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Travel to Varanasi: Spiritual Journey with India’s Luxury Train Deccan Odyssey

Varanasi Overview

Varanasi is a city steeped in history and spirituality, located in Uttar Pradesh. Known as one of the oldest cities still in existence, it’s believed to be a place where gods come down to meditate. Varanasi has a significant place in many epics and mythologies.

This city is more than just its ancient and modern temples. It’s a hub of unique traditions like the Ganga Aarti, Hindu cremation rituals, and other ceremonies. Varanasi is also a shopper’s delight with its silk, wood items, copper, and brass articles. People travel to Varanasi to immerse themselves in Indian culture and for spiritual reasons.

 

Best Time to Visit Varanasi

There are two main reasons to visit Varanasi in the winter. First, the weather is pleasant, making sightseeing more enjoyable. Winter in Varanasi lasts from October to March, and during this time, you can experience many religious festivals and events featuring unique rituals.

Summer in Varanasi starts in April and ends in May. This is the hottest time of the year, with temperatures reaching up to 46°C, making it the least ideal time to visit. Although there are occasional showers, they don’t do much to lower the temperature or humidity.

Monsoon season begins in July and ends in September, bringing average rainfall. During this time, you can still catch a few important religious festivals.

Temples of Varanasi

Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Situated in Varanasi, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the holiest Hindu temples and holds great religious significance. The current structure was built in 1780 by Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore, featuring a golden spire and intricate architecture.

Kathwala Temple

Also known as the Kathwala Mandir, this temple in Varanasi is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Its name originates from the unique style of its architecture, featuring intricate carvings in wood (kath in Hindi) that adorn the temple walls, creating a mesmerizing visual effect.

New Vishwanath Temple

Located in Varanasi, this modern temple complex is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Built by the Birla family, it is known for its white marble structure and intricate carvings. It stands adjacent to the original Kashi Vishwanath Temple and attracts devotees and tourists alike.

Durga Temple

Situated in Varanasi, the Durga Temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga. It features a red-colored facade and is renowned for its vibrant religious ceremonies and festivals. The temple complex also includes idols of other Hindu deities, attracting devotees seeking blessings and spiritual solace.

Tulsi Manas Temple

Located in Varanasi, this temple is dedicated to Lord Rama. It is constructed at the place where Tulsidas, the great saint and poet, is believed to have written the Ramcharitmanas, an epic poem narrating the life of Lord Rama. The temple walls depict scenes from the Ramayana.

Bharat Mata Temple

Situated in Varanasi, this unique temple is dedicated to Bharat Mata (Mother India). Unlike traditional temples, it enshrines a large relief map of undivided India, symbolizing national unity and patriotism. It was inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi and serves as a tribute to India as a motherland.

Ghats of Varanasi

Dasaswamedh Ghat

One of the oldest and busiest ghats in Varanasi, Dasaswamedh Ghat is known for its vibrant evening aarti (prayer ceremony) dedicated to Lord Shiva and the Ganges River. Pilgrims gather here to witness the rituals and the spectacle of lights and sounds.

Assi Ghat

Located at the confluence of the Ganges and Assi rivers, Assi Ghat is revered for its peaceful and spiritual ambiance. It is believed to be the spot where the legendary sage Tulsidas wrote the revered epic, Ramcharitmanas.

Manmandir Ghat

Known for its stunning architecture, Manmandir Ghat features an elegant palace built by Maharaja Man Singh of Amber. The ghat offers a panoramic view of the river and is a popular spot for photography and relaxation.

Manikarnika Ghat

One of the most sacred and oldest ghats in Varanasi, Manikarnika Ghat is famous for its cremation ceremonies. Hindus believe that cremation here offers moksha (liberation). It is considered auspicious to die or be cremated at this ghat.

Harishchandra Ghat

Adjacent to Manikarnika Ghat, Harishchandra Ghat is another significant cremation ghat. It is named after King Harishchandra, known for his truthfulness, and is also considered sacred for performing last rites.

Shivala Ghat

Shivala Ghat is known for its historic Shiva temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It attracts devotees seeking blessings and spiritual solace. The ghat also hosts various cultural events and rituals throughout the year.

Darbhanga Ghat

Darbhanga Ghat is renowned for its elegant architecture and peaceful surroundings. It features a palace built by the Maharaja of Darbhanga. The ghat offers a serene atmosphere for devotees and tourists alike.

Tulsi Ghat

Tulsi Ghat is named after the great saint-poet Tulsidas, who wrote the Ramcharitmanas. The ghat is adorned with temples dedicated to Lord Ram and Hanuman, and it attracts devotees seeking spiritual enlightenment.

Scindia Ghat

Scindia Ghat is known for its scenic beauty and the Shiva temple constructed by the Scindia royal family of Gwalior. The ghat offers panoramic views of the river and is a popular spot for bathing and religious rituals.

Other important destinations in Varanasi 

Rana Mahal

Rana Mahal is a historic palace located in Varanasi, known for its intricate architecture and royal heritage. It was built by the erstwhile rulers of the region and showcases a blend of Mughal and Rajput architectural styles. Today, it serves as a museum and a symbol of Varanasi’s cultural richness.

Gyanvapi Well

The Gyanvapi Well is situated near the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi. It is believed to be the original location of the sacred Jyotirlinga (lingam of light) of Lord Shiva, which was later moved to the present temple. The well remains a site of spiritual significance for devotees.

Banaras Hindu University (BHU)

Founded in 1916 by Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya, BHU is one of India’s premier educational institutions. Located in Varanasi, it spans over a vast campus and includes colleges, departments, and research centers. BHU is renowned for its academic excellence in various disciplines and its cultural significance.

Ramnagar Fort

Located on the eastern bank of the Ganges River in Varanasi, Ramnagar Fort is a historic fortification built in the 18th century by the Maharaja of Varanasi. It showcases a blend of Mughal and Rajput architectural styles and houses a museum with a collection of vintage cars, royal artifacts, and weaponry.

Shopping in Varanasi

Inside the park, you’ll find several shops offering a variety of souvenirs. These items are crafted by local tribes, providing an authentic touch to your mementos. Among the top stores to visit are Dastkar, Dhonk, and Anokhi. Dastkar offers traditional crafts and textiles, Dhonk features eco-friendly products made by local artisans, and Anokhi is known for its beautiful block-printed fabrics. Shopping here not only gives you unique keepsakes but also supports the local community. Whether you’re looking for handcrafted jewelry, textiles, or decorative items, these stores have a diverse selection to choose from.

Famous handicrafts to buy from these stores

Peeli Kothi: This spot is renowned for its exquisite Benaras silk and beautifully crafted sarees. You can also find a variety of other high-quality fabrics here, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to add some luxurious textiles to their collection.

Thatheri Bazaar: A bustling market that offers a wide range of Benaras silk garments. In addition to sarees, you’ll find a variety of other clothing items made from this famous silk, providing plenty of options for anyone interested in traditional Indian attire.

Gai Ghat: This area is known for its intricate Minakari work, which adorns a range of accessories and semi-precious gems. Additionally, you can find various metal articles here, making it a great place to shop for unique and beautifully crafted items.

Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple: Beyond its spiritual significance, this temple area is popular for wooden toys and other wood works. You can also enjoy a variety of street foods, making it a delightful spot to explore both local crafts and flavors.

Vishwanath Gali: Famous for its deity statues and brassware, this lane is a treasure trove of souvenirs. You’ll also find wooden toys and other unique items, making it an ideal place to shop for memorable keepsakes and gifts.

Luxury Meets Spirituality: Deccan Odyssey’s Journey to Varanasi

Begin a spiritual journey to Varanasi aboard the Deccan Odyssey’s Cultural Odyssey India’s luxury train. Varanasi, the ancient city by the Ganges, offers a profound experience with its sacred rituals and vibrant culture. The Deccan Odyssey’s Cultural Odyssey ensures a seamless and opulent travel experience, blending traditional charm with modern comfort. As you travel to Varanasi, traverse the spiritual heart of India, witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti, explore the historic ghats, and delve into the city’s rich heritage. This luxurious expedition provides a unique opportunity to connect with Varanasi’s spiritual essence while enjoying world-class amenities and exceptional service on the Deccan Odyssey.

 

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