Varanasi Pages - Incredible India
Transcription
Varanasi Pages - Incredible India
varanasi city GETTING AROUND City and private bus service can be availed from the bus stand near Varanasi Junction Railway Station. Auto-rickshaws though available in abundance mostly don’t run by meter, hence bargaining is necessary. Prepaid taxis and private cabs can be hired from Canal Road Taxi Stand. TOURIST ATTRACTIONS The Ghats of Varanasi Every holy activity begins with a cleansing bath on one of the hundreds of ghats lining the Ganga in Varanasi. It would be safe to say that the life of a Hindu centres on the Varanasi ghats. When he is born, he is brought to the ghats for the blessings of the gods, he receives the janeo (holy thread) on its banks and when it is time for him to depart to the other world, his mortals remains are cremated on its banks. No journey to Varanasi is, hence, complete without a visit to the ghats. Assi Ghat (Map Grid D4) at the very site where Guru Tegh Bahadur is said to have stayed during his visit. It is 3-storeyed building that houses a sanctum, two shrines and a small room called Tap Asthan which is believed to be the chamber that Guru Tegh Bahadur used for meditation. The complex also has a narrow step-well, called Baoli Ganga Pargat. Mrityunjay Mahadev Temple (Map Grid D3) (K-52/ 39 Vriddha Kal; famous Prataha Aarti (morning puja with hymns) at 5am every day must be attended by one and all New Vishwanath Temple (Map Grid C5) Situated within the Banaras Hindu University grounds, the Shiva temple was planned by Madan Mohan Malviya and built by the famous Birla family. The Bhagavad Gita engraved on the walls and shivalinga are the main attraction of this temple. : 4am – 12midnight) Varanasi is counted among the cities that have been inhabited since ancient times. Popularly known as Kashi, the city is spiritually as vast as the Ganga herself and hence is called the religious capital of India. Varanasi finds mention in epics like the Ramayana, Mahabharata and Jataka tales. Known as the city of Lord Shiva, his benediction can be felt in the belief that whoever dies here attains salvation from the cycle of birth and rebirth. This temple city is known for being the heartland of Hindu renaissance, the land of piety, philosophy and religious mysticism. It has gifted the world with great souls like Gautam Buddha, Bhagwan Mahavira, Sant Kabir, Ramanuja, Tulsi Das, Adi Shankaracharya and many more. The name of this holy temple is derived from the legend that the linga enshrined in its sanctum has the powers to conquer death (mrityu in Hindi means 'death' and jay means 'victory'). The waters of the well called Kalodak Kup inside the complex is believed to have healing properties. Ganga Dussehra, the biggest festival dedicated to goddess Ganga, is celebrated with great enthusiasm in the city. Numerous devotees take a holy dip in the Ganga and make offerings to the goddess. Alamgir Mosque (Map Grid D3) (Near Panchganga Ghat; : sunrise to The beautiful 17 century Alamgir Mosque, built by Emperor Aurangzeb, is the largest structure on Panchganga Ghat. th Ganga Mahotsav (October-November) Legend has it that Assi Ghat is located exactly on the spot where Goddess Durga threw her dagger after slaying the demons Shumbha and Nishumbha. The impact was so great that a crater was formed and a stream emerged that merged with the Ganga. The festival is organised by the Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department to celebrate Dev Deepavali and also provide a platform to display the cultural legacy of the city. Reputed artistes are invited from across the country to perform and participate in the official celebrations of the 4-day festival on the Dasashwamedh Ghat. Harishchandra Ghat (Map Grid D4) Dev Deepavali (November) Harishchandra Ghat can be easily identified by the pyres that burn all day long on its stone steps. It is believed that the legendary King Harishchandra worked here as a chandaal (one who performs the cremation). One can also visit the temples of Adi Manikanteshwara, Vriddha Kedar and Raja Harishchandra located on the ghat. The ghats of Varanasi brighten up with several glittering diyas, ‘earthen lamps’, during the Dev Deepavali. Devotees pay homage to River Ganga during the full moon in the month of Kartik called Kartik Purnima. The foremost feature of the Hanuman Ghat are the numerous akhadas (country gymnasiums) lining its steps. Every morning, heavily built men wielding clubs can be spotted exercising on its earthen floors. It is also the best place to lie down on a charpai (string cot) and have a pehelwan (wrestler) give you nice and refreshing oil massage. Dasashwamedh Ghat (Map Grid D4) One of the most important ghats in Varanasi, Dasahhwamedh derives its name from the ten (dus, in Hindi) horse sacrifices (ashwamedh) performed here by Lord Brahma to appease Lord Shiva. One of the primary attractions is the Ganga aarati. Every evening, priests come down to the ghats and worship the Ganga with multi-tiered flaming lamps. Viewed from a boat on the river, it is a visual spectacle. QUICK FACTS Nakkatayya Leela (October) Alamgir Mosque St. Mary s Church (Map Grid C3) (Mall Road, Cantonment Area; : 8am-6pm) St. Mary’s is among the oldest Protestant churches in the country. It is believed that the foundation stone of this church was laid by Daniel Corrie in 1810. The compound with a short tower, spire and projecting porch also serves as the resting place to many tombs and memorials. Bharat Mata Temple (Map Grid C3) (Kashi Vidyapeeth Campus; : 9.30am-8pm) Pay your obeisance to the map of undivided India, carved on marble and guarded by five pillars, each one symbolising the convergence of nature’s elements like earth, wind, fire, water and sky. Unlike other temples of India, Mother India is worshipped in the Bharat Mata Temple. Established by Babu Shiv Prasad Gupt, the temple had Mahatma Gandhi as its first visitor in 1936. Dasashwamedh Ghat : 125 sq kms Altitude : 80.7 m above sea level Temperature : Summer- Max: 38°C Min: 28°C : Winter- Max: 21°C Min: 7°C Average annual Precipitation : 11.1 cms Best Season : July to March STD Code : 0542 Language : Hindi, English GETTING TO VARANASI By Air Manikarnika Ghat (Map Grid D3) The chief cremation ghat of Varanasi, Manikarnika Ghat has numerous pyres burning day and night. It is believed that Lord Shiva himself goes near the burning pyre and carries the soul to heaven. Fuelled by this belief, the ghat receives hundreds of bodies every day. Kashi Vishwanath Temple (Map Grid D3) (Vishwanath Gali; : 2.30am10.30pm) One of the most popular and revered shrines of Varanasi is the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. It is one of the twelve sacred jyotirlingas or the 'lingas of light’. Devotees believe that even a glance of this famed linga can sanctify one’s entire being. In the same complex is the temple of Devi Annapurna Bhavani. Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport or Babatpur Airport in Varanasi operates daily flights to New Delhi, Agra, Khajuraho, Lucknow and Mumbai. It also has international flights to Kathmandu, Colombo and Bangkok-Suvarnabhumi. Gyanvapi Mosque (Map Grid D3) (Nagwa; : sunrise to sunset) By Rail Jantar Mantar (Map Grid D3) (Near Dasashwamedha Ghat) Varanasi with its two railway stations, Kashi Junction and Varanasi Cantonment, connects trains to New Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, Mumbai, Khajuraho, Jammu and Jodhpur. Established by Maharaja Jai Singh in 1737, this observatory is similar to the one in Delhi and Jaipur. It measures local time, sun's declination, altitude, movement of stars, planets and determines eclipses with the help of yantras or mechanical instruments. Some of the important yantras are the Krantivritta Yantra, Digansha Yantra, Samrat Yantra, Prakash Yantra, Ram Yantra, Disha Yantra and Dhruva Yantra. Tickets can be booked easily through the Indian Railways website (www.irctc.co.in) and reservation counters all over the city. Hanuman Jayanti (March-April) Sharing the same complex of Kashi Vishwanath Temple on the Panchganga Ghat, the triple domed Mughal style mosque was built by Emperor Aurangzeb. The mosque and the Kashi Vishwanath Temple stand testimony to the diversity of India. Bharat Mata Temple Durga Temple (Map Grid C4) (Durga Kund Road ; : 5am-12noon & 1pm-10pm) The 18th century temple, placed on the rectangular Durga Kund, can be easily identified by its huge multi-tiered red shikhara. Built by a Bengali queen, the goddess is worshipped with fervour especially during the Navratras. Bharat Kala Bhavan (Map Grid C5) (Inside BHU; : 11am-4.30pm; closed on University holidays; Entry fee: Indians/ SAARC/ Foreigners/ students: `5/ 20/ 40/ 2; Camera/ Shooting: `10/ 1000) A part of Banaras Hindu University, this museum treasures Hindu and Buddhist archaeological remains. Established in 1920, the hall has the sculpture of a man on one leg, one hand on his hip and the other handling a huge stone on his head. The museum houses other galleries like Nicholas Roerich Gallery, Chhavi (painting) Gallery, Mahamana Malviya Gallery, Nidhi (treasure) Gallery, Archaeological Gallery, Sculpture Gallery, Decorative Art Gallery and many others. New Vishwanath Temple Banaras Hindu University (Map Grid C5) One of the internationally accredited institutions, the Banaras Hindu University or BHU, was founded by Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya in 1916, with Dr Annie Besant playing a crucial role. Known as ‘Oxford of the East’, it is spread over 1,300 acres on the south of the city. The architecture of the university considered amongst the marvellous monuments in Varanasi and also houses an airstrip for aeronautical education. FEW WORDS FROM INDIAN LEXICON English to Hindi Address Answer Arrival Baggage Directions Festival Food Friend Fruit Gift Hungry Hurry up Water Price Purchase Question Safe Shop Thank You Toilet Vegetable Your : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : Pata Jawab Pahunchna Saaman Dishayen Tyohar Khana Dost Phal Uphar Bhukha Jaldi Kijiye Pani Mulya Kharidna Sawal Surakshit Dukaan Dhanyavad Jan Suvidha/ Shouchalaya Sabzi Tumhara CONVERSATIONAL PHRASES English to Hindi At the Airport : Airport ki taraf Where is the exit? : Bahar ka raasta kidhar hai? How far is the hotel? : Hotel kitni door hai? What is the rent? : Kiraaya kitna hai? Please call Taxi : Kripaya Taxi bula dijiye Please stop here : Kripaya yaha ruke Place worth visiting : Dekhne layak jagah Want city guide map : Shahar maanchitra chahiye Show me the way : Mujhe raasta bata dijiye Please do booking : Kripaya booking kar dijiye Which is the main shopping centre? : Mukhy bazaar kaunsa hai? I want to send an e-mail : Mujhe Email bhejna hai. It is hot/ cold today : Aaj bahut garmi/ sardi hai An incident from the great epic, Ramayana, Nakkatayya is reenacted in the Nakkatayya Leela at Chetganj. Although it is more popular among the people of Varanasi and the neighbouring towns, it is also recommended to those exploring the heritage of India. Nag Nathaiya Festival (November- December) Nag Nathaiya festival is a unique and popular festival celebrated on the Tulsi Ghat. It marks the famous episode of Kaliya Mardan from Krishna Leela, where Lord Krishna leapt into the water and killed the poisonous Kaliya Cobra (nag) to save the people of Vrindavan. A huge celebration takes place where the same episode is enacted and applauded by large number devotees. SHOPPER’S PARADISE Godowlia Market (Map Grid D3) (Godowlia; : 10am-8pm; Closed on Sunday) Godowlia Market is one of the most popular and busy shopping areas in the city. An array of shops selling different items, from garments to bags, handicrafts to gift items make this market simply stand apart. Beautiful silk and zari sarees, salwar suits and other decorative household products are available here at reasonable prices. Chowk Bazaar (Map Grid C3) (: 10am – 8pm; Closed on Sunday) The Chowk Bazaar has numerous shops exhibiting and selling elegant silk dresses. There are also book stores like Vishwavidyalaya Prakashan, Motilal Banarasidas and Chaukhambha Sanskrit Bhavan boasting of rare collections. It is also known for its flower market and as being a foodie’s paradise. The famous Khoya Gali specialises in condensed milk sweets, while Kachori Gali has the famous Banarasi kachori (flour snack filled with stuffing). For chaat (curd-based snack) lovers, Deena Chaat (Deenanath Kesari) at Nariyal Gali is the place to be. Vishwanath Gali (Map Grid D3) (Near Vishwanath Temple; : 10am8pm; Avoid on Monday) Located in the middle of old Varanasi (Banaras) city, Vishwanath Gali is a puzzle with three entry points. Apart from delicious vegetarian snacks, this is a perfect place for people who have a sweet tooth. Vishwanath Gali is a street shopper's delight, with everything available from backpacks to audiocassettes. The beautifully adorned wood and lacquer sindoor case are a must pick from this market. The saunf-supari, a mouth freshener offered after hot kachoris and delicious jalebis here is as refreshing as the water of the Ganga. ACCOMMODATION Wide range of hotels in all categories are available. Contact nearest tourist office or www.incredibleindia.org FAIRS & FESTIVALS Dhrupad Mela (February) Not for sale Distances of various cities and villages from Varanasi are as follows: Agra 599 kms, Allahabad 129 kms, Ayodhya 217 kms, Bodhgaya 274 kms, Chitrakoot 255 kms, Faizabad 211 kms, Ghazipur 79 kms, Gorakhpur 201 kms, Jaipur 832 kms, Jamshedpur 559 kms, Jaunpur 64 kms, Jhansi 532 kms, Kanpur 327 kms, Khajuraho 376 kms, Lucknow 318 kms, Mussoorie 894 kms, Muzaffarpur 306 kms, Nalanda 333 kms, Patna 252 kms, Rae Bareli 241 kms, Ranchi 431 kms, Sarnath 12 kms. Bharat Kala Bhavan Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple (Map Grid C4) (Nagwa, Sankat Mochan Gali: : 5am-10pm; Photography, mobile phones and carry bags not allowed) Jantar Mantar Gurudwara Bari Sangat Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur (Map Grid D3) (Nichi Bagh; : sunrise to sunset) The earliest and most significant gurudwara at Varanasi is located Founded by Goswami Tulsidas, the holy Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple is believed to grant the wishes and desires of those in distress. According to Vedic Astrology, Lord Hanuman rescues people from the malignant forces of planet Saturn. The UP Government Tourist Office Urban Haat, Sanskritik Sankul, Maqbool Alam Road, Chowka Ghat : +91-542-2505033 LIST OF MUSEUMS Dhrupad Mela is a 5-day North Indian classical music extravaganza. Legendary artists perform throughout the night, enlivening the Tulsi Ghat with sounds of an assortment of Indian musical instruments; it culminates when the sun comes up on Ganga. Mahashivaratri (February-March) The city of Lord Shiva celebrates Mahashivaratri festival with great fervour. On this occasion, all Shiva temples of Varanasi are ornamentally embellished. The enactment of Lord Shiva’s marriage sees the baraat or ‘marriage procession’ being taken out from the Mahamrityunjaya Temple, Daranagar and concluding at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Bharat Kala Bhawan (Map Grid C5) Banaras Hindu University : +91-542-2316337/ 2307620/ 2307621 Timings: 11am-4.30pm Closed: Sundays, University Holidays Entry Fee: Indian/ SAARC/ Foreigner/ Student: `5/ 20/ 40/ 2, Camera: `10 Archaeological Museum (Map Grid D1) Sampurnand Sanskrit Visvavidyalaya : +91-542--203961 (M): 09415711655 Timings: 10.30am-4.30pm (August-April), 7.30am-1pm (May-July) Closed: University Holidays Departmental Museum (Map Grid C5) Ancient Indian History, Culture and Archaeology, BHU : +91-542-2307436/ 2367059/ 2368024 Timings: 10.30am-4.30pm; Closed: University Holidays Geological Museum (Map Grid C5) Department of Geology, BHU : +91-542-2316081 Timings: 10.30am-5pm; Closed: Sundays, University Holidays Jnana-Pravaha Kalamandapa (Map Grid D5) Centre for Cultural Studies & Research, South of Samne Ghat : +91-542-2366326/ 2366971 (@) : [email protected] (w) : www.jnanapravaha.org Timings: 11am-5pm; Closed: Monday Parshwanath Vidyapeeth (Map Grid C5) ITI Road, Karaundi : +91-542-2575521 (@) : [email protected] Timings: 8am-12pm, 3pm-5pm (Summer) 10am-5pm (Winter) Closed: Sunday IMPORTANT NUMBERS Ambulance 102 Police 100 Fire Brigade 101 Traffic/ Accidents +91-542-2502073 District Control Room 09415908476 Varanasi City Railway Station Enquiry - General/ Reservations 131 Airport Enquiry +91-542-2400569 SPG Hospital, Kabirchaura +91-542-2333723 SSL Hospital, BHU +91-542-2312542-45 Government Hospital, Shivpur +91-542-2282226 Note: Due to space constraint, all places of interest could not be included here. For more up-to-date-information, contact nearest India Tourism office. Or visit www.incredibleindia.org varanasi city Vishwanath Gali By Road Varanasi is connected to other states by National Highway 2, 7 and 56. To travel in and around the city, Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) buses can be hailed from Varanasi Central Bus Station on Sher Shah Suri Marg. India Tourism, Varanasi 15-B, The Mall : +91-542-2501784 (@) : [email protected] (w) : www.incredibleindia.org Ganga Dussehra (June) sunset) In India, the very thin line that often separates myth from truth can be seen at best in Varanasi. In this city, live the 330 million gods that are believed to be worshipped. It is logical, therefore, to say that it is even heavenly than the heavens. It is also said that when Shiva, the god of destruction lets loose the pralaya (the flood that will destroy all creation), Kashi will remain unscathed. It is truly an eternal city! Area The festival of colours in Benaras is celebrated with a great spiritual and traditional fervour. The idols of Lord Shiva and Parvati are taken out in a procession from Kashi Vishwanath Temple and the devotees flock on the roadside throw gulal (dry coloured powder) on them. Devotees celebrate and rejoice at Sankat Mochan Temple on the occasion of Lord Hanuman’s birth. The janmotsav or ‘birthday’ is celebrated for five days, with performances by renowned artistes from all over India. Hanuman Ghat (Map Grid D4) City Ci ty Map ap Must see Sites TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRES Holi (March) Thatheri Bazaar (Map Grid C3) (: 10am – 8pm; Closed on Sunday) Shop till you drop for silk sarees, suits, exquisite fabric materials, embroidered garments, pillow and cushion covers and other garments at this fabric paradise. When you’re tired of garments switch over to the brass works and choose from the wide range and variety available here. Chew the famous Baarasi paan or betel leaf in Babu Nandan’s paan shop which is one of the most eminent paan shops in Varanasi. Do avail some heavy discounts and of course be ready to raise your voice for bargaining. Bansphatak Chowk (Map Grid C3) (: 10am – 8pm; Closed on Sunday) Popular as sari market, Bansphatak Chowk is famous for Banarasi sari shops. The best of lehenga choli, ghagra and other traditional dresses are found here. Don’t forget to visit the state emporium for genuine Banarasi items. City Ci ty Map ap Must see Sites GETTING AROUND City and private bus service can be availed from the bus stand near Varanasi Junction Railway Station. Auto-rickshaws though available in abundance mostly don’t run by meter, hence bargaining is necessary. Prepaid taxis and private cabs can be hired from Canal Road Taxi Stand. TOURIST ATTRACTIONS The Ghats of Varanasi Every holy activity begins with a cleansing bath on one of the hundreds of ghats lining the Ganga in Varanasi. It would be safe to say that the life of a Hindu centres on the Varanasi ghats. When he is born, he is brought to the ghats for the blessings of the gods, he receives the janeo (holy thread) on its banks and when it is time for him to depart to the other world, his mortals remains are cremated on its banks. No journey to Varanasi is, hence, complete without a visit to the ghats. Assi Ghat (Map Grid D4) at the very site where Guru Tegh Bahadur is said to have stayed during his visit. It is 3-storeyed building that houses a sanctum, two shrines and a small room called Tap Asthan which is believed to be the chamber that Guru Tegh Bahadur used for meditation. The complex also has a narrow step-well, called Baoli Ganga Pargat. Mrityunjay Mahadev Temple (Map Grid D3) (K-52/ 39 Vriddha Kal; famous Prataha Aarti (morning puja with hymns) at 5am every day must be attended by one and all New Vishwanath Temple (Map Grid C5) Situated within the Banaras Hindu University grounds, the Shiva temple was planned by Madan Mohan Malviya and built by the famous Birla family. The Bhagavad Gita engraved on the walls and shivalinga are the main attraction of this temple. : 4am – 12midnight) This temple city is known for being the heartland of Hindu renaissance, the land of piety, philosophy and religious mysticism. It has gifted the world with great souls like Gautam Buddha, Bhagwan Mahavira, Sant Kabir, Ramanuja, Tulsi Das, Adi Shankaracharya and many more. The name of this holy temple is derived from the legend that the linga enshrined in its sanctum has the powers to conquer death (mrityu in Hindi means 'death' and jay means 'victory'). The waters of the well called Kalodak Kup inside the complex is believed to have healing properties. Ganga Dussehra, the biggest festival dedicated to goddess Ganga, is celebrated with great enthusiasm in the city. Numerous devotees take a holy dip in the Ganga and make offerings to the goddess. Alamgir Mosque (Map Grid D3) (Near Panchganga Ghat; : sunrise to The beautiful 17 century Alamgir Mosque, built by Emperor Aurangzeb, is the largest structure on Panchganga Ghat. th Ganga Mahotsav (October-November) Legend has it that Assi Ghat is located exactly on the spot where Goddess Durga threw her dagger after slaying the demons Shumbha and Nishumbha. The impact was so great that a crater was formed and a stream emerged that merged with the Ganga. The festival is organised by the Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department to celebrate Dev Deepavali and also provide a platform to display the cultural legacy of the city. Reputed artistes are invited from across the country to perform and participate in the official celebrations of the 4-day festival on the Dasashwamedh Ghat. Harishchandra Ghat (Map Grid D4) Dev Deepavali (November) Harishchandra Ghat can be easily identified by the pyres that burn all day long on its stone steps. It is believed that the legendary King Harishchandra worked here as a chandaal (one who performs the cremation). One can also visit the temples of Adi Manikanteshwara, Vriddha Kedar and Raja Harishchandra located on the ghat. The ghats of Varanasi brighten up with several glittering diyas, ‘earthen lamps’, during the Dev Deepavali. Devotees pay homage to River Ganga during the full moon in the month of Kartik called Kartik Purnima. The foremost feature of the Hanuman Ghat are the numerous akhadas (country gymnasiums) lining its steps. Every morning, heavily built men wielding clubs can be spotted exercising on its earthen floors. It is also the best place to lie down on a charpai (string cot) and have a pehelwan (wrestler) give you nice and refreshing oil massage. Dasashwamedh Ghat (Map Grid D4) One of the most important ghats in Varanasi, Dasahhwamedh derives its name from the ten (dus, in Hindi) horse sacrifices (ashwamedh) performed here by Lord Brahma to appease Lord Shiva. One of the primary attractions is the Ganga aarati. Every evening, priests come down to the ghats and worship the Ganga with multi-tiered flaming lamps. Viewed from a boat on the river, it is a visual spectacle. QUICK FACTS Nakkatayya Leela (October) Alamgir Mosque St. Mary s Church (Map Grid C3) (Mall Road, Cantonment Area; : 8am-6pm) St. Mary’s is among the oldest Protestant churches in the country. It is believed that the foundation stone of this church was laid by Daniel Corrie in 1810. The compound with a short tower, spire and projecting porch also serves as the resting place to many tombs and memorials. Bharat Mata Temple (Map Grid C3) (Kashi Vidyapeeth Campus; : 9.30am-8pm) Pay your obeisance to the map of undivided India, carved on marble and guarded by five pillars, each one symbolising the convergence of nature’s elements like earth, wind, fire, water and sky. Unlike other temples of India, Mother India is worshipped in the Bharat Mata Temple. Established by Babu Shiv Prasad Gupt, the temple had Mahatma Gandhi as its first visitor in 1936. Dasashwamedh Ghat : 125 sq kms Altitude : 80.7 m above sea level Temperature : Summer- Max: 38°C Min: 28°C : Winter- Max: 21°C Min: 7°C Average annual Precipitation : 11.1 cms Best Season : July to March STD Code : 0542 Language : Hindi, English GETTING TO VARANASI By Air Manikarnika Ghat (Map Grid D3) The chief cremation ghat of Varanasi, Manikarnika Ghat has numerous pyres burning day and night. It is believed that Lord Shiva himself goes near the burning pyre and carries the soul to heaven. Fuelled by this belief, the ghat receives hundreds of bodies every day. Kashi Vishwanath Temple (Map Grid D3) (Vishwanath Gali; : 2.30am10.30pm) One of the most popular and revered shrines of Varanasi is the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. It is one of the twelve sacred jyotirlingas or the 'lingas of light’. Devotees believe that even a glance of this famed linga can sanctify one’s entire being. In the same complex is the temple of Devi Annapurna Bhavani. Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport or Babatpur Airport in Varanasi operates daily flights to New Delhi, Agra, Khajuraho, Lucknow and Mumbai. It also has international flights to Kathmandu, Colombo and Bangkok-Suvarnabhumi. Gyanvapi Mosque (Map Grid D3) (Nagwa; : sunrise to sunset) By Rail Jantar Mantar (Map Grid D3) (Near Dasashwamedha Ghat) Varanasi with its two railway stations, Kashi Junction and Varanasi Cantonment, connects trains to New Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, Mumbai, Khajuraho, Jammu and Jodhpur. Established by Maharaja Jai Singh in 1737, this observatory is similar to the one in Delhi and Jaipur. It measures local time, sun's declination, altitude, movement of stars, planets and determines eclipses with the help of yantras or mechanical instruments. Some of the important yantras are the Krantivritta Yantra, Digansha Yantra, Samrat Yantra, Prakash Yantra, Ram Yantra, Disha Yantra and Dhruva Yantra. Tickets can be booked easily through the Indian Railways website (www.irctc.co.in) and reservation counters all over the city. Hanuman Jayanti (March-April) Sharing the same complex of Kashi Vishwanath Temple on the Panchganga Ghat, the triple domed Mughal style mosque was built by Emperor Aurangzeb. The mosque and the Kashi Vishwanath Temple stand testimony to the diversity of India. Bharat Mata Temple Durga Temple (Map Grid C4) (Durga Kund Road ; : 5am-12noon & 1pm-10pm) The 18th century temple, placed on the rectangular Durga Kund, can be easily identified by its huge multi-tiered red shikhara. Built by a Bengali queen, the goddess is worshipped with fervour especially during the Navratras. Bharat Kala Bhavan (Map Grid C5) (Inside BHU; : 11am-4.30pm; closed on University holidays; Entry fee: Indians/ SAARC/ Foreigners/ students: `5/ 20/ 40/ 2; Camera/ Shooting: `10/ 1000) A part of Banaras Hindu University, this museum treasures Hindu and Buddhist archaeological remains. Established in 1920, the hall has the sculpture of a man on one leg, one hand on his hip and the other handling a huge stone on his head. The museum houses other galleries like Nicholas Roerich Gallery, Chhavi (painting) Gallery, Mahamana Malviya Gallery, Nidhi (treasure) Gallery, Archaeological Gallery, Sculpture Gallery, Decorative Art Gallery and many others. New Vishwanath Temple Banaras Hindu University (Map Grid C5) One of the internationally accredited institutions, the Banaras Hindu University or BHU, was founded by Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya in 1916, with Dr Annie Besant playing a crucial role. Known as ‘Oxford of the East’, it is spread over 1,300 acres on the south of the city. The architecture of the university considered amongst the marvellous monuments in Varanasi and also houses an airstrip for aeronautical education. FEW WORDS FROM INDIAN LEXICON English to Hindi Address Answer Arrival Baggage Directions Festival Food Friend Fruit Gift Hungry Hurry up Water Price Purchase Question Safe Shop Thank You Toilet Vegetable Your : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : Pata Jawab Pahunchna Saaman Dishayen Tyohar Khana Dost Phal Uphar Bhukha Jaldi Kijiye Pani Mulya Kharidna Sawal Surakshit Dukaan Dhanyavad Jan Suvidha/ Shouchalaya Sabzi Tumhara CONVERSATIONAL PHRASES English to Hindi At the Airport : Airport ki taraf Where is the exit? : Bahar ka raasta kidhar hai? How far is the hotel? : Hotel kitni door hai? What is the rent? : Kiraaya kitna hai? Please call Taxi : Kripaya Taxi bula dijiye Please stop here : Kripaya yaha ruke Place worth visiting : Dekhne layak jagah Want city guide map : Shahar maanchitra chahiye Show me the way : Mujhe raasta bata dijiye Please do booking : Kripaya booking kar dijiye Which is the main shopping centre? : Mukhy bazaar kaunsa hai? I want to send an e-mail : Mujhe Email bhejna hai. It is hot/ cold today : Aaj bahut garmi/ sardi hai An incident from the great epic, Ramayana, Nakkatayya is reenacted in the Nakkatayya Leela at Chetganj. Although it is more popular among the people of Varanasi and the neighbouring towns, it is also recommended to those exploring the heritage of India. Nag Nathaiya Festival (November- December) Nag Nathaiya festival is a unique and popular festival celebrated on the Tulsi Ghat. It marks the famous episode of Kaliya Mardan from Krishna Leela, where Lord Krishna leapt into the water and killed the poisonous Kaliya Cobra (nag) to save the people of Vrindavan. A huge celebration takes place where the same episode is enacted and applauded by large number devotees. SHOPPER’S PARADISE Godowlia Market (Map Grid D3) (Godowlia; : 10am-8pm; Closed on Sunday) Godowlia Market is one of the most popular and busy shopping areas in the city. An array of shops selling different items, from garments to bags, handicrafts to gift items make this market simply stand apart. Beautiful silk and zari sarees, salwar suits and other decorative household products are available here at reasonable prices. Chowk Bazaar (Map Grid C3) (: 10am – 8pm; Closed on Sunday) The Chowk Bazaar has numerous shops exhibiting and selling elegant silk dresses. There are also book stores like Vishwavidyalaya Prakashan, Motilal Banarasidas and Chaukhambha Sanskrit Bhavan boasting of rare collections. It is also known for its flower market and as being a foodie’s paradise. The famous Khoya Gali specialises in condensed milk sweets, while Kachori Gali has the famous Banarasi kachori (flour snack filled with stuffing). For chaat (curd-based snack) lovers, Deena Chaat (Deenanath Kesari) at Nariyal Gali is the place to be. Vishwanath Gali (Map Grid D3) (Near Vishwanath Temple; : 10am8pm; Avoid on Monday) Located in the middle of old Varanasi (Banaras) city, Vishwanath Gali is a puzzle with three entry points. Apart from delicious vegetarian snacks, this is a perfect place for people who have a sweet tooth. Vishwanath Gali is a street shopper's delight, with everything available from backpacks to audiocassettes. The beautifully adorned wood and lacquer sindoor case are a must pick from this market. The saunf-supari, a mouth freshener offered after hot kachoris and delicious jalebis here is as refreshing as the water of the Ganga. ACCOMMODATION Vishwanath Gali By Road Wide range of hotels in all categories are available. Contact nearest tourist office or www.incredibleindia.org Varanasi is connected to other states by National Highway 2, 7 and 56. To travel in and around the city, Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) buses can be hailed from Varanasi Central Bus Station on Sher Shah Suri Marg. FAIRS & FESTIVALS Dhrupad Mela (February) Not for sale Distances of various cities and villages from Varanasi are as follows: Agra 599 kms, Allahabad 129 kms, Ayodhya 217 kms, Bodhgaya 274 kms, Chitrakoot 255 kms, Faizabad 211 kms, Ghazipur 79 kms, Gorakhpur 201 kms, Jaipur 832 kms, Jamshedpur 559 kms, Jaunpur 64 kms, Jhansi 532 kms, Kanpur 327 kms, Khajuraho 376 kms, Lucknow 318 kms, Mussoorie 894 kms, Muzaffarpur 306 kms, Nalanda 333 kms, Patna 252 kms, Rae Bareli 241 kms, Ranchi 431 kms, Sarnath 12 kms. Bharat Kala Bhavan Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple (Map Grid C4) (Nagwa, Sankat Mochan Gali: : 5am-10pm; Photography, mobile phones and carry bags not allowed) Jantar Mantar Gurudwara Bari Sangat Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur (Map Grid D3) (Nichi Bagh; : sunrise to sunset) The earliest and most significant gurudwara at Varanasi is located Founded by Goswami Tulsidas, the holy Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple is believed to grant the wishes and desires of those in distress. According to Vedic Astrology, Lord Hanuman rescues people from the malignant forces of planet Saturn. The India Tourism, Varanasi 15-B, The Mall : +91-542-2501784 (@) : [email protected] (w) : www.incredibleindia.org UP Government Tourist Office Urban Haat, Sanskritik Sankul, Maqbool Alam Road, Chowka Ghat : +91-542-2505033 LIST OF MUSEUMS Ganga Dussehra (June) sunset) In India, the very thin line that often separates myth from truth can be seen at best in Varanasi. In this city, live the 330 million gods that are believed to be worshipped. It is logical, therefore, to say that it is even heavenly than the heavens. It is also said that when Shiva, the god of destruction lets loose the pralaya (the flood that will destroy all creation), Kashi will remain unscathed. It is truly an eternal city! Area The festival of colours in Benaras is celebrated with a great spiritual and traditional fervour. The idols of Lord Shiva and Parvati are taken out in a procession from Kashi Vishwanath Temple and the devotees flock on the roadside throw gulal (dry coloured powder) on them. Devotees celebrate and rejoice at Sankat Mochan Temple on the occasion of Lord Hanuman’s birth. The janmotsav or ‘birthday’ is celebrated for five days, with performances by renowned artistes from all over India. Hanuman Ghat (Map Grid D4) Varanasi is counted among the cities that have been inhabited since ancient times. Popularly known as Kashi, the city is spiritually as vast as the Ganga herself and hence is called the religious capital of India. Varanasi finds mention in epics like the Ramayana, Mahabharata and Jataka tales. Known as the city of Lord Shiva, his benediction can be felt in the belief that whoever dies here attains salvation from the cycle of birth and rebirth. TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRES Holi (March) Dhrupad Mela is a 5-day North Indian classical music extravaganza. Legendary artists perform throughout the night, enlivening the Tulsi Ghat with sounds of an assortment of Indian musical instruments; it culminates when the sun comes up on Ganga. Mahashivaratri (February-March) The city of Lord Shiva celebrates Mahashivaratri festival with great fervour. On this occasion, all Shiva temples of Varanasi are ornamentally embellished. The enactment of Lord Shiva’s marriage sees the baraat or ‘marriage procession’ being taken out from the Mahamrityunjaya Temple, Daranagar and concluding at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Thatheri Bazaar (Map Grid C3) (: 10am – 8pm; Closed on Sunday) Shop till you drop for silk sarees, suits, exquisite fabric materials, embroidered garments, pillow and cushion covers and other garments at this fabric paradise. When you’re tired of garments switch over to the brass works and choose from the wide range and variety available here. Chew the famous Baarasi paan or betel leaf in Babu Nandan’s paan shop which is one of the most eminent paan shops in Varanasi. Do avail some heavy discounts and of course be ready to raise your voice for bargaining. Bansphatak Chowk (Map Grid C3) (: 10am – 8pm; Closed on Sunday) Popular as sari market, Bansphatak Chowk is famous for Banarasi sari shops. The best of lehenga choli, ghagra and other traditional dresses are found here. Don’t forget to visit the state emporium for genuine Banarasi items. Bharat Kala Bhawan (Map Grid C5) Banaras Hindu University : +91-542-2316337/ 2307620/ 2307621 Timings: 11am-4.30pm Closed: Sundays, University Holidays Entry Fee: Indian/ SAARC/ Foreigner/ Student: `5/ 20/ 40/ 2, Camera: `10 Archaeological Museum (Map Grid D1) Sampurnand Sanskrit Visvavidyalaya : +91-542--203961 (M): 09415711655 Timings: 10.30am-4.30pm (August-April), 7.30am-1pm (May-July) Closed: University Holidays Departmental Museum (Map Grid C5) Ancient Indian History, Culture and Archaeology, BHU : +91-542-2307436/ 2367059/ 2368024 Timings: 10.30am-4.30pm; Closed: University Holidays Geological Museum (Map Grid C5) Department of Geology, BHU : +91-542-2316081 Timings: 10.30am-5pm; Closed: Sundays, University Holidays Jnana-Pravaha Kalamandapa (Map Grid D5) Centre for Cultural Studies & Research, South of Samne Ghat : +91-542-2366326/ 2366971 (@) : [email protected] (w) : www.jnanapravaha.org Timings: 11am-5pm; Closed: Monday Parshwanath Vidyapeeth (Map Grid C5) ITI Road, Karaundi : +91-542-2575521 (@) : [email protected] Timings: 8am-12pm, 3pm-5pm (Summer) 10am-5pm (Winter) Closed: Sunday IMPORTANT NUMBERS Ambulance 102 Police 100 Fire Brigade 101 Traffic/ Accidents +91-542-2502073 District Control Room 09415908476 Varanasi City Railway Station Enquiry - General/ Reservations 131 Airport Enquiry +91-542-2400569 SPG Hospital, Kabirchaura +91-542-2333723 SSL Hospital, BHU +91-542-2312542-45 Government Hospital, Shivpur +91-542-2282226 Note: Due to space constraint, all places of interest could not be included here. For more up-to-date-information, contact nearest India Tourism office. Or visit www.incredibleindia.org
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