Varanasi is India's spiritual heart and one of the world's oldest living cities. Dashashwamedh Ghat evening Ganga Aarti is among the most spectacular ceremonies in India — arrive 30 minutes early. Boat ride on the Ganga at sunrise is the quintessential Varanasi experience. Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas — very important Hindu shrine. Sarnath (10 km from Varanasi) is where Buddha gave his first sermon — excellent museums and ruins. Manikarnika Ghat is the main cremation ghat. Ramnagar Fort across the river houses a fascinating museum. EZPZ Taxi covers Delhi-Varanasi long-distance trips — call +91-9871121217.
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Varanasi — one of the world's oldest living cities — operates on a completely different frequency from the rest of India. It's confrontational, spiritual, chaotic and deeply beautiful. Here's a complete guide:
The Ghats — Start Here
Varanasi has 88 ghats stretching 6.5 km along the Ganga. The best way to experience them is by boat at dawn (the single greatest experience in Varanasi).
Essential Ghats
- Dashashwamedh Ghat: The main ghat — where the Ganga Aarti happens every evening. The most accessible and photogenic
- Manikarnika Ghat: The primary cremation ghat — burning funeral pyres 24 hours a day, every day. One of Hinduism's most sacred spots — dying in Varanasi is believed to grant moksha (liberation). Approach respectfully, no photography
- Assi Ghat: Southern end — popular with pilgrims and yoga practitioners. Peaceful morning aarti
- Scindia Ghat: The partially submerged Shiva temple here, leaning into the Ganga — one of Varanasi's most photographed scenes
Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh
Every evening at sunset — 7 priests simultaneously perform the aarti with large fire lamps, incense, flowers and chanting. One of India's most extraordinary experiences. Arrive 45 minutes early. Watch from the ghat steps or from a boat on the river.
Kashi Vishwanath Temple
The most sacred Shiva temple in Hinduism — rebuilt in 1780 after Mughal destruction, now part of the new Kashi Vishwanath Corridor (2021) that directly connects the temple to the river ghats. The new corridor is architecturally impressive. Entry with ID for non-Hindus may be restricted — check current rules.
Sarnath — 12 km from Varanasi
Where Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment at Bodh Gaya. The Dhamek Stupa (5th century CE) marks the exact spot. The Sarnath Museum has the original Ashoka Lion Capital — the national symbol of India. Entry: Indians ₹15, Foreigners ₹200. Allow 2 hours.
Varanasi Boat Ride at Dawn
A 1.5 hour sunrise boat ride along all the ghats — watching the city wake up, smoke rising from pyres, pilgrims bathing, sadhus meditating — is the single most memorable travel experience in North India. Book any ghat-side boatman: ₹300–500 for a shared boat, ₹800–1,500 for a private one.
👉 Full Varanasi destination guide 👉 Book Delhi to Varanasi taxi — Sedan from ₹11,300 | +91-9871121217
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