Introduction

A leisurely stroll through Old Varanasi is something most avid travelers look forward to. For there's no better way to experience this ancient city than take in the sights and sounds, the history, and the pathos of an area that forms the heart of Varanasi! Located roughly between the Dashaswamedh Ghat and Godaulia Chowk (square), the Old City can be approached through its labyrinthine alleys. From the wee hours the place is abuzz with activity. Pilgrims, priests, travelers, local residents, shop owners selling their offerings make for an eclectic mix. Start early. Walk through Vishwanath Gali (lane) and pay a visit to Kashi Vishwanath Temple.

The temple is open from the early morning to late in the evening. This done, you'll come across Jnana Vapi Mosque built over a temple by Aurangzeb. This is where one comes face to face with the city's bloody history. Right from Qutub-ud-din Aibak in 1194 to Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, many Islamic invaders and rulers played their part in plundering this holy city. But with every wave of destruction came a phase of rebuilding. Varanasi remains the world's oldest continuously inhabited city. It has outlasted all those who sought to squash its spirit.

Writes scholar Diana L Eck in her book 'Banaras, City of Light': “There is another important difference between Banaras and its contemporaries (Athens, Jerusalem and Peking): its present life stretches back to the sixth century BC in continuous tradition. If we could imagine the silent Acropolis and Agora of Athens still alive with the intellectual, cultural and ritual traditions of classical Greece, we might glimpse the remarkable tenacity of the life of Kashi. Today, Peking, Athens and Jerusalem are moved by a very different ethos from that which moved them in ancient times, but Kashi is not.”

Just walk through the maze of alleys and lanes, and you'll come back better for the experience. And should you lose your orientation at any point, just head towards one of the Ghats by the Ganga. They are never too far away. Before heading back spend some time at Dashaswamedh Ghat. It is a great place to observe people going about their lives -- early morning bathers, priests going through their puja rituals, people doing meditation and yoga, boatmen rowing tourists from one ghat to another… It offers many photo opportunities. Raghubir Singh's coffee table book - 'Banaras: Sacred City of India' - should serve as a good guide for those interested in photography.

Special Attributes

Experience the culture of the world's oldest living city

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Dress modestly

Connectivity

In the heart of town, plenty of options available

Enjoyed by

Culture, history and religion enthusiasts

Exposure

The narrow labyrinthine alleys make sure you are never too long under the sun

Avoidable Season

July, August

Facilities

Basic, plan accordingly

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction.

Tip

Dress modestly and respect local culture

Type of site

Old town