Varanasi Diaries

BANARAS is the oldest city situated in India and It is known as by different name i.e., Kashi, Banaras and Varanasi since time immemorial. As Mark Twain says,"Benaras is older than history, older than tradition, older even that legend and looks twice as old as all of them put together". The city of Kashi illuminates positive and divine energy in an individual life. The city does not need prior introduction for providing moksha (Freedom from the cycle of birth and rebirth) Kashi naam.

Sanket Mochan Mandir is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and established by the great Saint Tulsidas who wrote Ramcharitmanas. Photography is strictly prohibited inside the temple. Avoid Tuesday & Saturday due to overcrowding. Locker facility is available at the entry gate so don't use nearby shops. Puja stuff and prasad is available inside the temple premises. Timing:5-12 A.M & 3-10 P.M. 

Mani Mandir is situated near the Durgakund area and is reconstructed in recent years. It comprises of 150 Shivlings and a huge shivling inside the temple premises. Timing as same as above temple.

Tulsi Manas Mandir is dedicated to Siya Ram and is made of concert white marble stones. Verses from the Ramcharitmanas were engraved on the walls of the temple premises. Timing: 5-12 A.M & 4-10 P.M.

Tridev Mandir is situated near the Tulsi Manas Mandir. Three mandir is located inside the temple premises. Timing: 6-12 A.M & 3-10 P.M. 

Durga Mandir is located in Durgakund are and is one of the oldest temples in Varanasi.    Photography is prohibited inside the temple.  Timing: 5-12 A.M & 3- 10 P.M.                     

Dashashwamedh Ghat is popular for Evening Aarti which held with great pomp and   joy. An individual feels utmost spiritual and positive energy just by attending it.                                                  

  

 Assi Ghat is famous for morning program known by the name of Subh-e- Banaras and          for bathing purposes. I observed that peoples from different places irrespective of their background came under the obedience to river Ganga. This shows the triumph of unity in diversity.

Kashi Vishwanath Mandir are surrounded by corridor that connects with Lalit Ghat. Photography is strictly prohibited inside the temple premises. For speedy darshan, you can book the time slot on the spot itself or online beforehand. It costs (300 rupees) for Indians and (600 rupees) for foreigner. 

B.H.U is located in Lanka area. Pandit Madanmohan Malviya was the founder of Banaras Hindu University (B.H.U). One can notice 3-degree differences in temperature inside and outside the campus. B.H.U Mandir or Birla Mandir was established by Birla Group in 1960 which is located inside the campus compound.  

Bharat Kala Bhavan is located in Banaras Hindu University, a museum of Indian Arts and Culture. It has 1,04,376 artifacts till now. Unfortunately, I had reached late so be mindful about the timing of museum. Please note the timing- 10:30 A.M to 4:30 P.M. It doesn't mention on any websites or on google though I personally went there although my luck sucks that day.