Serene Views That Capture the Old-world Charm of Varanasi

There's always someone taking a dip in the Ganga, another sipping on some chai and yet another just taking a nap. You should really try the lemon tea that you get on the ghats.

Walking through the narrow streets of Varanasi is also a very different experience. Since this is one of the oldest living cities on the planet, the architecture is also very old and unique. There are thousands of temples in Varanasi with ancient architecture.

A private boat ride on the Ganga river can cost you around Rs 300 to Rs 700 or more. The ride gives you a view of the entire network of ghats from a distance.

You can gaze at the ghats while you sit, relax and spend some time with seagulls. If you get lucky and the boatman is talented enough to sing, then he will sing some songs for you during the ride.

The Nepali temple in Varanasi was built by the king of Nepal between 1800-1804. The architecture of this temple stands in contrast to the other buildings and temples here. It is distinctly Nepalese or oriental in style.

Manikarnika Ghat is a very popular ghat in Banaras. It is supposed to be the holiest ghat in Varanasi. According to Hindu tradition, this place is very sacred for the souls whose bodies are cremated here. People bring the deceased bodies of their loved ones to be cremated here because it is believed that this place was not created by humans but by Lord Shiva.

When people die here or are cremated here, they directly go to heaven and don't get trapped in the cycle of reincarnation. It is believed that salvation or moksh is attained here. The fires here have been burning for more than thousands of years, as over 300-400 bodies are burnt here every single day.

Ganga aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat is one of the most special experiences of Varanasi. The Ganga aarti is performed at many ghats along the Ganga river but the one that takes place on Dashashwamedh Ghat is the main aarti.

Every single day, be it hail or storm, several priests come together and face the Ganga river to offer prayers to the Goddess Ganga. A lot of people from all over India and the world attend the aarti and honestly, it is full of positive vibes. Everybody chants along to the bhajans, everyone offers love and respect to the river Ganga. It is indeed the perfect way to end your day. The Ganga aarti is something you must experience when you are in Varanasi.