Introduction

If you have an inherent quest for knowledge, visit the hallowed BHU. One of the largest residential universities in the world, the sprawling campus covers 1350 acres towards the southern part of town. Nationalist leader Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya's cherished project, it played a stellar role during the independence movement by stroking the fire for freedom in young and old alike. Panditji chose Varanasi as the site because of its centuries-old tradition of learning, wisdom and spirituality.

Born at Prayag (Allahabad) in 1861, Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya was a multifaceted personality. A leading freedom fighter, he strove for an inclusive society and used education as his means to achieve this objective. His vision was to blend the best of Indian education in the long tradition of ancient universities like Takshashila and Nalanda, with the best tradition of modern Western universities. Great minds and personalities of the time like Annie Besant, Mahatma Gandhi and Rabindranath Tagore among many others supported Panditji in his quest. With an impressive alumni list that includes poet Harivansh Rai Bachchan, singer-composer Bhupen Hazarika, American philosopher Robert M. Pirsig, astrophysicist Jayant Vishnu Narlikar among many others, the university continues to live up to Panditji's vision and ideals.

While at the campus you could also check out the New Vishwanath Temple, the air strip-cum-flying club and a fine museum called Bharat Kala Bhavan. The university has a 927-bed hospital associated with the medical college, and a printing press to boot.

Special Attributes

BHU is one of the largest residential universities in the world

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Dress is whatever you find comfortable.

Connectivity

Well connected by local transport

Enjoyed by

People interested in history, culture and education

Exposure

A sprawling campus, some degree of exposure is bound to happen

Avoidable Season

July, August

Facilities

Basic, plan accordingly

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction.

Tip

It is a big campus so allocate reasonable time for this outing

Type of site

University