Varanasi, also known as Banaras or Kashi, is considered to be one of the most sacred cities in Hinduism.
It is believed to be the spiritual capital of India and the place where the Hindu god Shiva first revealed the secret of yoga to the world. The city has a long history of devotion and spiritual practice, dating back to ancient times.
The city is situated on the banks of the Ganges River, which is considered to be a sacred river in Hinduism.
Many pilgrims come to Varanasi to bathe in the river, which is believed to cleanse the soul and wash away sins. The city is also home to numerous temples and ashrams, where devotees can participate in spiritual practices such as meditation, yoga, and puja (worship).
One of the most famous temples in Varanasi is the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
The temple is considered to be one of the most sacred shrines in India and is visited by millions of pilgrims every year. The temple has a long history, dating back to the 12th century, and has been rebuilt several times over the centuries.
Another important devotional site in Varanasi is the Manikarnika Ghat, which is one of the main ghats (a series of steps leading down to the river) in the city. It is considered to be one of the most sacred places for Hindus to cremate their dead. The ghat is also associated with the goddess Parvati, who is said to have lost her earring while bathing in the Ganges, giving the ghat its name “Manikarnika” meaning “earring”
In addition to these major sites, there are many other temples, ashrams, and devotional sites in Varanasi, making it a major center of pilgrimage and spiritual practice in India.
Overall, Varanasi is considered a highly spiritual city, with a rich history of devotion and spiritual practice. It is considered one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world and is a major center of pilgrimage for Hindus. Many people come to the city to bathe in the Ganges River, visit temples, and participate in other spiritual practices.
5 Best Devotional places to visit in banaras
Kashi Vishwanath Temple: This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is considered one of the most sacred shrines in India. It is visited by millions of pilgrims every year. The temple has a rich history dating back to the 12th century and has been rebuilt several times over the centuries.
Manikarnika Ghat: This is one of the main ghats in Varanasi and is considered one of the most sacred places for Hindus to cremate their dead. It is also associated with the goddess Parvati, who is said to have lost her earring while bathing in the Ganges, giving the ghat its name “Manikarnika” meaning “earring”.
Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple: This temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the monkey god and an ardent devotee of Lord Rama. It is said to be over 400 years old and is visited by thousands of pilgrims every year.
Trimbakeshwar Temple: This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is considered one of the most sacred temples in Varanasi. The temple is known for its unique three-faced lingam, which represents the three aspects of Lord Shiva – creation, preservation, and destruction.
Kedareshwar Temple: This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located in the heart of the city. It is said to be one of the oldest temples in Varanasi and is considered to be a sacred place of pilgrimage for Hindus.
These are some of the most famous and popular devotional places to visit in Varanasi. Visitors should keep in mind that many of these sites are very crowded and can be quite busy, especially during peak pilgrimage seasons.