Asi—between which the city is situated. Historically known as Kashi, meaning “brightness,” Varanasi is often referred to as the “City of Light.” According to Hindu tradition, it is considered the oldest city in the world and the eternal city of Shiva.

The city was likely settled by the Aryans during the early part of the 1st millennium BCE (1000-750 BCE), making it younger than the ancient Harappan civilization (2300-1000 BCE) along the Indus River Valley.

Discovering Varanasi: The Heartbeat of India

Varanasi, also known as Benares, Banaras, or Kashi, is the most sacred city for Hindus and one of the oldest living cities in the world, with roots dating back to 2000 BCE.

Revered as the holiest of the seven sacred cities in Hinduism, it is believed that dying here liberates one from the cycle of reincarnation. For those unable to pass away in Varanasi, immersing ashes in the Ganges River offers a path to salvation.

While many say Varanasi is the end of the journey, I believe it’s the perfect starting point for exploring India. It provides deep insights into the country’s caste system, Hindu beliefs, and customs. Here are some key experiences to enjoy in this spiritually rich city.

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The Ganges River

“The Ganga is the river of India, beloved of her people… a symbol of India’s age-long culture and civilization.”
— Jawaharlal Nehru

The Ganges, or Ganga, is revered as India’s ‘mother river.’ Originating in the Himalayas, it flows through northeast India and into Bangladesh. This sacred river is considered a living goddess, and bathing in its waters—especially on auspicious days—is believed to wash away ten lifetimes of sins. The Ganges nourishes millions and is central to India’s civilization.

Vishwanath Temple

The Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is the most famous temple in Varanasi. Originally built in 1776, its stunning golden architecture draws many pilgrims. Visitors must leave bags, cameras, and phones outside, so it’s wise to secure your belongings at your hotel. A visit here, combined with a bath in the Ganges, is thought to absolve sins.

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The Ghats of Varanasi

The ghats—stepped embankments along the Ganges—are vibrant with life, showcasing the cycle of birth and death. Here, you’ll witness daily activities: bathing, washing clothes, and performing cremation rituals. There are 88 ghats in total, each with its own unique character.

• • • Manikarnika Ghat: This is the main cremation ghat, believed to facilitate moksha (liberation). Bodies are cremated here by doms, a community tasked with maintaining the eternal flames.
    • Dashashwamedh Ghat: Known for its nightly agni puja, a fire offering ceremony at 7 p.m., this colorful ghat is the closest to Vishwanath Temple. It’s a stunning experience, filled with rituals honoring Lord Shiva and the Ganges.

Get Lost in the Streets

Wandering through Varanasi’s maze-like streets is a must. The labyrinthine paths often lead to the ghats, allowing you to soak in the city’s unique atmosphere—no map required.

Silk Shopping Varanasi Benares in India

Varanasi is renowned for its exquisite silk. The experience of shopping here is a cultural ritual filled with color and flair. Engage with local merchants, enjoy a cup of tea, and immerse yourself in the art of silk shopping.

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Sarnath: The Birth Place of Buddhism

Just 13 kilometers (8 miles) northeast lies Sarnath, where Gautama Buddha delivered his first sermon around 528 BCE. Here, you can explore ancient stupas and an impressive 80-foot statue of the Buddha. This pilgrimage site features temples from various countries, including China and Japan, making it a significant stop for visitors.

Yoga Classes Varanasi Benares in India

Practicing yoga in the birthplace of the discipline is a unique experience. Join a traditional class—perhaps at sunrise—led by local instructors like Smrti, who come from a family of yoga teachers.

Sunrise on the Ganges River

In Varanasi, life and death are intertwined, with rituals reflecting the cyclical nature of existence. The city is uniquely positioned on the west bank of the Ganges, symbolizing death, while facing east, representing rebirth and new life. This layout creates stunning morning light, making a sunrise boat ride a highlight of any visit.

Early risers can enjoy breathtaking views of ritual bathers performing puja (worship) against the backdrop of an orange-hued sky.

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The Cremation Ghats in Varanasi

The ghats are stone steps that lead down to the Ganges, with over 100 individual ghats lining the river’s edge. These steps provide access to the river throughout different seasons. As the most sacred city in Hinduism, many Hindus aspire to die and be cremated here, with ashes scattered in the holy river.

The cremation fires burn 24/7, with Manikarnika Ghat being the primary cremation site. The firewood used varies by status, with mango wood for common people and sandalwood for the wealthy. Approximately double the body weight in firewood is required for a typical three-hour cremation. Due to the sensitive nature of the ceremonies, photography is not permitted.

Ceremonies at Dashaswamedh Ghat

At sunset, ceremonies take place at the main ghat, Dashaswamedh Ghat. Each evening, multiple rituals begin as the sun sets, featuring bell-ringing to ward off evil spirits and the offering of seven elaborate gifts of light to the river. The ceremony concludes with floating candles and pouring water into the Ganges, creating a memorable and spiritual experience.

Street Food in Varanasi

Varanasi is not just a spiritual hub but also a treasure trove of flavors. Here are some must-try dishes that capture the essence of the city’s rich culinary heritage.

Baati Chokha

A traditional meal celebrated across Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, baati chokha features balls of unleavened bread known as baati, typically stuffed with lentils, onions, peas, or sattu (powdered roasted gram). These are baked over wood fires and served with chokha, a mix of roasted potato, tomato, and aubergine.

Historically, Baati was favored by freedom fighters like Tantia Tope and Rani Laxmi Bai for its simplicity and nutritional value. It requires little water to prepare and can be baked without utensils, making it an ideal travel meal.

Lassi Varanasi Benares in India

To end a typical Varanasi breakfast, nothing beats a refreshing lassi. This yogurt-based drink is traditionally served in a kullhad (earthen glass) and topped with a thick layer of cream. Often flavored with rose water and garnished with cardamom, lassi is a delightful treat. For a unique experience, try bhaang, a cannabis-infused milk drink, particularly popular during the Maha Shivratri festival.

Kachori Varanasi Benares in India

Kachoris are a beloved spicy snack in north India, especially in Varanasi. These round, flattened balls of fine flour are filled with a mixture of lentils and spices. Best enjoyed hot and crispy, kachoris are typically served with spicy chutney. A must-visit spot for kachoris is Kachori Gali, located near the Vishwanath Mandir.

Chaat Varanasi Benares in India

Originating in Uttar Pradesh, chaat is a savory snack that comes in various forms across India. Varanasi boasts a diverse range of chaats, featuring ingredients like chopped tomatoes, crispy fried spinach, curd, sev (fried gram flour strips), and both sweet tamarind and spicy green chutneys. Each vendor has their own unique twist, making it a delightful adventure to try different varieties.

Banarasi Paan Varanasi Benares in India

No visit to Varanasi is complete without indulging in the famous Banarasi paan. This iconic treat is made by rolling betel leaves with areca nut and various condiments, creating a flavor explosion in every bite. The preparation of Banarasi paan is an art form in itself.

Betel leaves are meticulously cleaned, and the betel nuts are soaked to enhance their flavor. The process involves several steps, including soaking kattha (a food additive) in milk and pressing it to remove astringency.

The result is a visually stunning and delicious paan that encapsulates the culinary artistry of Varanasi.

Exploring the important Ghats of Varanasi

Varanasi’s ghats are not just steps leading to the Ganges; they are vibrant spaces steeped in spirituality, rituals, and history. Here are some of the most significant ghats you must visit:

Assi Ghat Varanasi Benares in India

Assi Ghat is one of the largest and southernmost ghats in Varanasi, where the Ganges meets the Assi River. This ghat is notable for its spiritual significance, featuring a lingam of Lord Shiva beneath a peepal tree, drawing devotees for worship.

The evening arti (fire ritual) at Assi is a mesmerizing spectacle, characterized by chanting mantras, conch shells blowing, and a palpable spiritual energy. It’s also a great starting point for boating rides and yoga sessions in the early morning.

Legend says that Goddess Durga threw her sword into the Assi River after defeating demons, lending the ghat its name. It’s especially bustling during the months of chaitya (March/April) and magh (January/February), as well as during significant celestial events.

Dashashwamedh Ghat

Dashashwamedh Ghat is one of the oldest and most sacred ghats, famous for its spectacular Ganga Arti that occurs every evening. This elaborate ceremony features priests in traditional attire performing rituals with brass lamps, accompanied by the sounds of conch shells, bells, and the chanting of mantras.

The name “Dashashwamedh” translates to the place where Lord Brahma sacrificed ten horses, and the ghat has historical roots, having been reconstructed by notable figures like Bajirao Peshwa I in 1740 AD and later by Ahilyabai Holkar in 1774. The visual of countless floating diyas in the Ganges at dusk is truly unforgettable.

Harish Chandra Ghat

Harish Chandra Ghat, also known as Adi Manikarnika, is one of the two primary cremation ghats in Varanasi. Smaller than Manikarnika, it holds significant importance as many believe cremation here leads to moksha (liberation).

Named after the mythological king Harish Chandra, who exemplified truth and charity, this ghat has a modern electric crematorium established in the 1980s. Its historical and mythological connections make it a poignant place for those seeking to honor their loved ones.

Manikarnika Ghat

Considered the most auspicious cremation ghat, Manikarnika Ghat lies between Dashashwamedh Ghat and Scindia Ghat. It’s steeped in legend, with tales of Lord Vishnu digging a pond for Lord Shiva and Goddess Shakti to bathe, and a footprint left by Vishnu during his meditation.

The ghat features the famous Manikarnika well, linked to the story of Goddess Parvati’s lost earring. This ghat has been referenced in literature as far back as the 5th century and is deeply entwined with stories of divine love and cosmic events.