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Varanasi, also known as Banaras or Kashi, is a city located in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. This religious hub is considered among the seven sacred cities in Hinduism and Jainism, apart from Ayodhya, Mathura, Haridwar, Varanasi, Kanchipuram, Ujjain, and Dwarka. On one hand, there are pyres burning on the ghats of Varanasi; on the other hand, there are numerous temples, mazes of narrow alleys, and devotion in the hearts. In simple words, Varanasi is a hub of knowledge, culture, devotion, and art. Read this blog to learn some interesting facts about Varanasi and find out some famous things and what makes it a special place.
Top Interesting Facts About Varanasi
Table of Contents
1. Varanasi is named after two major rivers of India, Varuna and Asi.
3. Many believe Varanasi is over 3,000 years old, making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.
3. It is considered the spiritual capital of India.
4. It was once the home of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
5. Varanasi is situated on the banks of the sacred Ganges River.
6. Varanasi is also popular for its Ganga aarti, which takes place every evening.
7. The city is also known as Mukti Dham. It is believed that a person who takes their final breath in Varanasi attains salvation.
8. Varanasi is a leading trade centre of India. It majorly deals with silver and gold bracelets as well as the world-famous Banarasi silk.
9. India’s famous literary personalities, such as Munshi Prem Chand and Tulsi Das, were from Varanasi.
10. Varanasi is home to numerous temples devoted to Shaivism and Vaishnavism, like the Kashi Vishwanath temple, Durga temple, and Sankat Mohan Hanuman temple.
11. Asia’s largest university, the Banaras Hindu University, is also located in Varanasi. It was established by Madan Mohan Malviya.
12. The Bollywood industry has used its picturesque locations for shooting numerous blockbusters, like Raanjhanaa and Brahmāstra.
13. Ravi Shankar and Ustad Bismillah also trace their roots to Varanasi.
14. People in Varanasi hold a very intriguing practice called frog marriage at the Ashwamedh Ghat. A priest performs the wedding ceremony of frogs and then releases them into the river.
15. Varanasi is also known for its cremation ghats, like Manikarnika Ghat and Harishchandra Ghat.
16. Varanasi is just a few kilometres away from Sarnath, the place where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon.
Must-Visit Places in Varanasi
Whether you’re a curious student or an enthusiastic traveller, Varanasi offers a perfect mix of spirituality, history, and culture. These places not only enrich your travel experience but also offer insights into India’s ancient culture and spiritual depth. Here are some must-visit places in Varanasi you shouldn’t miss:
| Place | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Kashi Vishwanath Temple | One of the 12 Jyotirlingas is dedicated to Lord Shiva |
| Dashashwamedh Ghat | Famous for the grand Ganga Aarti every evening |
| Sarnath | Where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after enlightenment |
| Assi Ghat | Popular hangout for students, artists, and spiritual seekers |
| BHU Campus | A mix of heritage architecture and academic excellence |
Famous People Linked to Varanasi
Varanasi is not just known for its spiritual and cultural richness—it’s also the birthplace and workplace of some of India’s greatest legends. Here are a few iconic personalities linked to this timeless city:
1. Tulsidas – Author of Ramcharitmanas
The great poet Tulsidas composed the Ramcharitmanas in Varanasi, making the story of Lord Rama accessible to millions in the Awadhi language. His legacy lives on in Indian households and temples.
2. Pandit Ravi Shankar – Sitar Maestro
World-renowned sitarist Pandit Ravi Shankar, who popularised Indian classical music globally, was deeply connected to Varanasi, where he trained and performed in his early years.
3. Kabir Das – Mystic Poet and Saint
Born near Varanasi, Kabir Das was a 15th-century spiritual poet whose dohas (couplets) challenged orthodoxy and continue to inspire people with their deep philosophical messages.
4. Ustad Bismillah Khan – Shehnai Legend
Ustad Bismillah Khan, the man who brought the shehnai to the concert stage, considered Varanasi his soul’s home. His performances echoed the spirit of the city’s ghats and temples.
Varanasi is a city where history, faith, music, and culture intertwine beautifully. Its timeless charm, fascinating stories, and legendary personalities make it one of the most interesting and spiritually enriching destinations in India.
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FAQs
Varanasi is known for its temples and ghats like the Manikarnika Ghat and Harishchandra Ghat. it is believed that a person who takes his final breath in Varanasi attains salvation from the cycle of birth.
The holy city of Varanasi has always been a popular pilgrimage destination for Hindus. They come to this city to seek blessings in prominent temples such as the Kashi Vishwanath temple and witness the mysteries of its ghats where pyres are burning endlessly.
Varanasi is renowned for its Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Varanasi has three names – Kashi, Varanasi, and Banaras – reflecting its long history. Kashi is its ancient spiritual name, meaning “City of Light.” Varanasi is derived from the Varuna and Assi rivers. Banaras is a more colloquial name, popularised during the British colonial period.
Key attractions in Varanasi include the numerous ghats along the Ganges River, like Dashashwamedh and Manikarnika, where daily rituals occur. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Sarnath (where Buddha gave his first sermon), and the vibrant narrow lanes filled with local markets and ancient temples are also must-sees.
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