Delhi to Varanasi

The distance between Delhi and Varanasi, a major city in Uttar Pradesh, India, is approximately 750 to 800 kilometers by road. The travel time generally ranges from 12 to 14 hours by car or bus, depending on the route, traffic, and road conditions.

Varanasi is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, and it is considered the spiritual capital of India. Known as Kashi (the "City of Light") and Banaras, Varanasi is located in the northern part of India, in the state of Uttar Pradesh, along the banks of the Ganges River. It is a major center for Hindu pilgrimage, culture, and learning.

Key Facts About Varanasi:

1. Historical and Religious Significance:

   • Hinduism: Varanasi is revered as one of the holiest cities in Hinduism. It is believed that bathing in the Ganges River in Varanasi can wash away sins and lead to moksha (liberation from the cycle of rebirth). Many Hindus choose to spend their final days here, as dying in Varanasi is considered a way to attain liberation.
   • Ganges River: The Ganges is the lifeblood of the city, and thousands of pilgrims visit daily to take a holy dip in its waters. The river is also the site of numerous cremation ghats where people are cremated in the open air as part of religious rituals.
   • Temples: Varanasi is home to countless temples, the most prominent being the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the most revered deities in Hinduism.
   • Buddhism: Varanasi is also closely associated with Buddhism, as it is near Sarnath, where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. Sarnath is a key Buddhist pilgrimage site.

2. Key Attractions in Varanasi:

   • Kashi Vishwanath Temple: This famous temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India. Pilgrims come here to offer prayers and seek blessings.
   • Ghats of Varanasi: The ghats are a collection of steps leading to the Ganges River, where people perform rituals, take baths, or cremate the dead. The most famous ghats include Dashashwamedh Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, and Assi Ghat. The evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat is a must-see for visitors.
   • Sarnath: Located about 10 km from Varanasi, Sarnath is where Buddha delivered his first sermon after enlightenment. The Dhamek Stupa and the Sarnath Archaeological Museum are key sites here.
   • Banaras Hindu University (BHU): Established in 1916, BHU is one of the largest and oldest residential universities in India. The university has significant architectural beauty and a central role in India's educational history.
   • Ramnagar Fort: Located on the opposite bank of the Ganges, this fort is home to the Maharaja of Varanasi. It has a museum showcasing royal artifacts, weapons, and vintage cars.
   • Tulsi Manas Mandir: A beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Rama and built at the site where the Tulsi Ramayana is believed to have been written.

3. Culture:

   • Music and Dance: Varanasi is famous for its classical music, particularly Banarasi Sitar and Tabla performances. The city is known for its association with the Benares Gharana, a classical music tradition.
   • Silk Weaving: The city is famous for its Banarasi silk sarees, renowned for their intricate patterns and gold or silver thread work. These sarees are considered one of the finest in India.
   • Festivals: Varanasi celebrates numerous festivals with great fervor, including Diwali, Holi, Makar Sankranti, Navratri, and Mahashivaratri. The Ganga Mahotsav and Dev Deepawali are particularly famous in Varanasi.

4. Cuisine:

   • Varanasi is famous for its street food, offering a variety of sweets and savory snacks. Key dishes include:
     • Chaat: A variety of spicy and tangy snacks, including pani puri, aloo tikki, and chana chaat.
     • Kachori Sabzi: A popular breakfast dish of crispy kachoris served with spicy vegetable curry.
     • Banarasi Paan: A traditional after-meal digestive made with betel leaf, slaked lime, and sweet or savory fillings.
     • Lassi: A traditional yogurt-based drink, often served sweet or salty.
     • Sweet delicacies like Malaiyo (a frothy dessert) and Rabri are also local specialties.

5. Geography and Climate:

   • Location: Varanasi is located on the banks of the Ganges River in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. It is about 320 km southeast of Lucknow, 750 km east of Delhi, and 1200 km from Kolkata.
   • Climate: Varanasi experiences a hot semi-arid climate, with extremely hot summers (up to 45°C), a monsoon season (from June to September), and mild winters (around 5°C to 20°C). The best time to visit is from October to March, when the weather is cooler.

6. Transportation:

   • By Train: Varanasi is well-connected by rail and has its own major railway station, Varanasi Junction (VNS). The station is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Lucknow.
   • By Air: The Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS) connects Varanasi to cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Lucknow. The airport is around 25 km from the city center.
   • By Road: Varanasi is connected by National Highways 2 and 19 and is easily accessible by buses or private vehicles from cities like Delhi, Lucknow, and Allahabad.

7. Local Markets:

   • Varanasi has bustling markets known for their silk sarees, brassware, wooden toys, sculptures, and religious artifacts. The Kashi Vishwanath Market, Thatheri Bazaar, and Godowlia Market are popular shopping areas.

8. Events and Festivals:

   • Ganga Aarti: Every evening at Dashashwamedh Ghat, the famous Ganga Aarti is performed with offerings of fire to the Ganges. It is a mesmerizing sight and one of the top experiences in Varanasi.
   • Dev Deepawali: This festival, celebrated on the full moon of Kartik month, sees thousands of lamps being lit along the ghats, creating a magical atmosphere.
   • Ganga Mahotsav: A cultural festival celebrating the Ganges River, with performances, boat races, and rituals.

Varanasi is not just a city; it’s an experience — a spiritual journey, a cultural adventure, and a deep dive into the heart of India. Whether you’re visiting to seek spiritual enlightenment, explore historical landmarks, or immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture, Varanasi offers an unforgettable experience.