Top Tourist Places in Varanasi where past meets with present

 Varanasi, also known as Banaras or Kashi, is a city that holds a unique place in the heart of every Indian. Nestled on the banks of the sacred Ganges River in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh, Varanasi is a city of ancient traditions, spirituality, and mysticism. It is one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world and is a prominent destination for both domestic and international tourists. In this blog, we'll take you on a journey through some of the must-visit tourist places in Varanasi.

1. The Ghats: Varanasi is famous for its Ghats, a series of steps leading down to the Ganges River. There are more than 80 Ghats in the city, each with its own unique significance. Dashashwamedh Ghat is the most famous Tourist Places in Varanasi, known for its daily Ganga Aarti ceremony that attracts thousands of visitors. Manikarnika Ghat is where Hindu cremation ceremonies take place, offering a glimpse into the circle of life and death in Hinduism. Taking a boat ride along the Ghats during sunrise or sunset is a mesmerizing experience.

2. Kashi Vishwanath Temple: This ancient and revered temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the most sacred places for Hindus. The temple's gold-plated spire and intricate architecture are a sight to behold. Be prepared for long queues, as it's one of the most visited Tourist Places in Varanasi, but the spiritual experience is worth it.

3. Banaras Hindu University (BHU): BHU is not only a center of academic excellence but also a beautiful tourist spot. The sprawling campus houses the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, which displays a rich collection of art, sculptures, and historical artefacts. The university's serene surroundings make it a perfect place for a leisurely stroll.

4. Chunar Fort: Situated on the diversion between Prayagraj and Varanasi, Chunar fort is also known as Tilismi quila or the magical fort. It is also mentioned in the book “Chandrakanta” that it is open for visitors from Monday to Friday from 9 am to 5 pm.   

5. Tulsi Manas Temple: This modern temple is dedicated to Lord Rama and is known for its beautiful marble walls adorned with verses from the Ramayana. It's a tranquil spot for reflection and spirituality. This temple is a must visit Tourist Places in Varanasi if you have interest in the history of India.

6. Shopping in Varanasi: Don't forget to explore the bustling markets of Varanasi, especially the famous Vishwanath Gali and Godowlia Market. Here, you can shop for Banarasi silk sarees, exquisite handicrafts, and a variety of traditional items that make for perfect souvenirs.

Varanasi, with its rich cultural heritage and spiritual aura, is a destination like no other. There are more amazing tourist places in Varanasi which offer a unique blend of ancient traditions and contemporary life, making it an unforgettable experience for tourists. Whether you're seeking spiritual enlightenment, historical insights, or simply a glimpse into the vibrant tapestry of India, Varanasi has something to offer every traveller. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey to this timeless city, where the past meets the present on the banks of the sacred Ganges.

Journey Through Time and Spirit: Unveiling the Legacy of Tulsi Manas Mandir in Varanasi

The Tulsi Manas Mandir is a prominent Hindu temple located in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India. The temple is unique in that it is not just a place of worship but also a cultural and spiritual landmark for Hindu pilgrims since the ancient Hindu epic Ramcharitmanas was originally written here by Goswami Tulsidas.

History

The original Ramayan was written in the Sanskrit language by poet Valmiki in 100 BC. Because of the Sanskrit language, the masses were not able to understand it. So in the 16th century, Goswami Tulsidas wrote the Ramayan in the Awadhi dialect of the Hindi language and this version was called Ramcharitmanas. The temple gets its name "Tulsi Manas mandir" from Tulsidas and "manas" meaning mind, signifying the temple of the mind or intellect.

And In 1964, Tulsi manas mandir was constructed by the Thakur Das Sureka family of Bandhaghat in the same place

Location

Manas mandir is situated in the Tulsi Ghat area of Varanasi, along the banks of the holy river Ganges and 1.3 kilometers away from Banaras Hindu University(BHU).

visitors can book a cab or rikshaw from anywhere in Varanasi for reaching to this temple.

Architect details

There is an attractive Tulsi Garden on the right side of the entrance gate of Tulsi Manas mandir, which offers a very tranquil and clean setting, and on the left side, you will see a magnificent pond covered with four Ghats. And also you will see the statue of Tulsidas in the Tulsi Garden depicts the line "Tulsi Das Chandan ragane, tilak det Raghuvir.

There are numerous statues on each bank of the temple, each representing a different subject from the Hindu Epics. Shri Ashutosh Shankar (Lord Shiva) featured at the eastern ghat, and at the western bank you will see a statue of  Goswami Tulsidas Ji. The temple is full of  statues of all the Gods and Goddesses mentioned in the Hindu epic. You will see a variety of Chaupayees, Dohas, Chhandas, and Sorathas scripted on the wall of the temple. And on the second floor, you will see some statues and scenes from Epics the Ramayana and Mahabharata.

Events 

The temple sees increased activity during Hindu festivals and important occasions related to Lord Rama, such as Rama Navami.

Overall, the Tulsi Manas Mandir is not only a place of worship but also an important cultural and historical site in Varanasi. It showcases the enduring influence of the Ramayana and the teachings of Lord Rama in the hearts and minds of people.

Interesting Facts about Tulsi Manas Mandir

INTRODUCTION

The Tulsi Manas Mandir is a popular tourist attraction. Dedicated to the God Ram, this shrine is called "The Temple of Lord Ram." In the 16th century, Goswami Tulsi das penned the Ramcharitmanas here. The Awadhi rendition of the epic Ramayan is Ramcharitmanas. The temple's marble structure and verdant landscaping make it a popular tourist attraction.

As one stroll through the beautiful green gardens of Tulsi Manas Temple, one is greeted by the temple's pearly white exterior. The marble building of this temple, built-in in 1964 by the Thakur Surekha Das family, is famed for its fascinating architecture. One of the most revered religious sites in Varanasi, this temple is believed to have been where the ancient poet Tulsidas sat to write the holy epic of Ramcharitmanas.

History of Tulsi Manas Mandir

Sanskrit manuscripts of the epic Ramayana were penned between 100 and 50 BC. It was difficult for everyone to read this epic because of its complex language. He rewrote the epic in the Awadhi language in the sixteenth century. The poet's memory inspired the construction of the temple. Tulsi das changed the way people viewed Lord Ram from merely an outstanding ruler to something much more. The walls of the temple are adorned with several depictions of the epic. 

Shri Tulsi Manas Mandir Haridwar wrote on the temple's main gate. You may find a peaceful and tranquil Tulsi Garden situated just to the right of the main entrance gate. The verse "Tulsi Das Chandan again, tilak get Raghuvir" is shown in the Tulsi Garden by a statue of Tulsidas. A lovely pond with four Ghats is found to the main temple's left. One of the temple's most striking features is the various statues on display. It has statues of Shri Kakbhushundi Ji on the northern ghat, Yagywalka ji Maharaj on the southern bank, Ashutosh Shankar on the eastern ghat, and Goswami Tulsidas Ji on the western bank. The Ram Darbar, which houses Shiva and Mata Parvati, is located at the temple's heart. The temple has a statue of every God and goddess from the Hindu epic. Chaupayees, Dohas, Chhandas, and Sorathas, adorn the temple's exterior wall. The major Hindu epics of the Ramayana and Mahabharata are on the temple's second floor. Tulsidas, a 16th-century Indian saint, is the inspiration for the temple's name.

Where is Tulsi Manas Mandir located in Varanasi?

Durga Temple at Varanasi's Durgakund is not far from Tulsi Manas Mandir. You can visit the temple easily from various locations in the city. The train station is 7 kilometers away, while Banaras Hindu University is 2 kilometers away (BHU).

What is the best time to visit Tulsi Manas Mandir?

Throughout the year, the temple's splendor is undiminished. In the winter, the weather is beautiful, making it a great time to come. Open at 5:30 am and closing at noon, the temple is also open from 3:00 pm to 9:00 pm on weekdays. 6 am and 4 pm are the best times to see rituals in action. You'll find many festivals and unusual ceremonies if you visit the temple during Sawan Mela in July/August.

What is it about Tulsi Manas Mandir that makes it so well-known?

It's a two-story structure. You can find Tulsi gardens right outside the main gate. A temple pond with four Ghats to the left of the entrance. Each Ghat is adorned with a statue from the story. The walls of the temple's second floor are decorated with scenes from the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. We can find many figures in this area. The white marble was used to construct the temple. Decorative elements are prominent in the structure's design. Tulsi Manas Mandir commemorates the beautiful voyage of Lord Rama and his wife, Goddess Sita, and represents the beauty and simplicity of Hinduism. Murals depicting scenes from Ramayan decorate the inner walls. Local performers use puppets to recount stories from the Ramcharitmanas at auspicious festivals. The Tulsi Manas Mandir Temple in Varanasi has both historical and cultural significance. Here in Kashi, Goswami Tulsidas penned the ancient Hindu epic Ramcharitamanasa. He had written an epic about the life of Lord Rama and quickly became a household name. In the eyes of his subjects, Lord Rama was an excellent ruler who constantly set a perfect example. Tulsi Manas Mandir was established there many years later. The Hindu deity Lord Rama has referred King Rama in the Ramcharitamanasa.