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.

Discovering the Charms of Hotels in Varanasi

 As pilgrims and travelers flock to the Varanasi, mystical destination, they are greeted by an array of luxurious hotels in Varanasi that offer a perfect blend of comfort and cultural immersion. Let's embark on a journey to explore the captivating charms of hotels in Varanasi.

1. TAJ NADESAR PALACE

2. TAJ GANGES

3. BRIJRAMA PALACE

4. RAMADA PLAZA JHV

5. RADISSON HOTEL

These hotels offer a fusion of contemporary design and essential amenities for the modern traveler. Perfect for those who wish to explore the city's vibrant streets while enjoying stylish.

Temples in Varanasi: A Spiritual Sojourn Amidst Divine Splendor

 Varanasi, the spiritual capital of India, is home to a multitude of temples that form an integral part of its rich cultural heritage. Embark on a sacred journey as you explore these enchanting abodes of divinity, each exuding its unique charm and significance. From the revered Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, to the serene Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, where devotees seek solace, each temple offers a glimpse into the deep-rooted beliefs and rituals of this ancient city. Whether you seek divine blessings or wish to immerse yourself in the cultural tapestry of India, the temples of Varanasi beckon with open arms. Prepare to be touched by the profound spirituality and unwavering faith that surround these temples, leaving you with an indelible mark on your spiritual journey.

For more details visit: - https://kashibanaras.com/new-vishwanath-temple-bhu/

Unveiling the Mystical Charm: Discover the Top Tourist Places in Varanasi

 Discover the enchanting allure of Varanasi as we unveil its top tourist places. Immerse yourself in spirituality, history, and cultural splendour. Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Banaras, is a city that exudes spirituality, ancient traditions, and a rich cultural heritage. Situated on the banks of the sacred River Ganges in Uttar Pradesh, India, Varanasi is regarded as one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world. Beyond its religious significance, this enchanting city offers many tourist attractions that captivate visitors from all walks of life.

In this article, we will embark on a journey to uncover the top tourist places in Varanasi, delving into the rich tapestry of history, spirituality, and cultural splendour that makes this city a must-visit destination.

1. The Ghats of Varanasi

The Ghats of Varanasi are undoubtedly the iconic landmarks of the city. These stepped embankments lining the river Ganges are a visual spectacle, offering a mesmerizing blend of devotion, spirituality, and everyday life. There are over 80 Ghats in Varanasi, each with its unique significance. Dashashwamedh Ghat is one of the most popular, known for its grand Ganga Aarti ceremony, where priests perform rituals and prayers accompanied by music and incense.

 

2. Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the holiest temples in Hinduism and an important pilgrimage site. With its intricate architecture and spiritual aura, the temple attracts millions of devotees every year. The main deity, Lord Vishwanath, is believed to be the ruler of the universe, and visiting this temple is considered highly auspicious.

3. Sarnath

Located just a few kilometres from Varanasi, Sarnath holds immense historical and religious importance. It is the place where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermo after attaining enlightenment. This tranquil site is home to several ancient Buddhist stupas, monasteries, and museums that provide a glimpse into the life and teachings of Buddha. The Dhamek Stupa, dating back to the 5th century, is a remarkable architectural marvel and a focal point of Sarnath.

4. Ramnagar Fort

Situated on the eastern bank of the River Ganges, Ramnagar Fort is a majestic structure that stands as a testament to the royal heritage of Varanasi. Built in the 18th century, this sprawling fort blends Mughal and Hindu architectural styles. It houses a museum showcasing vintage cars, antique weapons, and a fascinating collection of manuscripts. The fort also serves as the residence of the royal family of Varanasi, who actively participate in the vibrant Ram Leela celebrations during the Hindu festival of Navratri.

5. Banaras Hindu University

Banaras Hindu University (BHU) is a premier educational institution and a prominent tourist attraction in Varanasi. Spread across a vast campus, BHU boasts stunning architecture, lush gardens, and numerous temples. The Bharat Kala Bhavan museum within the university showcases a vast collection of artefacts, paintings, and sculptures, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of India. The Vishwanath Temple within the BHU campus is a miniature replica of the main Kashi Vishwanath Temple and attracts devotees and visitors alike.

6. Gyanvapi Mosque

Standing adjacent to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is the Gyanvapi Mosque, a significant historical and architectural marvel. Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb constructed the mosque in the 17th century, and its grandeur is awe-inspiring. The unique feature of the mosque is the presence of Hindu architectural elements integrated into its structure, reflecting the religious harmony that prevails in Varanasi. Visitors can witness the architectural fusion while exploring the mosque and experiencing the coexistence of different faiths.

 

7. Benaras Hindu University Art Gallery

For art enthusiasts, the Benaras Hindu University Art Gallery is a treasure trove of creativity. The gallery houses an extensive collection of paintings, sculptures, and artefact from different periods of history. From ancient Indian art to contemporary works, the gallery offers a comprehensive visual journey through time. The artworks depict various themes, including mythology, religion, and social issues, showcasing the artistic prowess of Indian artists.

 

8. Boat Ride on the Ganges

No visit to Varanasi is complete without experiencing a boat ride on the sacred River Ganges. As the boat glides through the calm waters, you can witness the city's vibrant riverfront, the Ghats, and the numerous temples that dot the riverbanks. The boat ride also provides a unique perspective of the Ganga Aarti ceremony, as devotees gather on the Ghats to offer prayers and release floating lamps onto the river. It is a serene and soul-stirring experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the spiritual ambience of Varanasi.

 

Varanasi is a city that encapsulates the essence of ancient traditions, spirituality, and cultural heritage. From the serene Ghats to the revered temples, from the historical monuments to the vibrant university campus, the city offers diverse tourist attractions. Exploring Varanasi is an enriching experience allowing you to delve into Indian history, spirituality, and art. The city's mystical charm and religious significance create an atmosphere that is both captivating and awe-inspiring. Whether you seek spirituality, admire architecture, or are an art enthusiast, Varanasi has something to offer everyone. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey to Varanasi, where ancient traditions  blend harmoniously with the modern world, leaving an indelible impression on every traveller's heart.

 

Sankat Mochan Hanuman Mandir: A Holy Haven for Spiritual Renewal in Varanasi

 Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Banaras, is one of the most spiritual and ancient cities in India. It is a holy city for Hindus, and people from all over the world visit this city for spiritual renewal. One of the most revered temples in Varanasi is the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple.

The Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the Hindu god known for his devotion to Lord Rama. The temple is located near the Assi Ghat, and it is one of the most visited places in Varanasi. The temple is believed to have been built by the famous saint Tulsidas, who was a devotee of Lord Rama.

The temple is known for its peaceful and serene environment, and visitors can experience a deep sense of spirituality here. It is believed that praying to Lord Hanuman at this temple can help one overcome all kinds of obstacles and troubles in life. 

The temple is open from early morning till late at night, and visitors can participate in the daily rituals and ceremonies that are performed here. The atmosphere inside the temple is filled with the sound of devotional songs, and the fragrance of incense sticks and flowers.

If you are planning to visit Varanasi, the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Mandir is a must-visit place for spiritual renewal. It is a place where you can experience the true essence of Hindu spirituality and seek blessings from the almighty.

Visiting Hanuman ji in these Temples of India removes all Sorrows

There are some such places of worship of Hanuman ji all over the country, where all the wishes of the devotees are fulfilled by mere darshan. People from India and abroad come to visit these temples. Let us know about some such special temples of Hanuman ji in India.

Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple Varanasi Uttar Pradesh
The grand Sankat Mochan Hanuman Mandir in Varanasi is a symbol of faith and fearlessness. The temple was founded in the early 16th century by the famous Hindu preacher and poet-saint Shri Goswami Tulsidas. It is situated on the banks of Assi River. The temple is believed to have been built at the same place where Tulsidas had a vision of Hanuman ji. Sankat Mochan Temple was founded by Tulsidas who was the author of Ramcharitmanas, the largest version of the story of Lord Rama written in Awadhi.

Hanumangarhi, Ayodhya Uttar Pradesh
Hanuman Garhi Temple, one of the major religious places in Ayodhya, the city of Lord Rama, is a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, which has its own religious significance. This temple is situated on the top of a hill, devotees have to climb 76 steps to reach the temple. The idol of Hanuman ji located in the Hanuman Garhi temple welcomes the devotees. Where a large number of people of Hindu religion come to visit this temple and along with having darshan of Hanuman ji, also pray for freedom from their sins. There is a belief about Hanuman Garhi that whatever devotee comes here and makes a wish with a true heart, God definitely fulfills his wish. According to mythology, when Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya after his victory over Ravana, Hanuman ji started living here. That's why it was named Hanumangarh or Hanuman Kot and from here Hanumanji used to protect Ramkot.

Bade Hanuman ji, Prayagraj Uttar Pradesh
"Shri Bade Hanuman Mandir" is the only temple in India in which the idol of Hanuman ji is not standing but is sitting in a lying posture. This is a very famous Hanuman temple in India which is situated on the Sangam bank in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. In this temple, the idol of Hanuman ji is sitting in the "Veer Mudra" state, after seeing which the devotees get drenched with Veer Rasa. It is believed that this idol is at least 8-10 feet below the surface. This unique statue of Hanuman ji located in the temple is south facing and 20 feet high.

Salasar Hanuman Temple, Rajasthan
Marudhara is situated in the Churu district of Rajasthan, the beloved devotee of Rama and the Siddha temple of Mahabali Hanuman, the leader among the wise. This temple, popularly known as Salasar Balaji, was established by Mohandas Maharaj on Shravan Shukla Navami in Vikram Samvat 1811. It is a belief that being pleased with the devotion of Mohandasji, Hanumanji appeared in Asota in the form of an idol and fulfilled his wishes. of his devotees. After that the idol was consecrated in Salasar. Since Samvat 1811 (1754), the unbroken flame is burning in the temple premises where Mohandas ji's dhuna was.

Jakhoo Temple, Shimla
Jakhu Temple is a famous religious place located in Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh. This temple is situated on Jakhu Hill at an altitude of 8048 feet above sea level. This religious temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman is world famous where people from India and abroad come to visit. Devotees coming here say that coming here gives them peace and their wishes are also fulfilled. Those who come here with a true heart, Hanuman ji does not send them empty-handed.

Khammam Hanuman Temple, Telangana
This is the only temple in the whole of India where Hanuman can be seen as a householder. It is believed that by visiting this temple, problems related to married life end. Hanumanji's marriage ceremony is celebrated with great pomp in this temple on the tenth day of Shukla Paksha of Jyestha month. In many religious texts, Hanumanji has been described as unmarried, but the description of his marriage is found in Parashar Samhita. This temple has been built on the basis of that. This temple is several hundred years old.

Religious, Astrological and Spiritual Significance of Chaitra Navratri

Mother Durga is worshiped on 9 days of Navratri. According to Bhagwat Purana, 4 Navratras are celebrated in a year, including 2 Gupta Navratras including Sharadiya Navratri and Chaitra Navratri.

Chaitra Navratri is as special as Holi-Diwali in India. Whose fame is seen in most places of India. Different forms of Maa Durga are worshiped on the nine days of Navratri. From chanting of mantras to worshiping and offering bhog, each and everything has its own significance. According to the Bhagavata Purana, four Navratras are celebrated in a year, including two Gupta Navratras, Sharadiya Navratras, and Basanti Navratras, also known as Chaitra Navratras. All four Navratris are based on the seasons.

Astrological Significance
Chaitra Navratri has special significance from the astrological point of view because Sun's zodiac sign changes during or around this Navratri. The calculation of the new year's almanac starts from Chaitra Navratri. From this day onwards, the king, minister, general, rain, and the lord of agriculture are determined and food, wealth, trade and happiness, and peace are assessed in the year. The reason for worshiping the Goddess and Navagrahas in Navratri is also that the position of the planets should remain favorable throughout the year and there should be prosperity in life.

Religious Significance
Navratri has its own importance from the religious point of view, because at this time Aadi Shakti, who has covered this whole creation with her illusion, with whose power the creation is moving, who is the goddess who gives enjoyment and salvation, is earth, so she is worshipped. And the desired fruit is obtained from worship sooner than on other days. As far as Chaitra Navratri is concerned, it has special importance from the religious point of view because on the first day of Chaitra Navratri, Adishakti appeared and at the behest of the Goddess, Brahma ji started the work of creation.

That's why the Hindu New Year starts with Chaitra Shukla Pratipada. On the third day of Chaitra Navratra, Lord Vishnu established the earth by taking his first incarnation in the form of a fish. After this, the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu, that of Lord Rama, also took place in Chaitra Navratri. That's why Chaitra Navratri is very important from a religious point of view.

Spiritual Significance
In this Navratri, apart from the 9 powers of the Goddess, 9 Vidyas are also worshipped. 9 medicines are also included in the worship. In this Navratri, efforts are made for spiritual progress in addition to meditation, contemplation, and meditation. Sadhana of the seeker is more fruitful in this Navratri.

On the first day of Navratri, there is a law to visit Maa Shailputri Devi. There is an ancient temple of Maa Shailputri Devi in Varanasi. It is believed that every wish of the devotees is fulfilled by having the darshan of the goddess. This is the reason that there is an influx of devotees here during Navratri.

Masan Holi: Why is Holi played with the ashes of pyre in Kashi?

Holi is played in different ways in every region of India. Along with religious importance, this festival is also of mutual brotherhood and harmony. Along with Holi with colors, Holi is also played with the ashes of pyre. At the Manikarnika Ghat in Varanasi, Shiva devotees play Holi with the ashes of the pyre, which is called Masan Holi. It is believed that on this day Bholenath blesses his devotees from the great crematorium. They reach Manikarnika and play Holi with gulal as well as pyre ashes.

It is believed that on the day of Rangbhari Ekadashi, Lord Shiva takes Maa Gauri to his abode by making her Gouna. Shiva along with the gods and humans play Holi on that day. But the ghosts, who are considered dear to Shiva, are unable to participate in this festival, so the next day Shiva plays Masan Holi with them on the Marghat with the ashes of the pyre. With this belief, in the 16th century, Raja Man Singh of Jaipur built the Masan Temple in Kashi, where devotees play Masan Holi every year.

Devotees start gathering at the Ghat in the early morning, during this time everyone plays Masan Holi with ashes, this festival of Holi with burning pyres beside gives goosebumps. But fear dwarfs in front of the enthusiasm of the devotees. This amazing view of Moksha Nagri Varanasi stuns every beholder. People from all over the world come to see this special Holi.

Holi festival is associated with Lord Krishna all over the country, but in Banaras, it is celebrated in the celebration of Lord Shiva's cow. In Banaras, the festival of colors Holi starts a few days before Ekadashi. The festival begins with the ritual of Gauri's gauna. She leaves her father's house and comes to Shiva's abode. First of all, Shiva reaches Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple, then the next day Rudrabhishek is performed before Gauna. Shiva and Parvati are brought to the main temple in a silver palanquin. In this procession, devotees keep blowing colors and gulal. People also put flower petals and colors on the Shiva procession from the roof of the houses. Shiva enters the main temple amid the sound of drums and drums. Then worship takes place in the sanctum sanctorum. After this Lord Shiva orders Varanasi to play Holi.

Unexplored Tourist Places in Varanasi

Varanasi is a major district of Uttar Pradesh. Varanasi is about 300 km from Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh. Varanasi is an ancient and holy city of India. Varanasi was known as Kashi in ancient times. Varanasi is situated between the Varuna and Assi rivers. It was named Varanasi because of the Varuna and Assi rivers. It is also known as Banaras. Kashi is called the city of Lord Bholenath. Lord Vishwanath is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Kashi. People come to Kashi to die because it is said that salvation is attained here. That's why people come here to get freedom from the cycle of life and death. There are many Tourist Places in Varanasi, but there are some places that are not very famous but very beautiful and scenic, which you will know in this blog post.

Rani Laxmibai Birthplace

Rani Lakshmibai Janmasthali is a historical place in the city of Varanasi. Rani Lakshmi Bai was born at this place. Rani Lakshmibai was the heroine of the first Indian freedom struggle against the British in the 1857 revolution. He attained martyrdom on 18 June 1858 near Gwalior. Rani Lakshmi Bai was born on 19 November 1835. Rani Lakshmi Bai was born in Varanasi on the banks of the holy river Ganges. You can come here for a walk and here you will get to see the picture of Rani Laxmibai. Here you will find the idol of Rani Lakshmi Bai. Apart from this, you will get to see many more paintings here. There is a garden here. It is a must-visit place in Varanasi.

Sant Ravidas Park

Sant Ravidas Park is a beautiful park in Varanasi. This park is located in Nagwa, Varanasi. This park is huge. In the middle of this park, we meet to see the idol of Saint Ravidas ji. You can come here to visit with family and friends. This park is built near Sant Ravidas Ghat. This is the picnic spot of Varanasi.

Markandeya Mahadev Temple

Markandeya Mahadev Temple is a famous temple in Varanasi. This temple is located in Kaithi, Varanasi. This temple is also known as the Kaithi temple. This temple is very ancient and very famous. People come from far and wide to visit here. this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. At a distance of about 1 to 1.5 kilometers from the temple, you get to see the holy ghat of the river Ganges. Many people come here. They bathe in Maa Ganga and visit temples. Here during winter, you get to see Siberian birds, who come to this place during their migration.

Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum

Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum is a beautiful museum in Varanasi. This museum is located on the campus of Banaras Hindu University. Here you get to see very beautiful art. Here you get to see a very good collection of paintings, sculptures, and coins. There is also a garden here, which is very beautiful. There are different types of flowers in the garden. You can come here for a walk. timings of this museum are from 10 AM to 4 PM. It is a must-visit place in Varanasi.

Nepali Temple

Nepali Mandir is a major religious place in Varanasi. this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple is built like the Pashupatinath temple of Nepal. This is the replica of the same temple. This temple is also known as Mini Khajuraho. This temple was built by the king of Nepal in the 19th century. This temple has been constructed with terracotta, stone, and wood. Meet inside the temple to have darshan of the Shivling. Very beautiful workmanship is seen in the walls and doors of the temple, which is very good. This temple is built near Lalita Ghat in Varanasi. You can come here and roam around.

Jantar Mantar

Jantar Mantar is a historical site of the Varanasi district. Jantar Mantar is located near Man Mandir Ghat in Varanasi. Jantar Mantar was built by Maharaja Jai Singh II in 1737 AD. Here you get to see many instruments. These instruments were used in ancient times to observe the movement of the Sun. Here you get to see Disha Yantra, Ram Yantra, and Samrat Yantra. Here you also get to see the historic building, which is very beautiful. You can come here and see these instruments and you also get to see the beautiful view of the river Ganges here.

Adi Keshav Temple

This temple is situated at the confluence of the Ganges and Varuna rivers in Varanasi. Here you also get to see Adi Keshav Ghat. It is said about this temple and Ghat that when Lord Vishnu came to Kashi by the order of Lord Shiva, his feet first fell at this place and Lord Vishnu washed his feet and installed his idol at this place. By taking bath and drinking water from this place, man can get freedom from birth and death. Here you get to see a very beautiful idol of Lord Vishnu. You can come here for a walk.

Baba Keenaram Sthal

Baba Keenaram Sthal is a religious place in Varanasi. This is Aghor Peeth. Here you get to see the mausoleums of many saints. Here you get to see Lord Shiva and here you also get to see a kund. The place is made very systematically. You can come here for darshan.

Call it Varanasi or Banaras or Kashi!

Immersed in religious colors, this oldest city in India is called the city of Lord Shiva. It is believed that this grand city stands on the "Trishul" of Lord Shiva. Kashi is also called the spiritual and cultural capital of ancient India.

Countless ghats, two famous universities Kashi Hindu University and Sampurnanand Sanskrit University are situated in Kashi. There are around 85000 temples here. The city has been a commercial and industrial center for muslin and silk fabrics, perfumes, ivory, and crafts.

Someone has aptly said “Kashi is a city older than history, older than tradition, older than legend, and twice as old as all these combined!

There are many mythological stories associated with the Ghats in Varanasi, each one as interesting and shocking as the other.  Even though this city is crowded, its glory has been sung in various scriptures. But still, the peace that is in the land of Kashi is nowhere else.

Let's know what is so special in this city!

Dashashwamedh Ghat Aarti

Located near Kashi Vishwanath Temple, this Ghat is one of the most important Ghats of Banaras. A trip to Varanasi is considered incomplete if you do not witness the Ganga Aarti performed by the priests every evening at the ghats. A dip in the Ganges in Kashi opens the door to salvation. A large number of foreign tourists also come to Varanasi to watch the Ganga Aarti. That's why it is said that if you want liberation, then come to Kashi!

Ganga Aarti lasts for 45 minutes.

Starting Time: 6:45 PM

Manikarnika Ghat

Manikarnika Ghat is one of the most auspicious places for the departed to reach salvation. The specialty of this ghat is that the pyre's fire never calms down here. Funeral pyres burn 24/7 at this ghat, and around 200 cremations take place every day. It is said that Lord Shiva has blessed Manikarnika Ghat with eternal peace. It is believed that the truth of life lies at Manikarnika Ghat. It is believed that the fire rites of the dead body of Mata Sati were performed by Lord Shankar at Manikarnika Ghat. That is why it is called Mahashamshan.

Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the 12 holy Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. Situated on the west bank of the holy river Ganges, this temple adds to the dignity of Varanasi. Many people call it the Golden Temple of Lord Shiva because the two domes of the temple are covered with gold. People believe that when the earth was formed, the first ray of the sun first fell on Kashi. The temple opens daily at around 2:30 am. There are 5 aartis daily in the temple.

Rivers of Varanasi

The expansion of this city is said to be between the two confluences of the river Ganga, one with the river Varuna and the other with the river Asi. The distance between these confluences is about two and a half miles. Parikrama of this distance is called holy Panchkosi Parikrama among Hindus.

Panchkosi Parikrama

Panchkosi Yatra is one of the most important yatras undertaken by pilgrims around the holy Kashi Mandal. This holy journey begins with a holy dip in the river Ganga at the matchless Manikarnika Ghat. Kardameshwar, Shivpur, Rameshwar, Bhimchandi, and Kapildhara are the five places where devotees have to complete their Panch Koshi Parikrama.

Boat ride in river Ganga

Going to Banaras and enjoying a boat ride in the river Ganga will make your journey more fun. Sitting in the boat, the view of all the ghats will fascinate you. You can book your boat from Manmandir Ghat. If you do this journey in the morning, then there can be no better time than this. In this holy city, the hymns of the sadhus on the ghats in the morning, the chirping of birds, the Morning Prayer, and the redness of the rising sun make this city even grander.

Sarnath

Located 10 km from Banaras, this ancient city is home to the first sermon of Buddha at Sarnath. Sarnath is the place where Buddhism came into existence. The main attraction of Sarnath is the Chaukhandi Stupa which was built by Ashoka after his conversion to Buddhism. If you ever come to Kashi, do not forget to visit Sarnath.

Banaras Silk

India exports its silk to more than 200 countries across the world and its demand is increasing especially in Europe and America. Banarasi silks and sarees are produced exclusively in the ancient city of Varanasi and surrounding villages, using special techniques and unique creations. Located on Chhawni Road, the Banaras Silk Emporium is a huge exporter of traditional silk.

If you want to see the whole of traditional India, then I suggest that you must come to Kashi once.

Brief Information about Banaras Ghats

Varanasi is commonly called the city of ghats and temples. This city is also known by many different names Varanasi, Kashi, and Banaras. All the ghats here are situated on the banks of the river Ganges. There are a total of 88 ghats in the city of Varanasi. Most of these ghats are used for bathing and worship ceremonies. While two ghats are exclusively used as cremation sites.

History of Ghats of Banaras
Most of the ghats in Varanasi were rebuilt after 1700 AD when the city was part of the Maratha Empire. The patrons of the present Ghats are Marathas, Shindes (Scindias), Holkars, Bhonsles, and Peshwais. Many of the ghats here are associated with legends or mythology, while many are privately owned. Tourists come here in large numbers to watch the early morning of Banaras and boat ride along the Ghats.

Assi Ghat
Foreign students, researchers, artists and tourists visit this Ghat in large numbers. Around 300 people come here daily in the morning and around 2500 people per hour during festivals. Around 22,500 people gather at this ghat at a time during Shivratri. According to a belief, Goddess Durga threw her sword here after killing the demons Shumbha and Nishumbha. The river where the sword fell was known as Asi river. The confluence of river Ganges and Asi is known as Assi Ghat.

Ahilyabai Ghat
The Keolagiri Ghat was expanded in 1778 and built under the patronage of Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar, the queen of Madhya Pradesh. That's why this Ghat was named after him. Apart from the palace, there is a huge residential complex and Hanuman temple on this Ghat and there are two other temples.

Dashashwamedh Ghat
Dashashwamedh Ghat is known as the main Ghat in Varanasi. It is located close to the Vishwanath Temple and is one of the most spectacular ghats. Lord Brahma is believed to have built it to welcome Lord Shiva. There is an observatory built by Maharaja Jai Singh here. The Ganga Aarti of this ghat is very famous which is performed every evening. Aarti is performed here for Lord Shiva, Ganga, Surya, Agni and the entire universe. 

Narad Ghat
The old name of this Ghat is Kuwai Ghat. It was built in 1788 by Dattatreya Swami, a mutt head. The four important idols at Narada Ghata are Naradeshwara, Atriswara, Vasukishwara and Dattatreyaswara.

Ganga Mahal Ghat
Ganga Mahal Ghat is one of the main Ghats of Varanasi. It was built by the Narayan dynasty in 1830 AD. Since the palace was placed on a ghat, the ghat was named "Ganga Mahal Ghat". This palace is now used by educational institutions. The first floor is used by the "World Literacy Program of Canada" and the upper floors are used by the "Indo-Swedish Study Center" hosted by Karlstad University.

Lalita Ghat
The late king of Nepal built this ghat in the northern region of Varanasi. It is the site of the Ganga Keshava Temple, a wooden temple built in the Kathmandu style, the temple houses an idol of Pashupatieshwara, a form of Lord Shiva. It is a favorite site for painters and photographers.

Harishchandra Ghat
Harishchandra Ghat is one of the oldest Ghats in Varanasi. The ghat is named after a legendary king Harishchandra, who once worked at the cremation ground here for the firmament of truth and charity. It is believed that the gods rewarded him for his resolve, charity and truthfulness and returned his lost throne and his dead son. It is believed that if a person's last rites are performed at Harishchandra Ghat, then that person attains salvation.

Chet Singh Ghat
Chet Singh Ghat is a historical Garh Ghat. A battle took place at this place in 1781 between the army of Warren Hastings and Chet Singh. Maharaja Prabhu Narayan Singh took over the fort and the ghat from the British in the late 19th century. There are four parts of this Ghat which are known as Cheeta Singh Ghat, Niranjani Ghat, Nirwani Ghat and Shivala Ghat.

Jain Ghat
Jain Ghat was named after Suparshvanatha, the 7th Jain Tirthankara who was believed to have been born in the neighborhood. A temple was built in his memory in 1885 on the upper part of the Ghat. Before 1931 it was a part of Vacharaja Ghat, but when Babu Shekhar Chanda separated this part with the help of Jain monks, since then it is called Jain Ghat.

Scindia Ghat
Scindia Ghat is at the top of Manikarnika Ghat and is also known as the range of Shinde Ghat. The Shiva temple located here is about 150 years old and is partially submerged in the river.

Manikarnika Ghat
It is said that when Lord Shiva was carrying the burning body of Goddess Sati to the Himalayas, parts of Sati's body started falling on the earth. Wherever the pieces of the body of Goddess Sati fell, Lord Shiva established Shakti Peetha. The ear's ornament of Mata Sati had fallen at Manikarnika Ghat. It is one of the most famous, sacred, and oldest ghats in Varanasi. The last rites can be performed at this ghat according to Hindu rituals.

Rajendra Prasad Ghat
Earlier it was a part of Dashashwamedh Ghat. In 1979, the Ghat was named Rajendra Prasad Ghat in memory and honor of the first President of India, Rajendra Prasad. The Bharashiva Naga kings are believed to have performed horse sacrifices here in the 3rd century AD. By the early 980s, the wharf was used for trade in timber, sand, and stone plates.

Vizianagaram Ghat
This Ghat was named after the then Vizianagaram princely state of South India. The Maharaja of Vizianagaram provided funds for the construction of this ghat in 1890. This is the only Ghat in Andhra Pradesh. There are temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and Nispapeshwar.

Raja Ghat
This ghat was built by Rajarao Balaji in 1720. There is a palace in the northern part of this Ghat and Annapurna Math in the southern part. In 1965, the Uttar Pradesh government renovated the ghat and built steps made of red stone. Oil Deepotsav is organized at this Ghat in honor of Maa Ganga.