Places to Visit in Kashi: The Spiritual Heart of India
Kashi, also known as Varanasi, is one of the most ancient cities in the world and holds a sacred place in the hearts of Hindus. It is believed to be the spiritual capital of India, where tradition, religion, and culture are deeply intertwined with everyday life. This vibrant city, located on the banks of the holy River Ganges, is a destination for those seeking both spiritual enlightenment and an immersion into the rich cultural heritage of India.
Kashi, often referred to as "The City of Light", is a place where every narrow lane, every ghāt (riverbank), and every temple resonates with centuries-old spiritual energy. Whether you are a pilgrim, a history buff, or a curious traveller, Kashi offers an array of places that reflect its profound religious significance, as well as its architectural and historical beauty. Here, we explore the top places to visit in Kashi.
1. Kashi Vishwanath Temple
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is undoubtedly the most significant and revered temple in Varanasi. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, the holiest shrines of Shiva in Hinduism. The temple’s golden spire and domes are a prominent feature of Varanasi's skyline, and pilgrims from all over the world come here to offer prayers and seek blessings.
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple has a long and tumultuous history, having been destroyed and rebuilt several times over the centuries. The present structure was built by the Maratha queen, Ahilyabai Holkar, in 1780. Visiting this temple, especially during the aarti (prayer ceremony), is a deeply moving experience as the sound of bells, the fragrance of incense, and the chanting of hymns create an atmosphere of intense devotion.2. Dashashwamedh Ghat
Dashashwamedh Ghāt is one of the most prominent and busiest ghāts in Varanasi, where life on the banks of the Ganges truly comes alive. The name "Dashashwamedh" refers to the legend where Lord Brahma is believed to have performed a sacrifice of ten horses here. This ghāt is the focal point for many religious ceremonies and rituals, where pilgrims come to take a dip in the sacred waters of the Ganges, believing it will cleanse their sins.
One of the main attractions at Dashashwamedh Ghāt is the famous Ganga Aarti, a grand, ritualistic prayer to the River Ganges, performed every evening. Hundreds of lamps are lit and set afloat on the river while priests chant mantras in unison. The spectacle is a mesmerising blend of devotion, light, and sound, and is a must-see for every visitor to Kashi.3. Manikarnika Ghat
Manikarnika Ghāt is one of the oldest and most sacred ghāts in Varanasi, renowned for being a cremation ground. Hindus believe that dying in Kashi and being cremated at Manikarnika Ghāt ensures moksha, or liberation from the cycle of birth and death. The ghāt is constantly enveloped in the smoke of funeral pyres, making it a stark reminder of the transient nature of life.Despite its solemn purpose, Manikarnika Ghāt holds immense spiritual significance, and many visitors come here to reflect on life and death. The sight of the sacred fires burning continuously can be overwhelming, but it is also a powerful symbol of the deep faith and beliefs that permeate the city.
4. Sarnath
Located just a few kilometres from Varanasi, Sarnath is a major Buddhist pilgrimage site. It was here that Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment, setting the wheel of dharma in motion. The Dhamek Stupa, which marks the spot where Buddha preached, is a towering structure that dates back to 249 BCE and is a focal point of the site.
Sarnath is also home to the Mulagandha Kuti Vihar, a beautiful Buddhist temple, and the Ashoka Pillar, a symbol of India’s heritage and Buddhism's influence. The Sarnath Archaeological Museum houses many important relics, including the famous Lion Capital of Ashoka, which is now India’s national emblem. The peaceful and serene atmosphere of Sarnath provides a stark contrast to the bustling energy of Varanasi.
5. Assi Ghat
Assi Ghāt, located at the confluence of the Assi River and the Ganges, is one of the southernmost ghāts in Varanasi. It is particularly popular among both pilgrims and tourists for its calm and serene environment. Many visitors come here to meditate, practise yoga, or simply enjoy the beautiful views of the river.The ghāt is also famous for its Subah-e-Banaras programme, a morning cultural and spiritual experience where visitors can attend aarti, listen to classical music performances, and join in yoga sessions. The peaceful atmosphere of Assi Ghāt makes it a wonderful place to start the day in Kashi.
6. Bharat Mata Temple
The Bharat Mata Temple is a unique shrine, dedicated not to a deity but to Mother India. Built in 1936 by freedom fighter Babu Shiv Prasad Gupta, this temple features a large relief map of India carved in marble. The map, which shows the geographical details of the country, including rivers, mountains, and oceans, is a powerful symbol of India’s unity and diversity.
Visitors to the Bharat Mata Temple can admire the craftsmanship of the map while reflecting on the idea of India as a mother figure, nurturing and protective of her people. It’s a significant stop for those interested in India’s history and the freedom movement.7. Ramnagar Fort
On the eastern bank of the Ganges, opposite Varanasi, lies the Ramnagar Fort, a striking structure that dates back to the 18th century. Built by Raja Balwant Singh, the fort serves as the residence of the Maharaja of Varanasi. Though much of it has fallen into disrepair, the fort still holds an old-world charm, with its blend of Mughal and Indian architecture.
Inside the fort is a museum that houses a fascinating collection of vintage cars, medieval weaponry, and ornate palanquins. The fort also has a temple dedicated to Ved Vyasa, the legendary author of the Mahabharata. During the Hindu festival of Dussehra, the Ramnagar Fort becomes a centre of grand festivities, as the Ram Lila performance (an enactment of the Ramayana) takes place over several days.8. Banaras Hindu University (BHU)
Banaras Hindu University is one of the largest residential universities in Asia and a centre of learning, not only in India but around the world. Founded by the great nationalist leader Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya in 1916, BHU is a prestigious institution that has contributed immensely to India’s academic and cultural development.Within the sprawling BHU campus, the New Vishwanath Temple (Birla Temple) is a major attraction. This temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is architecturally stunning, with intricate carvings and a tall spire. It is a peaceful place to visit and offers a moment of quiet contemplation amidst the hustle of the city.