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India > Varanasi

Six ideas for guided tours in Varanasi

• The Varanasi Ghats

  Varanasi, India’s sacred city, is famous for its ghats, the steps that descend to the banks of the Ganges and play an essential role in the daily and spiritual life of its inhabitants.
  Start your journey at the famous Dasaswamedh ghat, where you’ll be immersed in a whirlwind of color, incense and sacred chanting. Watch as pilgrims bathe in the purifying waters, indulging in their prayers. Continue your exploration at the Manikarnika ghat, where cremations take place day and night. Although it may seem macabre, this is a place of profound spiritual significance. Witnessing the transition between life and death, you will be confronted with the reality of human existence and the belief in reincarnation.
  The Assi ghat, meanwhile, is renowned for its peaceful atmosphere and yoga classes. Let yourself be guided by experienced instructors who will help you find inner harmony and reconnect your body and mind.

• Ganga Aarti: A spellbinding celebration

  The Ganga Aarti ceremony is an unforgettable spectacle that transports you into a world of devotion and spirituality. Every evening, on the sacred ghats of the Ganges, this ceremony sets hearts aflame and lights up the spirits of the thousands of visitors who gather there.
  The Dashashwamedh ghat is the main stage for this spectacular celebration. At sunset, priests dressed in colorful robes gather and light oil lamps, creating an enchanting atmosphere. Devotional songs fill the air, as the faithful join in collective prayer, offering flowers and candles to the sacred river.
  The energy that reigns during the Ganga Aarti is indescribable. It’s a blend of religious fervor, haunting music and spiritual upliftment.

• Hanuman temple

  The Hanuman Temple, also known as Sankat Mochan (meaning relief from all problems), has a power that captivates visitors from all over the world. Dedicated to Hanuman, the monkey god revered for his strength and devotion, this temple is a must-see for those interested in the sacred rites of Hinduism.
  Located in the heart of the old city, the Hanuman Temple stands majestically, inviting the faithful to immerse themselves in its sacred atmosphere. As you step inside, you’ll be greeted by the sound of devotional chanting and the intoxicating scent of incense.
  The temple houses an impressive statue of Hanuman, standing proudly in his characteristic posture, a reminder of his legendary strength.

• Golden Temple – Shri Kashi Vishwanath

  The Shri Kashi Vishwanath Golden Temple is a shining jewel in the heart of the holy city. Dedicated to Shiva, the Hindu god of destruction and creation, this temple is a place of pilgrimage where thousands of believers come to seek blessing and enlightenment.
  The temple’s structure is divided into three sections. The first is a golden dome, the second is a spire over the building and the third is a golden tower with a flag and trident at the top. Smaller temples dedicated to the gods Kala Bhairava, Shiva, Kartikeya, Avimukteshwara, Ganesha, Vishnu, Shani and Parvati can be found throughout the complex. The holy place or Mandir houses a small well, known as Gyan Vapi (the well of knowledge).

• Ramnagar Fort

  Ramnagar Fort is a veritable window on the past, where the history and grandeur of the kings of the Maharaja dynasty transport you to another time. As you explore the fort’s majestic walls, you’ll marvel at its imposing architecture and refined details. The richly decorated halls, spacious courtyards and lush gardens transport you into an atmosphere of opulence and splendor. Don’t miss the chance to attend the nightly changing of the guard ceremony, which adds a touch of grandeur to the experience. The fort’s museum is also well worth a visit, where you’ll discover a collection of royal carriages, antique weapons, sumptuous costumes and other historical treasures.

• Sarnath

  Sarnath, just 10 km north of Benares, is a cultural and spiritual treasure trove that offers travellers a profound experience. It was in this sacred city that the Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment, making Sarnath a place of pilgrimage for Buddhists from all over the world.
  A visit to Sarnath will envelop you in an aura of serenity and wisdom. Explore the ancient ruins of the archaeological site, where you’ll discover the majestic remains of monasteries, stupas and temples. The Dhamek Stupa, erected on the very spot where the Buddha first taught. And don’t miss the museum, where precious Buddhist sculptures and relics are on display. Admire Bodhisattva statues, images of the Buddha’s life and ancient artifacts that bear witness to the glorious days of the ancient city.

• Why did Benares become Varanasi?

  The renaming of the city of Benares as Varanasi is linked to a political and cultural decision taken by the Indian government. In 1956, as part of a cultural reappropriation movement, the Uttar Pradesh state government decided to rename several of the country’s cities to restore their traditional and historic names.
  Varanasi is the city’s original Sanskrit name, meaning “place beyond the rivers” in reference to its location on the banks of the Ganges.
  Third and most ancient name of the city is Kashi, meaning the city of light