VARANASI

Amongst the most fascinating sites in Banaras, Assi Ghat is the holiest place in India for Hindus. It is said that Maa Durga disposed of her sword here in River Ganga after killing the demon, Shumbha-Nishumbha. It is said that taking a dip in this ghat will wash away all the sins of a devotee. Evening Ganga prayer at this ghat one of the highlights of Assi Ghat.

Located adjacent to the Kashi Temple on the banks of River Ganga, Dashashwamedh Ghat is one of the oldest and most significant ghats of Banaras. As per the mythologies, Lord Brahma sacrificed 10 horses here in a yajna, and since then it is known as Dashashwamedh Ghat. Kartik Purnima is an auspicious day when this ghat remains crowded with devotees.

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Kashi Vishwanath Temple is located at the heart of Varanasi and is the core attraction of this city. The Jyotirlinga present in this mandir is one of the 12 Jyotirlinga present in India. This temple is mentioned in hundreds of ancient mythologies and books. On special occasions, this temple welcomes approximately 1,000,00 devotees.

Overlooking holy Ganga, Ramnagar Fort is a red sandstone edifice built in the 18th century. The fort is owned by the current king of Banaras, Anant Narayan Singh. The fort features several temples, pavilions, balconies, and a Darbar Hall. Ornaments, clothes, and palanquins of the medieval era are also exhibited here.

Ahilyabai Ghat, named after the Queen Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore, is the first ghat of Banaras named after someone. This ghat is famous for taking a spiritual dip and attaining moksha. This ghat was built in the year 1778 by the Queen along with some other temples and religious residences all over the city. The best time to visit this ghat is early morning when it is full of devotees taking a holy dip in the river.

Sarnath Archaeological Museum is one of the oldest museums in India dedicated to Buddhist artifacts and ruins. The museum is comprised of five galleries and two verandas. Here you can see the images of Buddha, representation of animals such as horses and elephants, and attractive figures of bodhisattvas. The entry fee of Indians is Rs. 5 and foreign tourists is Rs. 100.