Академический Документы
Профессиональный Документы
Культура Документы
INTRODUCTION
The word Kashi originated from the word Kas which means to
shine. Steeped in tradition and mythological legacy, Kashi is the
'original ground' created by Shiva and Parvati, upon which they stood
at the beginning of time. Varanasi is the microcosm of Hinduism, a
city of traditional classical culture, glorified by myth and legend and
sanctified by religion , it has always attracted a large number of
pilgrims and worshippers from time immemorial. To be in Varanasi is
~2~
an experience in itself. an experience in selfdiscovery an eternal
oneness of the body and soul.
Varanasi
Area 4,036 Sq KmS
Population 37,82,949
Temperature Summer : Max : 460C, Minimum 320C
Winter : Max : 150C, Minimum 050C
Best Season September March
STD Code 0542
~3~
THE HOLY CITY VARANASI
HISTORY OF VARANASI
~4~
The land of Varanasi (Kashi) has been the ultimate pilgrimage spot for
Hindus for ages. Often referred to as Benares, Varanasi is the oldest living
city in the world. These few lines by Mark Twain say it all: "Benaras is older
than history, older than tradition, older even than legend and looks twice as
old as all of them put together". Hindus believe that one who is graced to die
on the land of Varanasi would attain salvation and freedom from the cycle of
birth and re-birth. Abode of Lord Shiva and Parvati, the origins of Varanasi
are yet unknown. Ganges in Varanasi is believed to have the power to wash
Ganges is said to have its origins in the tresses of Lord Shiva and in
Varanasi, it expands to the mighty river that we know of. The city is a center
of learning and civilization for over 3000 years. With Sarnath, the place
~5~
philosophy, culture, devotion to Gods, Indian arts and crafts have all
flourished here for centuries. Also a pilgrimage place for Jains, Varanasi is
With a number of temples, Mrs. Annie Besant chose Varanasi as the home
for her 'Theosophical Society' and Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya, to institute
Patanjali, the preceptor of Ayurveda and Yoga, was also affiliated with
Varanasi, the holy city. Varanasi is also famous for its trade and commerce,
especially for the finest silks and gold and silver brocades, since the early
days.
Varanasi has also been a great center of learning for ages. Varanasi is
Hindi language and honored authors such as the ever-famous novelist Prem
Chand and Tulsi Das, the famous saint-poet who wrote Ram Charit Manas.
Aptly called as the cultural capital of India, Varanasi has provided the right
platform for all cultural activities to flourish. Many exponents of dance and
music have come from Varanasi. Ravi Shankar, the internationally renowned
Sitar maestro and Ustad Bismillah Khan, (the famous Shehnai player) are all
sons of the blessed city or have lived here for major part of their lives
~6~
VARANASI CITY MAP
~7~
VARANASI TEMPLES
Kashi Vishwanath
The most sacred temple of Varanasi, Vishwanath temple
is devoted to lord Shiva. The temple is near Dashashwamedh
ghat, in the heart of old Varanasi.
~8~
The construction of the temple was destroyed by
Aurangzeb in 18th century, to construct a mosque. Though
the new building is not as elaborate as the temples of South
India and Orissa, the sense of devotion in the temple is very
strong. The temple is one of the holiest temples for a Hindu.
Durga Temple
The Durga temple at Durgakund, is a beautiful temple.
The temple is built next to a lake called Durgakund lake. The
temple is very famous among the locals.
The Bharat Mata Mandir, is unusual in the terms of presiding deity. The temple
does not have idols of any god, but a large relief map of India, carved out of Marble. The
temple was inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi, and lies 3 Km from Kashi, or the old
Varanasi.
~9~
New Vishwanath Temple
The New Vishwanath Temple, in the premises of
Banaras Hindu University, is dedicated to lord Shiva, and is a
replica of the original Vishwanath temple. The temple is built
in white marbles, and was designed by Madan Mohan
Malviya, founder of the University. The temple is open to
people from all caste and religion, unlike other temples of
Varanasi. The huge campus of New Vishwanath Temple is a
delight to the eyes of visitor.
Kaal Bhairav Temple
~10~
For at least a thousand years, Vishvanath has been the preeminent
Shiva Linga in Varanasi. Vishvanath is also called Vishveshvar. Both names
mean "the lord of all".
Shiva is worshipped at five principal aratis during the day, from early
in the morning until late at night. In the evening shringara arati, the linga is
elaborately decked with flowers. At any time of day, however, worshippers
will come, chanting "Har Har Bum Bum!" "Har Har Mahadev!" "Jaya Jaya
Vishvanath Shambho!" "Om namah Shivaya!" They drench the linga with
~11~
water, cover it with flowers and bilva leaves and bend down to touch it with
their hands.
Although the interior of this important temple is neither very large nor
very elaborate, the atmosphere of worship and devotion is powerfully
impressive. The sights and sounds and smells of the temple, the shouting and
chanting and clanging of bells, even the jostling of the crowds, all contribute
to the aura of sanctity.
Not only does Hindu worship make use of the senses in directing them
toward the divine, but the Hindu sensibility appreciates the intensity of
devotion brought to place by the crowds of worshippers. As one of the
priests of Vishvanath temple explained, "Countless people have come here
with worshipfull hearts and have centered their devotion here at Vishvanath
for hundreds of years. By virtue of that history, this place is special. There is
a saying, 'Pilgrims make the tirtha.' So this linga is significant partly because
so many people have centered their devotion here for so long."
Kedar means the field where the crop of liberation grows. Therefore,
that place became famous as Kedar, both in Kashi and in the Mountains.
The original Kedar is high in the Himalayas in the area called Uttara
Khanda (North Country). There at an altitude of some 12000 feet sits
Kedarnath.
~12~
impressive ghat high above the water's edge. From the river, the temple is
distinguished by its vertical red and yellow stripes.
Kedar is the religious focal point of the southern part of the city. There
is a quite and deep piety almost palpable here and it is uninterrupted by the
noisy throngs of pilgrims who hurry from Dashashvamedha Ghat to
Vishvanath and its surrounding Temples. The pilgrims from outside don't
generally go there. They don't know about it and the guides don't take them
there as the pujaris in the temple don't give any payment for bringing
pilgrims.
Durga Temple
~13~
temple is located at a distance of 4 kilometers from Godaulia in Varanasi,
India.
Kashi-Vishwanath Temple
~14~
IMPORTANT TEMPLES OF VARANASI
~15~
ANNAPURNA TEMPLE
Near the Kashi Vishwanath temple, there is a nice temple of Devi
Annapurna , believed as the "Godess of
Fooding".
SANKATHA TEMPLE
KALBHAIRAV TEMPLE
DURGA TEMPLE
~16~
Commonly called the Monkey temple, it
was built in the 18th century. Although it is
one of the best-known temple. There is nice
stonework done of the temple , it is the nice
example of NAGRA Shilp. Godess DURGA
is believed as the symbol of Strength and Power which govern the
entire world. There is a pond adjacent to the temple called
"Durgakund".
SANKATMOCHAN TEMPLE
Besides the Assi river stream, on the way of Durga Temple to Banaras
Hindu Temple this well known temple of Lord Hanuman is situated.
Lord Hanuman is also known as "Sankatmochan" the god who
protects from the troubles. This temple is founded by Goswami
Tulsidas. This temple is also known as "Monkey" temple, as lot of
monkeys are there inside the premises.
~17~
was gifted by the nationalists Babu Shiv Prasad Gupta (Barat Ratana )
and shri Durga Prasad Khatri, leading numismatists and antiquarians.
Varanasi Ghats
~18~
Ghats at Varanasi are the Dasaswamedh Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat,
Harischandra Ghat, Kabir Ghat and Assi Ghat.
DASASVAMEDHA GHAT
This is the most busiest and the ancient most referred ghat. According
to the myth related to Divodasa, Lord Brahma (" the creator" in the
Hind trinity gods) performed the ten-horses sacrifice (dasa-
asvamedha) at this site. The historical sources infer that at this site the
revivalist Hindu dynasty of the second century, the Bhara Siva Nagas
had performed ten-horses sacrifice. The KKh (52.1-10:61.38) records
many verses describing glory of this ghat. The temple of
Sulatankesvara, Brahmesvara, Varahesvara, Abhaya Vinayaka, the
Ganga ("goddess"), and Bandi Devi are closeby at the top of the ghat.
These shrines are linked to several important pilgrimage journeys.
The southern part of the ghat was made pucca in 1740 by Bajirao
Pesava-1, and late in c.1774 by Ahilyabai Holkar of lndore.
~19~
PRAYAGA GHAT
~20~
MANIKARNIKA GHAT
Two ancient sacred waterfront sites make this ghat, viz Sidha
Vinayaka and Swargadvaresvara. Among the is popularly called as "
the great cremation ground" (Mahasmasana). A myth mentions that
Lord Siva gives Taraka mantra ( "Prayer of the crossing") in the ear of
the dead, therefore the form of Siva as Tarakesvara, (the temple is at
the ghat), is propitiated whenever a Hindu dies. The name
Manikarnika derives its origin from the dropping rings of Siva dyring
His transcendental dance here. The historical sources mention this site
in the Gupta inscriptions of C.E.4 th century. This is the first ghat made
pucca by the two king brothers in C.E.1302; and was rebuilt and
repaired in 1730 under the patronage of Bajirao Pesava, and in 1791
Ahilyabai Holkar rebuilt the entire ghat. Again in 1872 repairing and
renovations were done.
~21~
Puskarni Kunda). Presently the Kunda surrounded by a cast-iron
railing , is some (60 ft) at the top, narrowing to about (20ft) it) at the
waters edge (Eck 1982: 239). Visnu and Laksmi images are located in
the small shrine inside the Kunda on the western wall; while a series
of dozen small niches containing Siva lingams also exit there. Along
the sacred route, on the ghat itself, are the symbolically footprints of
Visnu (Carana Paduka), set in a circular marble slab. For 7,000 years
Visnu was said to have performed tapas on this spot, and through the
centuries millions of Hindus have sprinkled it with the holy Ganga
water and adorned it with flowers. A plate from Prinseps which the
subtitle calls "The holiest spot in the sacred City".
The closeby place to this holy spot has been reserved for the
cremation of a few selected, especially the Maharajas of Kasi (Eck
1982: 246 ).
This ghat area has ancient reputation as a cremation ground; saya Lord
Siva: Having become Time itself, I destroy the world here, O Goddess
!" (Padma Purana 1.33.14). However, it is not clear when this site was
fully accepted for cremation. Moreover, the NP(11.48.67), the MP
(182.23b-24) and the KKh (30.84-85) describe its glory in terms of
cremation and death rituals. The raised platform attached to the ghat is
used for death anniversary rituals. Between Jalasayi and Manikarnika
ghat in the stream lies fourteen watertrithas, among which important
are Visnu, Bhavani, Skanda, Taraka, Avimuktesvara and Pasupati.
~22~
"It is built on a terrace overlooking the river, and is approached by one
of those steep, staircased streets, leading from the ghats up into the
city, which suggest a town of southern ltaly or Spain. Clambering up a
side staircase, you pass under the Naubata Khana, where musicians
are chanting praises of the goddess with strange but not unpleasing
accompaniments. On the right side of the entrance is a fine bronze lion
of Durga, and on the left Sivas bull. The quiet and cleanliness inside
are a relief from the bustle, sloppiness, and dirt, and the somewhat
sordid atmosphere of more popular Benares shrines".
Assi Ghat
~23~
Tirtha" one gets punaya of all the Tirthas ( religious places) by taking a dip
here. Infact this ghats was extended from Assi to Bhaidaini ghata ealier . In
Gaharwal Danpatra(11th 12th cent.) reference of Lolark ghat is given As
famous Aditya Pitha (place of sun worksing).During 16 th , 17th Cent.
.A.D.Sant Tulasi Das has written Ramcharitmanas here, After 19 th
Cent.A.D.Asi Ghat was divided in five Ghats i.e.Asi, Gangamahal (First)
Rewan, Tulasi and Bhadaini. Followers of Hindu relegions , take sacred dip
here, particularly in Chaitya (March/ April) and Magh (Jan/Feb.). Other
important occasion are soler/ lumar eclipse, Ganga Dashahra. Probodhoni
Ekadashi, Makar Shankranti, etc.
Tulsi Ghat :
It is named affter the great poet Tulsi (1547-1622 A.D.) who wrote
Ramcharitmanas. Earlier it was know as Lolark ghat as evident in Gaharwa
Danpatra and Girvanapadamanjari (17cent.A.D.). Letter in 1941 Baldeo Das
Birala Made this Ghat pucca. This Ghat is associated With a number of
important activities such as bath of Lolarkkunda (to get sons and their long
life), bath to get rid of leprosy, During Hindu lunar month of
Kartika(Oct./Nov.) Krishna lila is also performed here with great
conventional Rites, Music concerts, Wrestling, and spiritual discourses are
regular features here.
Karnataka Ghat :
~24~
This ghat was build by the state of Mysore (now know as Karnataka)
in early twentieth century (c.1910). There lies a site are shrine. There also is
a shrine of Ruru (" the Dog") Bhairava, one of the 8 th Bhairavas protecting
the city from 8th directions .
Kedar Ghat :
~25~
This ghat is meticulously eulogized in the KKh ( 77.8-10,47-54:also
KKm). This is the site of Haramapapa Tirtha. At the top exists the
temple of Kedaresvara, the patron deity of the southern sacred
segment. The attached shrines and sacred sites are: Tarakesvara,
Gauri Kunda and Vitanka Nrsimha. In late Sixteenth century
Kumarasvami, a devotee of Dattatreya made a monastery attached to
the Kedaresvara, temple. According to a Gahadavala inscription
( c.C.E.1100). Svapnesvara Ghat wad existing close by this ghat, but
now it has no representation.
Mehta Ghat :
Pancaganga Ghat :
This is one of the five water-front sacred most sites, and believed To
be the meeting point of five drains,viz. The Ganga, the Yamuna, the
Sarsvati the Kirana and the Dhupapapa, among which only the first
eleventh century text and also in the KKh (59;116-144). This was the
~26~
to whom Kabira (1398-1623) a great reformist bhakit poet, accepted
Sripatirao Pesava, and Pant Pririnidhi of Andha. There are eight water-
Jnanahrda and Pancanada. There are two monasteries at the ghat, viz.
At the ghat, close to the riverfront, there are "the dozens of three-sided
cubicle shrine rooms that open out into the river. Some contains a
lingam or an image, such as the lanky bara and used primarily for
ghat:
"The ghat is broad and deep,and exceedingly strong. Its stairs and
turrets are all of stone, and from their great number, afford
are low and hollow, and are employed as temples and shrines. Each
~27~
one contains several deities, which are, mostly, emblems of Siva. An
with idols, and would scarely imagine that he was walking upon the
would at once perceive that the turrets are open towards the river, and
The Ganga -arati (offering oil lamps) at the time of sun rise and sun
set is the most attractive site and scene at this ghat, which is
at this ghat special festivity and sacred bathing are performed here on
the cost, or materials and rewards (in cash, or kinds, or both) for the
structure to hold the lamps lighted on the night of full moon in the
month of Karttika.
~28~
SARNATH
~29~
the Buddha delivered his second sermon. the most sacred of the monuments
in Sarnath.The Deer park in Sarnath is decently maintained. Entry fee for
archaelogical museum: Indians: Rs 5/- foreigner: $2 Timings:10.00AM to
5.00PM
As such there are no stay options in Sarnath as most of the pilgrims visit
Sarnath as a part of their Varnasi pilgrimage. Some of the following are the
stay options and Varanasi: Taj Ganges:Phone:0542-2503001-19 @INR4250
8500 Hotel Clarks: Phone:0542-2501011-20 @INR4000 5500 Hotel
Sarnath
~30~
tradition of the Sangha, for popularizing the teachings of the great ascetic,
worldwide.
Gautam Buddha with his five disciples formed the first Sangha
alongwith Yasa of Varanasi and his 54 friends. The beginning of the
celebrated Mantra, 'Buddham Sharanam Gachhami', owes its origin to
Sarnath.
The three Jewels "I go for refuge to the Buddha, I go for refuge to the
Wheel of Law, I go for refuge to the Sangha" first laid down here, have
remained unchanged ever since. Hence rightly, every Buddhist Pilgrim after
Bodhgaya, endeavors to be blessed with a visit to Sarnath in his life time.
~31~
Tourist Information
Sarnath Varanasi
Attractions at Sarnath:
~32~
Sarnath has a lot of Buddhist monuments and edifices to offer.
Dhamekha stupa, Chaukhandi stupa are few of the monuments in Sarnath,
Varanasi. Various schools of Buddhism from Japan, China, Thailand, and
Burma are situated at Sarnath, Varanasi. Around the Buddhist temple there is
a park. This park is conserved by a Buddhist society called Mahabodhi.
Buddhas tooth relic is conserved inside the temple.
Sarnath Museum:
~33~
Varanasi is a centre of education and civilization for ages. It is also a
remarkable tourist spot for its cultural heritage, historical background which
attracts several tourists at Varanasi.
SARNATH
~34~
Sarnath along with Lumbini, Gaya and Kushinagar forms the Buddhist
to the life, times and the philosophy of Lord Buddha. Lumbini is the place
where Lord Buddha got birth and Gaya marks the place where he got
enlightened. While Sarnath and Kushinagar are the places where Lord
place where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after he got enlighten in
Bodh Gaya. A beautiful Stupa marks the actual spot where the sermon was
delivered. It is called Dhamek Stupa. The place is a must visit for every
tourist flocking India. Apart from that Sarnath has other attractions too. The
most interesting among those is the famous Ashoka Pillar. The pillar is one
of the many erected by Emperor Ashoka through out his entire kingdom after
~35~
he converted to Buddhism. Sarnath museum is another tourist destination
worth visiting in Sarnath. The place treasures some of the most valuable
Sarnath is well connected to the rest of India through airways and railways.
The nearest airport and railheads are Varanasi that is well connected to cities
~36~
TRANSPORTATION
Varanasi Airport
Varanasi is very well connected by air. The nearest airport to this city
is the Babatpur airport which is just about 25 km from the city center. It
takes about 45 minutes, to reach the place on a vehicle. There are regular
flights to and from Chennai, Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata. Jet Airways,
Kingfisher Airlines, Indian Airways and Spicejet are some major airways
~37~
Type of Activity : Other
Varanasi Railway
~38~
There are trains to Varanasi from all major cities in India. We went
two and has a door which can be locked. Also available is 2AC- sleeping 4
with curtains for privacy. The trains in India are a reliable and safe way to
get from one destination to another. They are usually comfortable, and we
have never have any problems. One bit of advice - Always take along a toilet
It is easy to reach Varanasi by train and the best. You can take a train
largest train junction and is worth a see in itself. So if you fail to get a
confirmed ticket in a train to Varanasi, just check out a train to Mughal Sarai.
All trains passing through this station halt here, for 15 to 30 minutes. There
are hundreds of trains from all part of India to Mughal Sarai every day. From
carriage motorvan) to Varanasi. It will take just 30 minutes and you will also
~39~
enjoy the ride. However, such a carriage is not for those travellers carrying
huge luggage.
~40~
~41~
OBJECTIVE
Varanasi is a holy city. It has always attracts the foreign tourist and
main objective of this research report is to see what are the reasons behind
attraction in Varanasi.
~42~
~43~
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
Graphical Representation (Includes Bar Graph, Line Graph & Pie Chart)
~44~
~45~
DATA ANALYSIS
Sarnath 20 40%
~46~
Q.2. Are you satisfy with traffic condition of Varanasi city.
Yes 08 16%
No 40 80%
~47~
Q.3. What is the condition of cleaning of Varanasi city.
Yes 06 12%
No 42 84%
~48~
Q.4. Are you feel secure yourself in this city.
Yes 20 40%
No 25 50%
~49~
Q.5. Are you satisfy with your agent/guide-
Yes 18 36%
No 22 44%
~50~
Q.6. Which type of hotels are you like-
5 Star 05 10%
4 Star 13 26%
3 star 15 30%
~51~
Q.7. Are you happy with services provided by hotels in Varanasi-
Yes 16 32%
No 29 58%
~52~
Q.8. How is your experience in this city-
good 27 54%
Bad 20 40%
~53~
Q.9. Are you will come again in Varanasi.
Yes 21 42%
No 15 30%
~54~
~55~
CONCLUSION
The majority of tourist are coming to visit Varanasi from abroad i.e. 60
percent.
Maximum no. of tourist would like to visit in Varanasi one time i.e.
50 percent.
~56~
~57~
SUGGESTION
1. Ghats are great attraction for tourists, but we find that ghats are
very dirty. Thought Govt. has given valuable contribution in cleaning
Ghats but capital is not properly utilities. If should be utilized
properly.
~58~
~59~
STUDY OF ANCIENT PLACES AWARENESS AND ITS THEIR
VISITING IN VARANASI
Dear Sir,
request you to participate in it where I assure you that this survey is part of
PERSONAL INFORMATION
Name Mr./Mrs./Ms.....
Address......
....................................................................................
Contact no ...............................................
~60~
QUESTIONNAIRE
~61~
~62~
BIBLIOGRAPHY
3. U. P. Tourism Office.
Websites:
www.varanasicity.com
www.google.com
News Paper:
Hindustan Times
Dainik Jagaran
~63~