A Complete Guide to Visiting Kashi (Varanasi) and Its Attractions

By Prakash Joshi 4 Min Read
kashi vishwanath temple travel guide

 

Getting to Kashi:

 

  1. By Train:

    • Stations: Banaras and Varanasi Railway Stations.
    • Distance: Approximately 5 km from the Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
    • Transportation: Auto-rickshaws, e-rickshaws, or electric buses are available.
    • Charges: Sharing autos cost ₹25-₹50, reserved autos cost ₹100-₹150.
  2. By Bus:

    • Availability: Direct buses from nearby cities and states.
    • Travel Tip: Many travel agencies offer bus services to Kashi.
  3. By Air:

    • Airport: Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport.
    • Distance: Approximately 26 km from the temple.
    • Option: You can book a taxi or use airport shuttles to reach your destination.
  4. By Car:

    • Parking: Available at many hotels and private parking facilities.

 

Accommodation:

 

  •    Recommended Area:

Stay near Godaulia Crossing (also known as Girja Ghar Chauraha).

  •    Proximity:

Close to the temple and Ganga Ghats (200 meters away).

  • Accommodation Types:
      • Dharamshala: Starting from ₹600.
      • Hotels: Starting from ₹1000; luxury options up to ₹5000-₹10000.

 

  • Benefits:

Saves time and money on transportation due to proximity to key sites.

 

Visiting Temples:

 

1.Ganga Snan (Bath):

    • Location: Dashashwamedh Ghat.
    • Activities: Holy bath and perform rituals.

 

2.Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple:

      • Entry Gates:
        • Gate 1: From Lalita Ghat.
        • Gate 2: From Vishwanath Gali.
        • Gate 3: Near Godaulia Crossing.
        • Gate 4: Recommended for less crowd.
      • Special Services:
        • Sukham Darshan Counter: Charges ₹200 for a quicker experience.
        • Wheelchair Service: Available at Godaulia Crossing, charges ₹300-₹500.

 

3.Other Temples to Visit:

          • Kal Bhairav Temple: 1 km from the main temple, known for blessings after Kashi Vishwanath Darshan.
          • Nepali Temple and Pashupatinath Temple: Near Lalita Ghat.
          • Vishalakshi Temple: A revered shrine dedicated to Goddess Vishalakshi.
          • Annapurna Temple: Offers divine food; visit for the sacred meal.

 

Exploring Varanasi:

 

1.Ghats:

    • Exploration: Use boats to visit the ghats. Sharing boats cost ₹100-₹150, private boats cost ₹800-₹1000.
    • Popular Ghats: Manikarnika Ghat (for eternal rituals), Dashashwamedh Ghat (for Aarti).

 

2.Evening Aarti:

    • Time: 7:00 PM at Dashashwamedh Ghat.
    • Experience: Spectacular view of the grand Aarti, with crowds gathering from 5:00 PM.

 

3.Evening Walk:

    • Lalita Ghat: Enjoy the evening view and stroll around the corridor.

 

 

4.Additional Sightseeing;

 

  • Sarnath:

 

    • Highlights: Buddhist Stupa and monasteries.
    • Activities: Explore the serene environment and historical sites.

 

  • Other Temples:
      • Durga Temple: Known for its divine presence.
      • Tulsi Manas Temple: Famous for its spiritual ambiance.
      • Shakti-Mochan Temple: Dedicated to Hanuman, known for its peaceful environment.

 

Dining Options:

 

Local Delicacies:

    • Must-Try: Tikki, Kachori, Lassi, Kulfi.
    • Restaurants: Both high-end and street food options available.

 

Best Time to Visit:

 

  1. Peak Seasons: March, April, June, and during the month of Sawan.
  2. Ideal Duration:
    • Minimum Stay: 1 night.
    • Recommended Stay: 2 nights for a more comprehensive experience.

 

Budget:

 

  1. For 2 Days, 1 Night:
    • Estimated Cost: ₹3000-₹3500 plus train ticket.
  2. For 2 Nights:
    • Estimated Cost: ₹3500-₹4000 plus train ticket.
  3. Luxury Options: Higher budget for 5-star hotels.

 

Conclusion:

 

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