Nearby Tourist Pilgrimage Places in Varanasi

• Varanasi, one of the oldest living cities in the world, is not only renowned for its spiritual and religious significance but also for its proximity to several other important tourist and pilgrimage destinations. If you’re planning a visit to Varanasi, exploring nearby places can enrich your spiritual journey. Here’s a list of significant tourist and pilgrimage sites near Varanasi, India:

  1. Sarnath

  Distance from Varanasi: Approximately 10 km (6 miles)

  Significance: Sarnath is one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites, where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. The site is home to ancient ruins, stupas, and the Dhamek Stupa, along with the Sarnath Archaeological Museum.

  Highlights:

  Dhamek Stupa: The sacred site where Buddha preached his first sermon.

  Sarnath Museum: Houses a rich collection of Buddhist artifacts, including the famous Lion Capital of Ashoka.

  2. Kashi Vishwanath Temple

  Distance from Varanasi: Located in Varanasi itself.

  Significance: One of the 12 Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is a central landmark of Varanasi. It is considered one of the holiest places for Hindus.

  Highlights:

  Shiva Lingam: The central deity of worship in the temple.

  Ganges Aarti: A mesmerizing ritual performed at the Dashashwamedh Ghat every evening.

  . Vindhyachal

  Distance from Varanasi: Approximately 70 km (43 miles)

  Significance: Vindhyachal is an important Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Goddess Vindhyavasini, considered to be one of the 51 Shakti Peethas. The temple is situated amidst the Vindhya mountain range, surrounded by scenic beauty.

  Highlights:

  Vindhyavasini Temple: The primary temple, believed to have been built by the Pandavas during their exile.

  Ashtabhuja Temple: Another revered temple dedicated to the Goddess.

  4. Chunar Fort

  Distance from Varanasi: Approximately 40 km (25 miles)

  Significance: A historic fort located on the banks of the Ganges River, Chunar Fort has a deep association with Indian history, having been ruled by various dynasties, including the Mughals.

  Highlights:

  Chunar Fort Ruins: Known for its architecture and history.

  Views of the Ganges: A beautiful location to experience a panoramic view of the river.

  5. Prayagraj (Allahabad)

  Distance from Varanasi: Approximately 120 km (75 miles)

  Significance: Prayagraj is a major Hindu pilgrimage site, known for the Triveni Sangam (the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers). It is also home to the Kumbh Mela, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world.

  Highlights:

  Triveni Sangam: The holy confluence of the three rivers.

  Kumbh Mela: A festival that attracts millions of devotees every 12 years.

  Allahabad Fort: A grand Mughal-era fort on the banks of the Yamuna River.

  6. Ayodhya

  Distance from Varanasi: Approximately 200 km (125 miles)

  Significance: Ayodhya is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in India, believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama. The city is home to several ancient temples and is a significant destination for Hindus.

  Highlights:

  Ram Janmabhoomi: The birthplace of Lord Rama.

  Hanuman Garhi: A popular temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman.

  Kanak Bhawan: A temple dedicated to Lord Rama and his consort Sita.

  7. BodhGaya

  Distance from Varanasi: Approximately 250 km (155 miles)

  Significance: Bodh Gaya is the place where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree. It is one of the holiest places in Buddhism and attracts pilgrims from all over the world.

  Highlights:

  Mahabodhi Temple: The site where Lord Buddha meditated and attained enlightenment.

  Bodhi Tree: The sacred tree under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment.

  8. Ramnagar Fort

  Distance from Varanasi: Approximately 14 km (9 miles)

  Significance: Ramnagar Fort, located on the banks of the Ganges, is a historical fort known for its architecture and its connection to the royal family of Varanasi.

  Highlights:

  Ramnagar Fort Museum: Houses historical artifacts, costumes, and weapons.

  Ram Leela: The grand enactment of Ramayan during the festival of Dussehra.

  Conclusion:

  In addition to Varanasi’s sacred ghats and temples, the nearby towns and regions offer a variety of spiritual experiences for travelers and pilgrims. Whether you are interested in Buddhist history, Hindu mythology, or just enjoying the serenity of the Ganges and its surrounding places, these nearby tourist and pilgrimage spots will enhance your spiritual journey in India.