5 Main Reasons For Which Banaras Is Famous For

A total of 84 Ghats are located in Varanasi, each having its own history and a unique aspect. Banaras is famous for the ghats and some famous Ghats that no one should miss are -

• Dashashwamedh Ghat

• Assi Ghat

• Manikarnika Ghat

• Man Mandir Ghat

• Namo Ghat

Famous things to try in Banaras: -

1. Ganga Aarti: -

   

   It is a mesmerising experience that is performed at the Dashashwamedh Ghat and the Assi Ghat. Hundreds of diyas are illuminated and pandits perform an aarti of Ganga maa. Thousands of travellers from all around the world attend it. You might want to reserve a place at least half an hour ago if you want a good view of the aarti or book a boat, locally called, ‘Bajda’.



2. Sarnath: -

   

   It is located around half an hour away from Varanasi. It is a place of great significance for the Buddhists as it is considered that Lord Buddha gave his first sermon here under a banyan tree after he achieved enlightenment. There is a beautiful ancient Dhamek Stupa located over there along with a well maintained garden. It is also a perfect place for small picnics for the locals.   



3. The Street Food: -

   

   The street food of Varanasi is one of the oldest and most culturally rich cities in India and is known for its diverse flavours, spices, and tasty dishes. Some of the most famous dishes that every visitor must try at once when they come to Varanasi are—Kachori  Sabji and Aalu Puri. Banaras is also famous for Banarasi Paan. It is made of betel leaf and people should not miss this.



4. Festivals: -

   Banaras is also famous for its festivals and fairs which are celebrated throughout the year. Each festival offers a unique blend of spirituality, culture, and tradition. Some of the famous festivals are: -

   
   

   • Diwali: -

     

     Diwali, the festival of lights is celebrated with great passion. The city is adorned with illuminated lamps and colourful decorations. Diwali marks the Triumph of light over darkness and is celebrated with puja and the exchange of sweets
   
   

   • Mahashivratri: -

     

     Varanasi is known as the place of Lord Shiva and Mahashivratri is one of the major festivals celebrated in Banaras. All the devotees go to Kashi Vishwanath temple and other Shiva temples across the city and offer prayers and perform rituals.
   
   

   • Holi: -

     

     Holi, the festival of colours is celebrated with cheerfulness in Varanasi. The city turns into colours as people saturate each other with different colour powders and water and enjoy the festival with lots of fun and happiness.



5. Musical Events: -

   The city is not only known for its spiritual significance but also for its vibrant musical heritage. Some of the most musical events that are celebrated as a festival in Banaras: -
   
   

   • Ganga Mahotsav: -

     

     This is organized annually on the banks of the Ganges River, Ganga Mahotsav is a cultural event that celebrates the rich heritage of Varanasi. The festival features some mesmerising performances of classical music, dance, and traditional folk arts.
   
   

   • Sangeet Mahotsav: -

     

     Sangeet Mahotsav is held at different venues in Varanasi. Sangeet Mahotsav is a prestigious musical festival that showcases the best Indian classical music. Several musicians come and perform classical ragas, ghazals, and devotional songs.
   
   

   • Sitar and Sarod Festival: -

     The Sitar and Sarod festival is dedicated to the string instruments of Indian classical music, the Sitar and Sarod festivals in Banaras bring the talent of youngsters and offer them to showcase their talent on these instruments.
   
   

   • Kabir Festivals: -

     The Kabir festival features performances of Kabir Bhajan and spiritual songs fostering a sense of harmony and goodwill among attendees.
   
   

   • Dhrupad Mela: -

     Dhrupad Mela is held in Varanasi every year. The festival offers an area for promoting and preserving the traditional art form showcasing performances by prominent Dhrupad Vocalists and instrumentalists.