Top 10 Hidden and Heritage Places in Varanasi You Should Explore

 

Hidden and heritage places in Varanasi

Varanasi, also known as Banaras or Kashi, is one of the oldest living cities in the world. The city is famous for the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, and its ancient ghats. But Varanasi is much more than its famous tourist attractions.

If you explore the narrow galis and quieter corners of the city, you can discover many historic, cultural and lesser-known places. Some of these places tell stories about the rich heritage and history of Kashi.

In this article, I am sharing 10 hidden and heritage places in Varanasi that you can explore beyond the city's most famous attractions.

1. Manikarnika Ghat :-

Manikarnika Ghat is one of the most well-known and historic ghats in Varanasi. It is traditionally associated with Hindu cremation rituals and holds an important place in the religious and cultural history of Kashi. The ghat is often described as a place where cremation ceremonies continue throughout the day and night.

For visitors, Manikarnika Ghat offers a glimpse into an important part of Varanasi's traditional culture and spiritual life.

Manikarnika Ghat- The burning ghat of Kashi

2. Alamgir Mosque at Panchganga Ghat :-

This mosque stands above Panchganga Ghat in Varanasi. The area is known for its religious and historical importance. The mosque has a distinctive architectural style, and from here you can enjoy beautiful views of the Ganga and the surrounding ghats.


Alamgir Mosque at Panchganga Ghat


3. Nepali Temple at Lalita Ghat :-

Nepali Temple, also known as Kathwala Temple, is located near Lalita Ghat in Varanasi. The temple is known for its beautiful wooden architecture and unique design. It was built in the traditional Nepali style and is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

The peaceful surroundings and distinctive architecture make this temple an interesting place to explore while visiting the older parts of Varanasi. 

Nepali Temple in Varanasi

4. Man Mahal Observatory :-

Man Mahal Observatory is a historic site located near Man Mandir Ghat in Varanasi. It is also known as the Jantar Mantar of Varanasi. The observatory was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II in the early 18th century.

It contains several astronomical instruments that were used to study the movement of the sun, moon and stars. Today, it is an interesting place for visitors who want to explore the scientific and architectural heritage of Varanasi.


Man Mahal Observatory

5. Ramnagar Fort :-

Ramnagar Fort is a historic fort located on the eastern bank of the Ganga, opposite Varanasi. It was built in the 18th century by Maharaja Balwant Singh, the Kashi Naresh. The fort is made mainly of red sandstone and reflects the royal heritage of Varanasi.

Inside the fort, visitors can explore a museum containing old royal belongings, weapons, vehicles and other historical objects. Its riverside location and historic architecture make it an interesting place to visit near Varanasi.


Ramnagar Fort 

6. Scindia Ghat :-

Scindia Ghat is one of the historic ghats of Varanasi, located along the Ganga. The ghat is known for its partially submerged Shiva temple, which can be seen near the river. The temple has become one of the distinctive sights of this part of Varanasi.

The peaceful riverside setting and historic surroundings make Scindia Ghat an interesting place to explore while discovering the lesser-known sides of the city.


Shiva Temple at Scindia Ghat

7. Chet Singh Fort :-

Chet Singh Fort is a historic fort located near Shivala Ghat in Varanasi. It is associated with Maharaja Chet Singh, who played an important role in the history of Varanasi during the 18th century.

The fort is also connected with the conflict between Chet Singh and the British in 1781. Today, its historic setting near the Ganga makes it an interesting place to explore while discovering the lesser-known heritage of Varanasi.


Chet Singh Fort


8. Bharat Kala Bhavan :-

Bharat Kala Bhavan is a museum located inside Banaras Hindu University (BHU) in Varanasi. It has a rich collection of paintings, sculptures, archaeological objects, textiles, coins and other artworks.

The museum is a great place to learn about the art, culture and history of India. If you are interested in history and traditional art, Bharat Kala Bhavan is worth exploring during your visit to Varanasi.


Bharat Kala Bhavan - BHU


9. Lolark Kund :-

Lolark Kund is an ancient sacred water tank located near Tulsi Ghat in Varanasi. It is known for its unique architecture and religious importance. The site is associated with traditional beliefs and is visited by devotees, especially during religious occasions.

The deep stepped structure of the kund makes it a distinctive heritage site in Varanasi. It is an interesting place to explore if you want to discover the city's lesser-known historical and cultural sites. 

Lolark Kund

10. Tomb of Lal Khan :-

The Tomb of Lal Khan is a historic monument located near Rajghat in Varanasi, close to Malviya Bridge. It is associated with Lal Khan, who served as a minister during the time of Maharaja Balwant Singh.

Built in the 18th century, the tomb is known for its simple sandstone architecture and historic importance. It is a lesser-known heritage site that offers a glimpse into the history of Varanasi beyond its famous temples and ghats.

Tomb of Lal Khan - Rajghat



Loved these hidden places?

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