Varanasi – The Eternal City of Culture, Temples, Food, and Fabrics
Nestled on the banks of the sacred Ganges River in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, Varanasi—also known as Banaras or Kashi—is one of the oldest living cities in the world. A city that breathes history, spirituality, art, and tradition in every corner, Varanasi is not just a destination; it’s an experience that transforms the soul.
This sacred city has mesmerized pilgrims, artists, food lovers, and spiritual seekers for thousands of years. From its timeless temples and ghats to its world-famous Banarasi silk, and from delicious street food to soulful music and ancient rituals—Varanasi truly encapsulates the heart of India.
Let’s explore everything Varanasi is famous for—its food, fabrics, places, temples, and beyond.
🛕 Temples: The Spiritual Soul of Varanasi
Varanasi is often referred to as the “City of Temples”, and rightly so. With more than 2,000 temples scattered across its lanes and ghats, the city stands as a beacon of Hindu spirituality.
1. Kashi Vishwanath Temple
The crown jewel of Varanasi, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India. Pilgrims believe that a visit here and a dip in the Ganges ensures moksha (liberation from the cycle of birth and death).
2. Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple
Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, this temple is famous for its peaceful ambiance and is believed to remove troubles and obstacles (Sankat).
3. Durga Temple
Durga Mandir (Hindi: दुर्गा मंदिर), also known as Durga Kund Mandir and Durga Temple, is one of the most famous temples in the holy city of Varanasi. This temple has great religious importance in Hinduism and is dedicated to Durga. Durga Mandir was constructed in 18th century by Rani Bhabani of Natore.
4. Annapurna Devi Temple
Close to Kashi Vishwanath, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Annapurna, the goddess of nourishment.
5. Tulsi Manas Temple
Built from white marble, this temple is dedicated to Lord Rama and features verses from the Ramcharitmanas inscribed on its walls.
🏞️ Places to Visit: Where Time Stands Still
1. Ghats of Varanasi
The lifeline of Varanasi, its 88 ghats stretch along the Ganges, each with its own purpose—rituals, cremations, prayers, and baths.
- Dashashwamedh Ghat: The most vibrant and popular ghat, where the famous Ganga Aarti takes place every evening.
- Manikarnika Ghat: Known for cremation rituals, it’s a place that brings life and death together in harmony.
- Assi Ghat: A favorite among students and travelers, it’s great for yoga sessions and sunrise views.
2. Banaras Hindu University (BHU)
One of Asia’s largest residential universities, BHU’s sprawling campus houses the stunning New Vishwanath Temple, museums, and cultural centers.
3. Ramnagar Fort
Built in the 18th century, this Mughal-style fort lies across the Ganges and is home to a museum, vintage cars, royal manuscripts, and weapons.
4. Sarnath
Just 10 km from Varanasi, Sarnath is where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon. It is a vital Buddhist pilgrimage site featuring Dhamek Stupa, Mulagandha Kuti Vihar, and the Sarnath Museum.
🍽️ Food in Varanasi: A Heaven for Street Food Lovers
Varanasi is a paradise for vegetarian food lovers. Influenced by centuries of spiritual tradition, the food is pure, flavorful, and deeply rooted in Banarasi culture.
1. Kachori Sabzi
A spicy and hearty breakfast dish served with fried lentil-filled puris and a potato curry. Often followed by jalebi!
2. Baati Chokha
A local staple made of wheat dough balls (baati) stuffed with sattu, baked, and served with mashed vegetables (chokha).
3. Tamatar Chaat
A spicy, tangy, and unique chaat made with tomatoes, spices, and a dollop of ghee. Exclusive to Varanasi!
4. Chena Dahi Vada
Soft cottage cheese balls dipped in yogurt and tamarind chutney—lighter and tastier than regular dahi vada.
5. Malaiyyo (Nimish)
Available only in winter, it’s a delicate milk foam dessert flavored with saffron and cardamom. Heavenly!
6. Banarasi Paan
No trip is complete without trying the famous Banarasi paan—betel leaf stuffed with areca nut, gulkand, coconut, and spices. It’s an art form in itself!
👘 Fabrics & Crafts: The Glory of Banarasi Silk
One of the city’s most iconic exports is the Banarasi saree—a symbol of Indian elegance, worn by brides and celebrities alike.
1. Banarasi Sarees
Woven from the finest silk and often enriched with real gold and silver zari work, these sarees are the pride of India’s textile heritage. They come in many varieties like:
- Katan Silk
- Organza
- Georgette
- Shattir
- Tanchoi
- Jangla
Each saree takes weeks, sometimes months, to complete by handlooms passed down through generations of weavers.
2. Handicrafts
Varanasi is also famous for:
- Wooden Toys
- Gulabi Meenakari (pink enamel work)
- Rudraksha Beads
- Brassware and copper items
- Glass bangles and religious souvenirs
🎵 Music, Dance, and Art: The Cultural Canvas
Varanasi is a city where art is not a luxury but a way of life. It has produced legends in Indian classical music such as Pandit Ravi Shankar, Bismillah Khan, and Girija Devi.
- Banaras Gharana: A major style in Hindustani classical music and Kathak dance.
- Sitar, Tabla, Shehnai: Instruments born or popularized in the lanes of Banaras.
Regular music and dance performances take place at cultural centers and ghats—often open to the public.
📿 Festivals: When the City Comes Alive
1. Dev Deepawali
Celebrated 15 days after Diwali, all ghats are lit with millions of diyas—an awe-inspiring spectacle.
2. Mahashivratri
A major festival at Kashi Vishwanath, with night-long prayers and rituals dedicated to Lord Shiva.
3. Ganga Mahotsav
A celebration of culture, music, dance, and spiritual heritage along the Ganges.
🛍️ Shopping in Varanasi
- Godowlia Market: For silk sarees, shawls, and souvenirs.
- Vishwanath Gali: For paan, religious items, Rudraksha, and handicrafts.
- Thatheri Bazaar: Known for brassware and utensils.
Don’t forget to bargain and sip a kulhad (clay cup) of chai while you shop!
🌅 A Day in Varanasi: What to Do
Morning: Sunrise boat ride on the Ganges
Midday: Visit temples and explore BHU or Sarnath
Lunch: Traditional thali or Baati-Chokha meal
Evening: Witness the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat
Night: Walk along the ghats, try street food, or watch a cultural show
✨ Conclusion: Why Varanasi is More than Just a City
Varanasi is not just a place you visit. It’s a place that changes you. Whether you’re there for spiritual awakening, culinary adventures, textile shopping, or cultural immersion, the city welcomes you with open arms and a sacred heart.
As Mark Twain once said:
“Banaras is older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend, and looks twice as old as all of them put together.”
So pack your bags, keep your senses open, and prepare to be mesmerized by the timeless charm of Varanasi—India’s eternal city.