Varanasi: What is the story of India's oldest religious city?

Situated on the banks of the holy Ganges River in the south of Uttar Pradesh, the mysteries of Kashi or Varanasi have been attracting pilgrims from India as well as foreigners for centuries. Varanasi, a city of ancient domes, temples, ashrams, saint-priests, shops adorned with Banarasi sarees, busy streets full of different exquisite tastes and balanced modernity, represents the colorful and charming India of dreams. There is an impression of Lord Shiva in every street of this city.

Kashi is one of the oldest and holy cities of the world. Lord Shiva has established this city. It is said that this city was built by Lord Shiva on his trident as his abode after his marriage with Goddess Parvati. Hence, it is said that even if the world ends, the city of Kashi will remain at that time.

Kashi is one of the seven holy cities of India
Kashi is one of the seven holy cities of India (Ayodhya, Kashi, Mathura, Haridwar, Kanchipuram, Ujjain and Dwarka). The city has about 84 Ghats and big shrines which have been present since the time of the Vedas. It is said that whoever stays here attains spiritual knowledge and salvation. It is also believed that the nine houses do not affect the people living in Kashi, as they follow the rules of Lord Shiva. They cannot even enter this city without the permission of Lord Shiva.

Kashi is mentioned in all ancient texts.
Kashi i.e. Varanasi or Banaras is definitely mentioned in almost all the ancient texts of India. In the 'Kashi Khand' of Skanda Purana, description of different pilgrimages of Kashi is found in about 15,000 verses. In the Puranas, this city is also mentioned as Adyvaishnava land and Lord Brahma is believed to have performed ten Ashwamedha Yagyas at Dashashwamedh Ghat. Along with this, this place is also important for the devotees of Goddess Sati, as the city is also home to a Shakti Peeth. 

Arrival of these great personalities in Kashi

Located near Kashi Vishwanath temple on the banks of river Ganges, Manikarnika Ghat is considered as a Shakti Peeth. Apart from Lord Shiva, the name of this holy city is associated with many great personalities of India like- Raja Harishchandra ji, Adi Shankaracharya ji, Goswami Tulsidas ji, Rani Ahilyabai Holkar, Rani Lakshmibai ji etc. Many ancient saints like Ramakrishna Paramhansa, Swami Dayanand Saraswati, Swami Vivekananda and Guru Nanak have sung their glory many times after visiting the Kashi Vishwanath temple. Meerabai's Guru Sant Raidas was also born in Banaras.

Why Kashi is named Varanasi
Known as the city of Lord Shiva, the city of temples, the city of knowledge, the religious capital of India, the city of lights, Kashi is given twelve different names in the Skanda Purana, among which Varanasi, Ananda-Kanan, Avimukt, Rudravas, Shri Shivpuri and Muktibhoomi are prominent. The name 'Kashi' means light or light of Brahma and Vishnu. The name Varanasi is probably derived from the two local rivers Varuna and Asi. These rivers come from north and south respectively and join the Ganges river.

Kashi Vishwanath Temple
There are innumerable temples of Lord Shiva in this city, of which Kashi Vishwanath Temple is paramount. Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most sacred places in the world. The holy Ganges river flows beside the temple, which increases the spiritual value of the temple manifold. Kashi Vishwanath temple has been mentioned countless times in ancient texts of India like Skanda Purana, Shiva Purana, Upanishads and Vedas.

The Shivling of Lord Vishwanath is one of the twelve Maha Jyotirlingas. Jyotirlinga means the self-manifestation of Shivling. It is said that a one-time visit to Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirlinga is equal to the journey of the remaining eleven Jyotirlingas. These Jyotirlingas are also considered to be the first of all Jyotirlingas and they are also called the king of Jyotirlingas.

A popular tradition that is followed even today is that after visiting the Kashi Vishwanath temple, the water taken from the river Ganges is used for the consecration of the Jyotirlinga of Sri Ramanathaswamy at Rameshwaram. The sand from the temple is brought back to Varanasi and given as Prasad to Lord Shiva. It is believed that pilgrimage to Kashi and Rameshwaram leads to complete salvation and knowledge.

The complex of Kashi Vishwanath temple is quadrangular, with many small and big temples dedicated to Lord Kartikeya, Lord Vinayaka, Kalabhaivar, Avimukteshwar, Lord Vishnu, Virupaksha, Virupaksha Gauri and Lord Shanishwar. The temple has three distinct areas- the first is a shikhara over the temple of Lord Vishwanath, the second is a golden dome and the third is a trident and a flag on top of it. The temple has an auditorium, which leads to the sanctum sanctorum where the Shivling is situated.

Kashi Vishwanath Temple and Rani Ahilyabai Holkar
How many times the invaders have tried to destroy the Kashi Vishwanath temple, it is not hidden from anyone. When PM Modi got the Kashi Vishwanath Dham Corridor constructed, bringing back the old glory of Kashi, he also got the statue of Queen Ahilyabai Holkar installed in it. The reason for this is that in 1780, Rani Ahilyabai ji got the Kashi Vishwanath temple rebuilt. And not only Kashi, but he also got the construction of temples done in far Gaya and up to the Himalayas.

He also got the temple rebuilt at Somnath in Gujarat. Rani Ahilya Bai ji built temples in famous pilgrimages and places across India, appointed scholars in temples, built ghats, built wells and stepwells, built new roads, built many buildings and dharamshalas, other areas for the hungry. Open it and put a cup for the thirsty. Indian society is indebted to the Queen for her great and public welfare works.

Kashi Vishwanath Temple Timings
Kashi Vishwanath Temple opens daily at 2:30 and closes at 11 pm. Mangala Aarti between 3 am to 4 pm, Midday Bhog Aarti between 11:30 am to 12 noon, Sapt Rishi Aarti between 7 pm and 8:30 pm, Shringar Bhog and Aarti at 9 pm, 10:30 pm Shayan Aarti begins. The general darshan timings are from 4 am to 11 am, 12 noon to 7 pm and 8:30 pm to 9 pm.

Other Famous Temples of Varanasi

Tulsi Manas Temple
Tulsi Manas Mandir is dedicated to Lord Shri Ram, Mata Sita and Lakshman ji. The temple is said to have been built at the place where Saint Goswami Tulsidas composed Shri Ramcharitmanas. On the walls of the temple, the four quarters of this holy book have been engraved.

Sankat Mochan Hanuman Mandir
This is a very Siddha temple, which was established by Goswami Tulsidas ji. Actually, Tulsidas ji was able to see Lord Shri Ram ji only by the grace of Hanuman ji, and by the grace of Hanuman ji he could compose Ramcharitmanas, so Tulsidas ji considered Hanuman ji as his guru and in Ramcharitmanas he Hanuman ji is worshiped as his guru.

Mata Annapurna Temple
This temple is dedicated to Annapurna Devi, an incarnation of Goddess Parvati, near Kashi Vishwanath Temple. This is the only temple in the world where Prasad is distributed among the devotees before offering Bhog to the Lord. It is said that whoever worships Mother Annapurna ji with devotion, there is never any shortage of food in his life.

Kal Bhairav ​​Temple
The temple is located 1 km away from Kashi Vishwanath Temple. It is said that one must visit this temple to complete their Kashi journey. He is believed to be the protector of Kashi and no one can enter Kashi without his permission.

History of Varanasi the "City of Shiva"

The primary name of Varanasi was 'Kashi,' got from the word 'Kasha,' meaning magnificence. Banaras is the old name of Varanasi, immersed with custom and eccentric legacy, Kashi is acknowledged to be the 'principal ground' created by Lord Shiva and deity Parvati. Varanasi is quite famous for Kashi Vishwanath Temple all around the world. As indicated by Hindu mythology, Kashi was established by Lord Shiva, one of three head gods alongside Brahma and Vishnu. During a battle between Brahma and Shiva, one of Brahma's five heads was removed by Shiva.

In Varanasi, each day dramas of sin and liberation are enacted earlier than one's dazzled eyes. India is altogether an extroverted country, however, right here the existence of the soul is so clearly and officially exteriorized that indoors and outside all however lose metaphysical distinction. The putting is correctly theatrical a geometric rebellion of temples and palaces and pavilions and minarets clings, crescent-shaped, to the cliff face alongside the bay created with the aid of using the flip of the Ganges; pilgrims emerge purified from a dip withinside the water of the river, and with pleasure identical to their ardor climb the ghats for the religious significance.

How Varanasi Got Its Name
As indicated by the 'Vamana Purana', the Varuna and also the Assi waterways began from the body of the first stage toward the dawn of history. the continuing name Varanasi has its starting stage in these 2 feeders of the Ganges, Varuna, and Asi, that flank its northern and southern limits. The plot of land lying between them was named 'Varanasi,' the holiest of all journeys. Banaras or Benaras, because it is prominently known, is barely a degradation of the name Varanasi.

Premature History of Varanasi
Students of history have now discovered that the Aryans initially settled in the Ganges valley and persistently thousand years BC, Varanasi transformed into the center of Aryan religion and thinking. The city in like manner flourished as a business and present-day center well known for its muslin and silk surfaces, ivory works, perfumery, and figures. In the sixth century BC, Varanasi was reworked into the capital of the domain of Kashi. throughout this point, Lord Buddha passed on his most significant message at Sarnath, simply ten km aloof from Varanasi. Being some extent of convergence of severe, educational, social, and inventive activities, Kashi drew the attention of several tourists around the world; Chinese tourist Hsüan Tsang is one among them, who visited Bharat around AD 635 Varanasi below Mughal Empire.

Varanasi Under Mughal Empire
From 1194, Varanasi went into a terrible stage for a seriously lengthy timespan under Mughal Empire. The sanctuaries were obliterated and the researchers needed to leave. In the sixteenth 100 years, with the lenient head Akbar's promotion to the Mughal lofty position, some strict reprieve was re-established in the city. All that vanished again in the late seventeenth century when the overbearing Mughal ruler Aurangzeb came to drive.

Ongoing History
The eighteenth century again carried back the lost magnificence to Varanasi. It turned into a free realm, with Ramnagar as its capital when the British proclaimed it another Indian state in 1910. After India's autonomy in 1947, Varanasi turned out to be important for the province of Uttar Pradesh.

Why Visit Varanasi?
Varanasi is one of the top traveler objections in India for pioneers from around the globe. This well-known top otherworldly objective in India has a few travelers and guests from a long way off performing ceremonies here. The top journey site in India is well known because of multiple factors and for the most part the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. The spot is famously called Kashi and individuals from all religions and ethnicities. It is accepted that the waters of the river Ganga are heavenly and hallowed and washing up there offers 'moksha' to that individual. Individuals from across borders and of various age bunches do this to scrub their spirit from past sins and get freedom from the pattern of birth and passing. This is one of the early morning activities in Varanasi. One of the main motivations to take an early morning boat ride is to see the various Ghats of Varanasi and other touring places in Varanasi like Palaces and forts.

काशी विश्वनाथ मंदिर का आध्यात्मिक इतिहास

अगर काशी हिंदू धर्म के केंद्र में है, तो काशी विश्वनाथ मंदिर (Kashi Vishwanath Temple) इस ईश्वरीय भूमि की धड़कन है। वास्तव में, यह मंदिर इतना पवित्र है कि इसका उल्लेख स्कंद पुराण में मिलता है, जो एक प्राचीन हिंदू ग्रंथ है। भगवान शिव को समर्पित, इस मंदिर में अपनी लोकप्रियता के कारण हर दिन हिंदुओं की भीड़ उमड़ती है। यह पवित्र नदी गंगा के तट पर स्थित है। श्री विश्वनाथ और विश्वेश्वर का अर्थ है "ब्रह्मांड के भगवान", इसलिए इस मंदिर को काशी विश्वनाथ मंदिर का नाम दिया गया है।

काशी विश्वनाथ मंदिर का महत्व
मंदिर हिंदुओं के लिए बहुत महत्व रखता है क्योंकि यह भगवान शिव के 12 ज्योतिर्लिंगों में से एक के रूप में प्रतिष्ठित है। ऐसी मान्यता है कि भगवान शिव वास्तव में यहां कुछ समय के लिए रुके थे। अन्य में सोमनाथ (गुजरात), मल्लिकार्जुन (आंध्र प्रदेश), महाकालेश्वर (मध्य प्रदेश), ओंकारेश्वर (मध्य प्रदेश), केदारनाथ (उत्तराखंड), भीमाशंकर (महाराष्ट्र), त्र्यंबकेश्वर (महाराष्ट्र), वैद्यनाथ ज्योतिर्लिंग, देवगढ़ (झारखंड) नागेश्वर (गुजरात), रामेश्वर (तमिलनाडु) और घृष्णेश्वर (महाराष्ट्र) शामिल हैं।

इतिहास
इस मंदिर का इतिहास में कई नृशंस घटनाओं से भरा पड़ा है। कुतुब-उद-दीन ऐबक ने 1194 ई. में इसे पूरी तरह से ध्वस्त कर दिया था। जबकि इल्तुतमिश के शासनकाल के दौरान इसे फिर से बनाया गया था, सिकंदर लोधी के शासनकाल के दौरान और बाद में सम्राट औरंगजेब की इस्लाम के प्रचार के लिए क्रूसेडर गतिविधियों के दौरान इसे फिर से ध्वस्त कर दिया गया था। यह देखना उल्लेखनीय है कि कैसे यह मंदिर समय की कई परीक्षाओं में खड़ा हुआ है और अपनी सारी महिमा में खड़ा है. काशी विश्वनाथ मंदिर को आखिरी बार इंदौर की रानी, ​​​​रानी अहिल्या बाई होल्कर ने फिर से बनाया और इसकी महिमा को बहाल किया था। उन्होंने मंदिर के जीर्णोद्धार की पहल की और इसके लिए धन भी मुहैया कराया। हालांकि बाद में अकबर के परपोते औरंगजेब ने मंदिर को तोड़कर उसके स्थान पर एक मस्जिद का निर्माण कराया था। 1835 में महाराजा रणजीत सिंह द्वारा आपूर्ति किए गए शुद्ध सोने से बने अपने तीन गुंबदों के कारण वाराणसी के स्वर्ण मंदिर के रूप में जाना जाता है।

मंदिर समय
समय: मंदिर प्रतिदिन 2:30 बजे खुलता है

प्रार्थना: प्रतिदिन 5 आरती आयोजित की जाती हैं, जिसमें पहली आरती सुबह 3 बजे और आखिरी आरती रात 10:30 बजे होती है।

कैसे पहुंचें काशी विश्वनाथ मंदिर
मंदिर वाराणसी कैंट रेलवे स्टेशन से लगभग 3 किमी दूर है। मौदलिया रेलवे स्टेशन 2.5 किमी दूर है और काशी स्टेशन 2 किमी दूर है। रेलवे स्टेशनों से, आप विश्वनाथ गली तक पहुँचने के लिए कोई भी सड़क परिवहन पा सकते हैं। आपको मंदिर तक पहुंचने के लिए गली से चलना चाहिए, क्योंकि सड़क के माध्यम से किसी भी वाहन की अनुमति नहीं है। यदि आप बस के माध्यम से पहुंचने का विकल्प चुन रहे हैं, तो मंदिर का निकटतम बस स्टैंड चौधरी चरण सिंह बस स्टैंड है, जो 3 किमी दूर है। वाराणसी के किसी भी हिस्से से, आप विश्वनाथ गली या दशाश्वमेध घाट तक पहुंचने के लिए ऑटो रिक्शा या साइकिल रिक्शा किराए पर ले सकते हैं। कुछ सौ मीटर की शेष दूरी पैदल ही तय करनी चाहिए।

Ganga Aarti Timing in Varanasi

Varanasi is considered to be one of the oldest places in the world. The places happen to be one of the seven holiest places in the country. Hence, Varanasi is a part of the Sapta Puri. The other cities of Sapta Puri include Mathura, Ayodhya, Kanchipuram, Haridwar, Dwarka, and Ujjain. As per Hindu mythology, Varanasi is regarded as the favorite place of Lord Shiva since the place is said to have been established by him. Shiva had cut off one of the heads of Brahma and carried it with him as a sign of his victory. When he reached Varanasi (as it is called now), Brahma’s head fell on the ground from Shiva’s hand and simply disappeared. Since then, Varanasi is regarded as one of the holiest places for the Hindus. Located along the banks of the holy river Ganga, Varanasi is known as the spiritual capital of India.

The Ganga at Varanasi
Varanasi is known as the land of temples and Ghats. The Ganga is considered to be the holiest river according to the Hindus. According to Hindu mythology, a dip in the Ganga River can cleanse all the sins one has ever done in a lifetime. Devotees come to Varanasi from all over the world to do a “Ganga Snaan.” The Ganga ghats of Varanasi are also known for the Ganga Aarti which is performed by the priests of Varanasi every evening. Some of the most famous Ghats that people visit in Varanasi to witness the Ganga Aarti are the Dashashwamedh Ghat, which is located just beside the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Rajendra Prasad Ghat, and Assi ghat. Although, the most famous ghat known for the Ganga Aarti remains the Dashashwamedh Ghat. Coming to Varanasi and not watching the Ganga Aarti is one of the biggest mistakes anyone can ever make. You need to check the Ganga Aarti timing inVaranasi before the visit.

The famous Ganga Aarti at Varanasi
The Ganga Aarti is one of the most serene things that you will get to see here in Varanasi. One moment there is hustle-bustle, but as soon as the conch is blown all the hustle-bustle immediately stops and there is absolute silence and peace. The blowing of the conch is a reminder to grab the attention of the people and tell them that the Ganga Aarti is about to begin. You will also see a statue of the goddess Ganga among the many raised platforms. The sound of the conch, along with the sound of the bells, accompanied by the smell of the incense sticks will give you goosebumps. Ganga Aarti timing in Varanasi is the busiest time in the city, on the Ghats.

However, as a tourist, you might get confused about the exact Ganga Aarti timing in Varanasi. The Ganga Aarti at Varanasi used to mainly happen in the evenings. The scheduled time for the Aarti was always after sunset. For summers, the Ganga Aarti in the evening would start at 7 PM, and for the Winters, it started at 6 PM.

The morning Aarti starts before dawn. The timing in the summer is from 5 AM to 7 AM, and during the winter it is from 5:30 AM to 7:30 AM. While the evening Aarti focuses on the Dashashwamedh Ghat, the morning Aarti has its focus on the Assi Ghat.

Conclusion
Both the Ganga Aarti has a charm of their own. Beginning the day with the Ganga Aarti at the Assi ghat is one of the serene things to do. While ending your day with the evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh ghat will give you goosebumps. Both the Ganga Aarti’s have a charm of their own. However, checking Ganga Aarti timing in Varanasi for the evening Aarti is a must to get a good viewing place since the ghat remains excessively crowded during this time.

वाराणसी के बारे में 10 रोचक तथ्य

वाराणसी ( Varanasi )एक पवित्र स्थान है, जहां साल भर बड़ी संख्या में पर्यटक आते हैं। इस जगह में अपने आगंतुकों के लिए बहुत कुछ है, जो उन्हें मंत्रमुग्ध कर देता है। सुंदर मंत्रमुग्ध करने वाले मंदिरों से लेकर स्वर्गीय गंगा शनहन तक, जिसके बारे में माना जाता है कि यह विश्वासियों के पापों को मिटा देता है, इस शहर में अपने मेहमानों के लिए बहुत कुछ है। नीचे वाराणसी के बारे में 10 रोचक तथ्य दिए गए हैं, जो इस जगह को और भी अनोखा बनाते हैं।

1. वाराणसी या बनारस दुनिया का सबसे पुराना जीवित शहर है, यह 3000 से अधिक वर्षों से सभ्यता का प्रमुख केंद्र रहा है।
   
   
2. यह तेईसवें तीर्थंकर पार्श्वनाथ का जन्म स्थान है।
   
   
3. यह दुनिया का एकमात्र स्थान है जिसमें 84 घाट हैं, जिससे यह दुनिया में सबसे अधिक नदी किनारे वाला शहर बन गया है।
   
   
4. बनारस हिंदू विश्वविद्यालय बनारस दुनिया के सबसे बड़े विश्वविद्यालयों में से एक है जो हिंदू शास्त्रों - वेदों में अध्ययन प्रदान करता है।
   
   
5. यह वह जगह है जहां मेंढक की शादी बहुत धूमधाम से की जाती है। हिंदू पुजारी द्वारा विधिवत रूप से किए गए बारिश के मौसम में इस दिलचस्प मेंढक विवाह को देखने के लिए हर साल सैकड़ों अश्वमेघ घाट पर इकट्ठा होते हैं।
   
   
6. पंडित रविशंकर और उस्ताद बिस्मिल्लाह खान जैसे प्रसिद्ध कलाकार और संगीतकार इस शहर से हैं।
   
   
7. वाराणसी के बारे में एक दिलचस्प तथ्य यह है कि मुंशी प्रेम चंद और तुलसी दास जैसे कई प्रसिद्ध साहित्यकार इस शहर से हैं।
   
   
8. हर साल हजारों पर्यटक जैसे पर्यटक आते हैं और उनमें से सैकड़ों इस जगह को अपना घर बनाते हैं - ऐसी है इस पवित्र जगह की समृद्धि!
   
   
9. यह स्थान तुलसी घाट पर आयोजित अपने पांच दिवसीय संगीतमय द्रुपद उत्सव और नवंबर में आयोजित गंगा महोत्सव उत्सव और नाग नथैया उत्सव के लिए प्रसिद्ध है।
   
   
10. बनारसी रेशम का सबसे बड़ा विक्रेता, साड़ी के एक टुकड़े को पूरा करने में 6 महीने तक का समय लग सकता है। सबसे प्रसिद्ध लोगों में कटान, ऑर्गेंज़ा, जॉर्जेट और शट्टीर हैं।

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.

Why is Kaal Bhairav Mandir known to get rid of all the Sins?

Kaal Bhairav temple is a mythical shrine of God Shiva located in Bharonath, Vishweshwarga, a place in Varanasi. The temple has various religious, historical, and cultural significance that attracts a lot of people. The temple is totally devoted to Bhairava (a ferocious form of Lord Shiva). The Kaal Bhairav Mandir derived its name from the ferocious form of Lord Shiva, and when combined with “Kaal” it basically signifies that someone’s time is not going well, and he is about to face death. This form of Shiva wears a garland containing skulls and peacock feathers with them. It is a belief that if somebody’s time is not going in favor, things go in the right direction, after visiting the temple. There is a saying that Kashi is one of Lord Shiva's favorite places, and he appointed Kaal Bhairav as the Kotwal of that place and gave him the authority to punish those who committed sins. In the interior of the temple, there is a silver idol of Kaal Bhairav form of Lord Shiva, that is sitting on a vehicle, with a dog and his three-pronged spear is the main center of attraction for the visitors, but the visitors only see the decorated face of the idol, other parts are totally covered with a piece of cloth.

Associated Story
Previously, God Brahma and Vishnu were competing among themselves to see who is superior. Then Lord Shiva appeared as a ray of hope to sort out the fight between the two Gods. An angry Brahma looked at the pillar of light with its 5th head, which began to burn in anger. Shiva immediately created the being Kaal Bhairava, who decapitated the 5th head of Brahma and got stuck on the hand of Kaal Bhairava. Brahma Hatya or cutting the head of Lord Brahma is a sin done by him, and a gory woman is created in the form of sin. Then in remorse for the crime of Kaal Bhairava, Lord Shiva ordered him to go to certain places, and the gory lady followed him till he reached Varanasi, the head fell down from his hand and the place is called "Kapal Mochan Teerth" and the lady had disappeared.  He was liberated from all the sins of Brahma Hatya when he entered Varanasi and after that Lord Shiva declared that Kaal Bhairav will stay in Varanasi forever to wash away the sins of his followers.

History
The construction of Kal Bhairav Temple is not accurate, but it was one of the oldest temples, destroyed at the time of the Mughal Empire and rebuilt around the 17th century and till now it is under the same infrastructure.

Ways to reach Kaal Bhairav Temple

• The exact location of the temple is Pandeypur Rd, Naibasti, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221002 which is around 3.9 kilometers from Varanasi Railway Station.
• If you prefer to come by airplane, at around 23.7 km away from Kaal Bhairav Temple, there is Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport.
• At around 3.4 kilometers from the Kaal Bhairav Temple, there is Varanasi Bus Stand in case you reach Varanasi by bus.
• You can take an auto-rickshaw, taxi, or a cab to reach the Kaal Bhairav Temple, according to your convenience.

Conclusion
In case you are visiting Varanasi, for religious significance, Kaal Bhairav temple is a must-visit place for you, and you will be able to get rid of all the sins and curses. Visiting Kaal Bhairava in the month of October to March is the best time.  Lord Shiva holds an important place in Hindu mythology, and it is a form of Lord Shiva that will bring all the good deeds into your life.

What to know before visiting Assi Ghat?

Some important facts you should know before visiting Assi Ghat.

·        Assi Ghat is the most important pilgrimage destination of the city Varanasi. It is located in the southernmost part of the city and is among the oldest Ghats in Varanasi. This river got its name because of the confluence of the Ganga and Assi River. 

·        It is a mythical saying that Goddess Durga killed the demon Shumba-Nisumbha and after that, her sword fell down and led to the emergence of a river and the Assi Ghat got its name, because of this. It is among the 5 pilgrims located in Varanasi and is known as the most authentic Ghats.

·       It is a saying that if a person has a bath in the Ghat, he will become free of all the sins and curses. A huge Shivling is located under a Peepal tree, where people pay their homage after having a bath. 

·        Tulsidas lived in a cave on Assi Ghat only, and created Shri Ramcharitmanas and rested in peace over there. 

·        This Ghat is a combination of societal, cultural, and religious importance. It is a symbolic point of interest for both Indians and foreigners.

·         People start crowding the place from dawn to dusk on a daily basis just because of the religious significance, so is prepared for the crowd, if you really want to visit the Ghat.

·        You can take a boat ride if you want to see the mesmerizing sunset in the evening.

·        The place is overcrowded at the times of ekadashi, purnima, and amavasya but in case you really want to take a dip in the river, be prepared for dealing with the crowd.

·       Mahashivratri is the best time to visit Assi Ghat; you can take a holy dip into the river and after paying homage to the huge shivling nearby.

The Assi Ghat is mentioned in many Hindu Holy Scriptures namely Karma Purana, Matsya Purana, Padma Purana and Agni Purana. People visit Assi Ghat for various reasons, to soak up the spiritual atmosphere, enjoy the famous night aarti and get a glimpse of the local culture. After twilight, the Ganga Aarti is breathtaking, with the echo of chants and spiritual giants performed by skilled saints (Pandas in Hindi). Birth, Mundan Sanskar, Upanayan, Marriage, Ganga Pujayya, and other rituals are performed. As a testimony, Manglik's works and other festival celebrations are done at this ghat.

Ways to reach Assi Ghat Varanasi
The total distance between Assi Ghat and Varanasi Railway Station is around 8 kilometers. If you drive with your own conveyance, it takes around 9 minutes. In case you are going to take a public conveyance or a cab, it’s totally dependable on you. By public conveyance or cab, it will take around 15-20 minutes.

The nearest Airport is Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport in Babatpur which is almost 28 km from the Ghat, and it takes about an hour to reach Assi Ghat from the airport.

Conclusion
if you really want to visit the Ghats of Varanasi and look for local culture, then distance does not matter. Everything that matters is your devotion and your willingness to get spiritual peace, as each and every Ghat and temple has a separate significance. Varanasi is a confluence of various ghats and temples and if you are visiting, visiting Assi Ghat is a must. You can enjoy mesmerizing sunsets, sitting on a boat in the middle of the river.

Dashashwamedh Ghat- Importance

Ganges Attraction- Dashashwamedh Ghat

Dashashwamedh Ghat is Varanasi's main attraction in the Ganges. Located near the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, this is probably the most spectacular Ghat and is quite famous for Ganga Aarti. This is the best place to see Ganga Aarti. Dashashwamedh Ghat is almost in the middle of a long line of Ghats in Varanasi. To the north is Raj Ghat, where the city once thrived. To the south is Assi Ghat, very popular with bohemians. Dashashwamedh Ghat Banaras is also easiest to access by road, while most others are reached via narrow streets.

Dashashwamedh Ghat - History and Holy Significance

Located near the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Brahma is said to have created this Ghat to welcome Shiva to this city that would always be known by his name.

It is also believed that Lord Brahma performed a special ritual of vengeance there in front of a sacred fire. The coming and going of the carnival is captivating, with a constant stream of pilgrims, Hindu priests, florists and beggars from morning till evening. You can sit and watch the views for hours without getting bored.

Literally, Dashashwamedh means 10 Ashwamedha Yagnas. Ashwamedha Yagna is a ritual performed by kings to establish their supremacy over the region.

In the past, Rani Ahilya Bai rebuilt Holkar from the Malwa ghat in the late 18th century.

Dashashwamedh Ghat - Alliance with Ganga Aarti

Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat is the most famous and extensive.

At Dashashwamedh Ghat, there are two platform games in two different parts of the Ghat. Colorful pavilions adorned with flowers rise on each platform, which is attached to an electric light pole. On top of each platform is another small platform covered in saffron fabric that contains all the veneration objects: flowers, a copper-colored water pot, a damp cloth for heavy and hot metal diyas, and a mussel shell. The platforms are also illuminated by oil lamps that literally transport you to another area.

The central platform houses a small temple dedicated to the goddess Ganga with her anthropomorphic shape adorned with beautiful wreaths of flowers.

Ways to Reach Dashashwamedh Ghat

There are many ways to reach Dashashwamedh Ghat, to view Ganga Aarti. It is totally based on your budget. It is just 4.2 kilometers from Varanasi Railway Station and after that an auto-rickshaw or a cab to reach Dashashwamedh Ghat easily. You can also take a flight and can reach Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport which is just 24.8 kilometers from Dashashwamedh Ghat.

Must Watch Attractions

• At the time of sunset, there is a live Ganga Aarti.
• Boat trips to all the surrounding Ghats.
• Watch pandits and locals praying for their deceased loved ones under a bamboo umbrella.
• A holy dip in the Dashashwamedh Ghat is said to have a cleansing effect.
• Walk through Vishwanath Gali to shop and enjoy street food and shops.
• Visiting Kashi Vishwanath Temple after taking a holy dip in the Ghat, is meant to give salvation.
• It is said that the Goddess Ganges will become happy if you pour milk into the river.

Brief Guide for Your Visit to the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Mandir

The Sankat Mochan Hanuman Mandir is a must-see for everyone visiting Varanasi on a pilgrimage. It is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and is located on the banks of the Assi River. Moreover, it is one of Varanasi's oldest Hindu sanctuaries, with thousands of pilgrims flocking to it every day.

The Sankat Mochan Hanuman Mandir, also known as Sankat Mochan temple, is located in Varanasi's southern district. The temple is devoted to Lord Hanuman, Hinduism's monkey God. The term 'Sankat Mochan' means 'all-problems-reliever.' The temple is mainly known for its dal and jaggery offerings distributed to tourists.

One of the essential features of this revered temple is Lord Hanuman's idol, which is facing Lord Rama, whom he worshipped with great zeal and devotion. Tulsidas is claimed to have written the Ramcharitmanas in this prominent tourist destination in Varanasi. Every Tuesday and Saturday, the number of followers doubles. Besan ke laddu (a sweet dish) is delivered to the Lord as a religious offering, and the idol is decked with a marigold flower garland.

According to legend, a visit to this well-known religious landmark in Varanasi is meant to grant believers' wishes. The larger group of monkeys is another sight you may expect to encounter within the temple.

What is the location of Sankat Mochan Temple?

The temple is near the Hindu University of Banaras (BHU). The temple is 11 kilometers from the railway station, and visitors can take a cab or a car to get there. Banaras Hindu University is around 3 km distant from the temple (BHU). Therefore, you can hire a vehicle from any part of Varanasi to go to the temple. The journey from the railway station to the temple takes 45 minutes.

When is the best time to go to Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple?

Tuesdays and Saturdays are highly popular ceremonial days, with around 1000 guests expected on those days. In addition, a recorded music and dance festival is held inside the temple every April. For the past 88 years, the celebration has been a component of this shrine.

Many entertainers from all across the country come to this temple to participate in the festivities. The event also features several well-known performers. Numerous ceremonies will be done inside the temple during Hanuman Jayanti. From 5 a.m. until 10 p.m., the temple is open. At 5 a.m. and 9 p.m., rituals are performed.

What Should You See?

Visitors are given a free booklet, including Hanuman and Lord Ram chants. The Sankat Mochan Temple is home to a large number of monkeys. The main deity is positioned so that Lord Hanuman can gaze at Lord Ram, who is also housed in the same temple. Visitors are given a vivid orange powder as an offering. The offering is placed on the worshipper's brow. It is not required.

History of the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Mandir

According to mythology, the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple was established on the site where Tulsi das saw a vision of Hanuman. It is an 18th-century temple, but little information on who built it is available.