Guide to the Spiritual Capital of India
Varanasi has nearly 84 ghats along the river Ganga. The most famous is **Dashashwamedh Ghat**, where the spectacular Ganga Aarti takes place every evening at sunset. Pilgrims gather on boats and steps to watch priests perform synchronized rituals with brass lamps.
**Assi Ghat**, located in the south, is famous for its peaceful morning rituals ("Subah-e-Banaras"), morning yoga sessions, and classical music events. For cremation rituals, **Manikarnika Ghat** serves as the central sacred crematorium.
Book Ghats Walking TourThe heart of the city lies at the **Kashi Vishwanath Temple**, dedicated to Lord Shiva (one of the 12 sacred Jyotirlingas). The newly developed Kashi Vishwanath Corridor has transformed access, connecting the temple directly to the Ganga River.
Other major temples include the **Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple** (filled with sacred monkeys), the historical **Durga Kund Temple**, and the **New Vishwanath Temple (VT)** situated inside the BHU campus. Nearby **Sarnath** is also a major attraction, where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon.
Book Temple Darshan TourBanaras is a culinary goldmine. Start your morning with hot **Kachori Sabzi** served with spicy jalebi at Ram Bhandar or local street stalls. During afternoons, quench your thirst with thick, creamy **Banarasi Lassi** served in clay pots (kulhads).
Don't miss the famous winter dessert **Malaiyo** (a saffron-flavored milk froth), spicy **Tamatar Chaat**, and end your street food walk with the iconic **Banarasi Paan** (betel leaf).
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