Varanasi

In ancient times, Varanasi was known as Kashi. Even today, the city is often referred to as Kashi Varanasi. It is one of the most important religious destinations in Sanatan Dharma.

The origin and existence of Kashi Varanasi are deeply associated with Lord Shiva. The famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple is located here and is one of the most revered Shiva temples in the world.

The sacred River Ganga flows through Varanasi, where millions of devotees take a holy dip with deep faith. It is believed that Kaal Bhairav protects this ancient city and is considered the guardian of Kashi.

Varanasi is also famous for its numerous ghats, each having its own mythological and spiritual significance. Let us explore the history of this ancient city and the famous places to visit in Varanasi.

History of Varanasi

Varanasi is a district located in the state of Uttar Pradesh. According to Hindu mythology, the city of Kashi was established by Lord Shiva, who resides here in the form of the Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirlinga.

Due to this divine connection, Varanasi has become one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Hindus. The detailed description of this ancient city can be found in various Hindu scriptures, including the Skanda Purana, Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Rigveda.

Generally, Varanasi is considered to be around 3,000 years old, but according to Hindu beliefs, Kashi is much older than this.

In ancient times, Varanasi was an important centre for trade and industries, especially known for muslin, silk fabrics, and handicrafts. Even today, the famous Banarasi sarees of Varanasi are popular worldwide.

During the period of Gautama Buddha, Varanasi was the capital of the Kashi kingdom.

Kashi Varanasi Among the Sapta Puri

Kashi is one of the sacred Sapta Puri (seven holy cities) of Hinduism. According to Hindu scriptures, Kashi Varanasi is considered one of the seven cities that grant salvation (Moksha).

It is believed that if a person leaves their body in Kashi, they become free from the cycle of birth and death and attain liberation.

A famous verse describes the importance of these seven sacred cities:

Ayodhya Mathura Maya Kashi Kanchi Avantika,
Puri Dwaravati Chaiva Sapta Eta Moksha Dayikah.

Meaning:
Ayodhya, Mathura, Haridwar, Kashi, Kanchipuram, Ujjain, and Dwarka are the seven cities that provide salvation. It is believed that anyone who dies in any of these sacred places attains Moksha.

Famous Places to Visit in Varanasi

The most popular temple in Kashi Varanasi is the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, which was rebuilt in the 17th century. Apart from this, the Kaal Bhairav Temple, Durga Temple, Vishalakshi Temple, and Vyas Temple are also important religious sites.

Varanasi is also known as the City of Ghats. Among the famous ghats of Varanasi, Dashashwamedh Ghat and Assi Ghat are the most popular.

Kashi Vishwanath Temple

The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is also known as the Golden Temple. One of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva is installed here.

The present structure of the temple was built in 1780 by Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore. This famous temple is located near the Dashashwamedh Ghat on the banks of the River Ganga.

Kaal Bhairav Temple

Kaal Bhairav is considered the protector and guardian of Kashi. According to Hindu beliefs, Lord Shiva appointed Kaal Bhairav to protect this sacred city.

It is also believed that Kaal Bhairav was freed from the sin of Brahma Hatya (killing of Brahma) at this very place. Lord Shiva instructed him to stay in Kashi and protect the city.

Later, a temple was constructed here, and since then Kaal Bhairav has been worshipped as the guardian deity of Varanasi.

Vishalakshi Shakti Peeth

One of the important Shakti Peethas, the Vishalakshi Temple, is located in Varanasi.

According to mythology, the earring of Goddess Sati fell at this place. Due to this reason, one of the famous ghats of Varanasi was named Manikarnika Ghat.

Durga Temple

The Durga Temple of Varanasi is also known as the Monkey Temple. It was built in the 18th century.

Due to the large number of monkeys present around the temple, it became known as the Monkey Temple. According to local beliefs, the idol of Goddess Durga installed inside the temple was not created by humans but appeared on its own.

Dashashwamedh Ghat

Located near the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Dashashwamedh Ghat is one of the most beautiful and famous ghats of Varanasi.

There are two popular legends associated with this ghat. According to one belief, Lord Brahma created this ghat to welcome Lord Shiva. Another legend states that Lord Brahma performed ten Ashwamedha Yagyas here.

Every evening, a grand Ganga Aarti is performed at this ghat, attracting thousands of devotees and tourists.

Assi Ghat

Assi Ghat was built near the confluence of the River Ganga and the Assi River.

Cultural events, local festivals, and activities are regularly organised at this beautiful ghat. It is considered the last ghat among the long series of ghats in Varanasi.

This place is especially popular among painters, photographers, and visitors who want to experience the beauty of the city.