What is Kashi?
Kashi is an ancient and holy city of India, which is also called the spiritual capital. This city has been the center of knowledge, religion and salvation since time immemorial. Kashi is famous as an important religious and cultural place not only in India but all over the world.
Other names
Kashi is known by many names, the main ones being:
Varanasi – due to being located between the rivers Varuna and Asi.
Banaras – the ancient and popular name of Varanasi.
Anandavan – meaning “Forest of Bliss”, where the soul experiences peace and bliss.
Avimukta Kshetra – a place which Lord Shiva himself has never left.
Location
Kashi is located in the state of Uttar Pradesh and is situated on the banks of the holy river Ganges.
State: Uttar Pradesh
River: Ganges River
Geographical Coordinates: approx 25.3176° N, 82.9739° E
Religious significance
Kashi is a very important place for three major religions — Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism:
Significance in Hinduism
Kashi is considered to be the city of Lord Shiva.
It is believed that one attains salvation after death here.
The world famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple is located here.
It is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas.
Significance in Buddhism
Lord Buddha gave his first sermon at Sarnath near Kashi after attaining enlightenment in Bodh Gaya, which is called Dharmachakra Pravartan.
Sarnath is a very sacred place in Buddhism.
Significance in Jainism
Kashi is also the birthplace of Lord Parshvanath, the 23rd Tirthankara of Jainism.
Many ancient Jain temples are located here.
Spiritual Significance of Kashi
Why is Kashi called the “City of Light“?
Kashi is called the “City of Light” because it is the center of knowledge, self-awakening and salvation.
The “light” here is not only physical, but spiritual – the one that removes the darkness of the soul.
The word “Kashi” itself is believed to have originated from the metal “Kaash”, which means to be bright or to spread light.
This is the city where one gets the real knowledge of both life and death.
Relation of Lord Shiva and Kashi
Kashi is called the city of Lord Shiva himself.
According to the scriptures, Lord Shiva has vowed to never leave Kashi.
The Kashi Vishwanath temple in Kashi is one of the main Jyotirlingas of Shiva.
It is believed that at the time of death, Lord Shiva himself recites the “Tarak Mantra” in the ear, which gives salvation to the soul.
Kashi – Moksha Dham
Kashi is said to be the place of attaining salvation.
It is believed that whoever takes his last breath here does not get rebirth – he is freed from the cycle of the world.
Manikarnika and Harishchandra Ghat are the two main cremation grounds, where funeral rites are performed and salvation is sought.
Avimukta Kshetra
“Avimukta” means – that which has never been left.
Kashi is called Avimukta Kshetra because Lord Shiva himself never leaves it.
This is such a holy area where the complete knowledge of life, death, and soul can be experienced firsthand.
12 Adityas, Saptpuris, and 51 Shakti Peethas
Kashi is one of the 12 Aditya sites where the Sun God is worshipped.
It is also one of the Saptpuris — the seven holy cities that are believed to give salvation:
Ayodhya
Mathura
Haridwar
Kashi
Kanchi
Ujjain
Dwarka
There are also many Shakti Peethas located in the area near Kashi. There are believed to be 51 Shakti Peethas in total, although some texts mention 108 Shakti Peethas. Of these, only 51 Shakti Peethas are considered to be prominent and popular. Which are associated with the parts of Goddess Shakti — and Kashi is known as their spiritual center.
Major Temples of Kashi
Kashi is called the city of temples. Here, a new temple is found on every street, every turn. The number of these temples is in thousands, but there are some temples which are especially important spiritually, historically and culturally.
Major Temples
1. Kashi Vishwanath Temple
This temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva.
It is called the temple of “Lord of the World”.
Situated near the river Ganges, this temple is considered to be the door to salvation for the devotees.
The sins of many births are washed away by just visiting here.
2. Annapurna Devi Temple
This temple is dedicated to the goddess of food form of Mother Parvati.
It is believed that even Shiva himself becomes a beggar without Annapurna.
Every year during Diwali, special bhandaras and darshans are held in Anna Kshetra.
3. Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple
This temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and is famous as the “remover of troubles”.
This place is associated with Goswami Tulsidas ji, who composed “Hanuman Chalisa” here.
4. Kal Bhairav Temple
Kal Bhairav is considered the Kotwal (city protector) of Kashi.
Without the permission of Bhairav ji, no one is considered entitled to see Shiva.
The “Bhairav Ashtami” festival here is very special.
5. Mrityunjay Mahadev Temple
This temple is dedicated to the form of Shiva who conquers death.
It is believed that offering water in this temple gives relief from incurable diseases.
The water of the well located here is considered to be full of medicinal properties.
Lesser-known but sacred temples
1. Bharat Mata Temple
This temple is dedicated to Bharat Mata in the form of Goddess.
There is no idol here, but an engraved map of India is engraved on marble.
This temple is a symbol of national unity and cultural pride.
2. Vishalakshi Temple
This temple is considered to be a Shakti Peeth made from the falling of a gem from the ear of Mother Sati.
This is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas.
Maa Vishalakshi Devi is worshipped as the protector power of Kashi.
3. Trilochan Mahadev Temple
This is a very ancient form of Shiva, who has three eyes – symbols of knowledge, devotion and anger.
This temple has been the main center of worship of Mahatmas and ascetics.
4. Durga Kund Mandir
This temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga and has a holy kund (reservoir) located near it.
A large number of devotees visit here especially during Navratri.
The architectural style of the temple is influenced by Bengali architecture.
Ghats of Kashi
Kashi is a city situated in the lap of Mother Ganga, where both life and death flow together. The water of Ganga on the ghats here purifies not only the body but also the soul. There are a total of 84 ghats in Kashi, and each ghat has its own mythology, significance and energy.
Sacred Ghats
1. Dashashwamedh Ghat
The most prominent and lively ghat of Kashi.
A grand Ganga Aarti is organized here every day, in which hundreds of devotees participate.
It is believed that Brahma ji performed ten Ashvamedha Yagyas here, hence its name Dashashwamedh.
2. Manikarnika Ghat
This ghat is considered the most sacred for cremation.
It is believed that the soul gets salvation directly after death here.
This is a crematorium that burns continuously – the pyre never goes off.
3. Harishchandra Ghat
This is also a crematorium associated with Satyawadi King Harishchandra.
It is said that King Harishchandra himself cremated the bodies here.
This ghat is considered a symbol of truth, sacrifice and religion.
4. Assi Ghat
This ghat is located at the confluence of the Ganga and Assi rivers.
Yoga, meditation, and bhajans are organized here early in the morning – it is called “Subhe Banaras”.
The atmosphere here has a wonderful balance of both peace and power.
5. Tulsi Ghat
This ghat is associated with Saint Tulsidas.
It was here that he composed Ramcharitmanas.
The fragrance of culture, devotion and literature still flows from Tulsi Ghat.
6. Panchganga Ghat
Here five rivers — Ganga, Yamuna, Saraswati, Dhutpapa and Kirana — meet (mythological belief).
This ghat is considered to be the center of learning, penance and esoteric meditation.
Activities on the Ghats (Spiritual Activities)
Ganga Aarti
Every evening a grand Ganga Aarti is held at Dashashwamedh Ghat and Assi Ghat.
The wonderful confluence of lamps, mantras, bells and waves of Ganga water resonates the soul.
Pind Daan and Tarpan
Pind Daan and Tarpan rituals are performed at Manikarnika and Harishchandra Ghats.
These rituals are performed for the peace and salvation of the soul of ancestors.
Morning Sadhana and Walking on the Ghats (Spiritual Walks)
Early in the morning, there is a wonderful atmosphere of yoga, meditation and bhajan on the ghats.
Devotees take bath on the ghats, offer prayers to the sun and then start the religious journey.
Historical background of Kashi
Kashi is not just a city, but a civilization that has been alive since ancient times. Its soil contains not just history, but the soul of religion, philosophy and philosophy. This city is eternal, immortal, and is a complete text in itself.
Ancient history and mythological origin
Kashi is considered to be the oldest city created by Brahma ji.
It is described in the Shiva Purana that this is the same land where Lord Shiva himself resides.
It is called “Avimukt Kshetra”, i.e. the place which Shiva never left.
It is believed that even the Ganges touches Kashi on the orders of Shiva.
Mention in Vedas, Puranas and Mahabharata
Kashi is described in Rigveda, Atharvaveda, and Yajurveda.
The Kashi section of Skanda Purana describes in detail the religious importance and temples of this city.
It is mentioned in the Mahabharata that the Pandavas also came to Kashi and worshiped Lord Shiva.
This city has been the confluence of knowledge, devotion and salvation.
Travels of Lord Buddha and Mahavira
Lord Buddha gave his first sermon in Sarnath, located a short distance from Kashi – this place is very sacred for Buddhism.
Mahavir Swami, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism, also stayed in the Kashi area several times and preached.
Thus Kashi has been a major center of Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism alike.
Role in the freedom struggle
Kashi has contributed a lot to education and awareness.
Banaras Hindu University (BHU) was founded by Mahamana Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya, who was a great warrior of the freedom struggle.
Revolutionary ideas and cultural movements kept taking birth in the streets of Kashi.
The writers, journalists, musicians and saints here awakened the public for independence.
British period and development after independence
During British rule, Kashi existed as a state (Banaras State).
It was known as a royal, religious and cultural center.
After independence, the cultural and spiritual form of Kashi became even more prosperous.
Today it is famous all over the world for religion, philosophy, music, art and tourism.
Centre of Education and Knowledge – Intellectual Splendour of Kashi
Kashi is called the city of not only salvation but also knowledge. Here knowledge flows like a river – in the form of Vedas, Sanskrit, astrology, Ayurveda, music and philosophy. This city has given the light of education to the world for thousands of years.
Kashi – Ancient Centre of Vedic Education
Since the Vedic period, Kashi has been an important centre of Vedas, Upanishads, Grammar, and Tantra Vidya.
The sages, saints and acharyas here used to educate disciples in the Shruti and Smriti tradition.
This has been the land of countless Gurukuls imparting education in religion, ethics, rituals and spirituality.
Gurukuls and Sanskrit Schools
Hundreds of traditional Gurukuls and Sanskrit Pathshalas are still active in Kashi.
Students here study scriptures, Vedas, Puranas, astrology and grammar in depth.
The Acharyas and Pandits here are adept in Panchang creation, Sanskar Anushthan, and logic.
Banaras Hindu University (BHU)
BHU was founded by Mahamana Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya in 1916.
Today it is the largest residential university in Asia.
Education is provided here in every field – science, arts, Ayurveda, philosophy, music, medicine, technology.
Thousands of scholars, scientists and thinkers have emerged from BHU, who gave knowledge to India and the world.
Sampurnanand Sanskrit University
This university is a major center of Sanskrit education, whose roots are linked to the 18th century.
Here research-based teaching of Sanskrit literature, Nyaya, Vedas, Tantra, Mimansa, Jyotish and Ayurveda takes place.
This university is a beautiful amalgamation of traditional knowledge and modern research.
Contribution to Ayurveda, Music and Astrology
Ayurveda:
Ayurveda has been taught in Kashi since the Vedic period.
The Ayurveda Faculty of BHU still teaches ancient medical science with modern research.
Kashi is a pioneer in Ayurvedic medicines, Panchkarma and lifestyle science.
Music:
Kashi is the mother of Hindustani classical music.
Great musicians like Pandit Vishnu Narayan Bhatkhande, Ustad Bismillah Khan, and Pandit Ravi Shankar have come from here.
The Music Department of BHU preserves and promotes Indian music.
Astrology:
The Pandits of Kashi are considered to be the best astrologers of India.
The knowledge of Panchang, Muhurta, Yagya, Janam Kundli, and planets and constellations has been going on here for generations.
Degrees and research work in astrology are also done in Sampurnanand University.
Culture and Traditions of Kashi
Kashi is not just a land of religion or salvation, it is a living saga of art, culture and tradition. The culture here has been teaching people the art of living for centuries.
Music: Banaras Gharana (Hindustani Classical Music)
The Banaras Gharana is a major branch of Hindustani classical music, famous for Thumri, Dadra, Tappa, Kajri and Bhajan.
Legends like Ustad Bismillah Khan (Shehnai player), Pandit Chhannulal Mishra, and Girija Devi are the products of this land.
The sound of riyaaz can be heard even in the streets here – this city is a pilgrimage of swara and raaga.
Dance: Kathak
Kashi has played an important role in the origin and development of Kathak dance.
The Banaras Kathak Gharana, which is famous for expressions and rhythmic foot movements, is the identity of this place.
Kathak dancers like Guru Sitaramji Maharaj and Birju Maharaj also have their roots in this land.
Chitrakala: Miniature Paintings and Handicrafts
The traditional paintings of Kashi include miniature paintings depicting religious stories, deities and royal courts.
The paintings on the walls of temples and manuscripts still attract art lovers.
Handicrafts: Banarasi Sarees, Brass Art and Pink Meenakari
Banarasi Saree – One of the most famous and precious sarees of India, decorated with silk, zari and embroidery.
Handlooms still run in the streets of Kashi giving life to sarees for generations.
Pink Meenakari – A fine and beautiful jewellery art, in which traditional designs are made in pink color on silver.
Brassware – Temple bells, diyas, idols and poojan items are made by the artisans here.
Languages: Bhojpuri, Hindi, Sanskrit
The main language spoken in Kashi is Bhojpuri, which is the soul of the people here – emotional, humorous and lively.
Hindi is the contact language here, while Sanskrit is the main language of scholars and religious rituals here.
The language of Kashi has the sweetness of both culture and music.
Major festivals celebrated in Kashi
The festivals of Kashi reflect the spirit of religion, culture and celebration. Every festival here is an experience — visual, audio and spiritual.
1. Dev Deepawali
The festival of Ganga Aarti of lamps, celebrated on Kartik Purnima.
More than 10 lakh lamps are lit all over the ghats.
It is said that the gods come to Kashi on this day to take a bath in the Ganga, hence it is called “Devon ki Deepawali”.
The most grand event takes place at Dashashwamedh Ghat.
2. Mahashivratri
The night of the marriage of Lord Shiva and Mata Parvati, it is celebrated with great pomp in Kashi.
Darshan and Jalabhishek take place throughout the night at the Kashi Vishwanath temple.
Devotees perform bhajan-kirtan, fast and night vigil.
Shiv baraat takes place – which is seen as a spiritual tableau.
3. Makar Sankranti (Ganga Snan)
Devotees take a dip in the Ganga when the sun moves north.
Thousands of devotees take a dip in the ghats of Kashi before sunrise.
There is also a festival of kite flying and eating sesame-jaggery.
4. Ganga Mahotsav
This festival dedicated to the glory of the river Ganga lasts for five days.
There is music, dance, cultural programs, boat race and lamp lighting.
It is organized by the Uttar Pradesh government.
5. Holi and Diwali
Holi: Holi of Banaras is full of gulal, bhang, folk songs and laughter.
Diwali: Temples, ghats and houses decorated with lamps; magical shadow of light everywhere.
6. Nag Nathiya Leela
Dramatic presentation of Kaliya Nag Mardan Leela by Lord Krishna.
The event takes place at Tulsi Ghat, and the role of Lord Krishna is played by the artist himself.
Thousands of people come to see it – it is a wonderful amalgamation of art, religion and devotion.
Buddha Purnima and Ram Navami
Buddha Purnima: The birth anniversary of Gautam Buddha is celebrated with special prayers and meditation sessions.
Ram Navami: The birthday of Lord Rama is celebrated with tableaus, recitations and aartis in temples.
Special thing:
Every day is a festival in Kashi. Here celebrations are not just about the date, but the soul.
Scientific and Astronomical Aspects
Kashi is not just a pilgrimage site, it has also been the center of ancient scientific consciousness of India – especially in the field of astronomy and timekeeping.
1. Ancient Astronomical Instruments – Man Mandir Ghat
Man Mandir is a historical building located on the Ghat which has astronomical instruments installed.
This observatory was built by Jai Singh II (18th century, King of Jaipur).
This place is considered to be the astronomical observatory center of Kashi.
📍 Main instruments:
Samrat Yantra: Time measurement (up to hour and minute level)
Nadi Valya: Instrument to measure the angle of the sun
Digsha Yantra: To find the direction and position of stars
Jaya Prakaat Yantra: To know the movement of planets
👉 All these instruments work only on shadow and the movement of the sun without any modern technology — and are still functional today.
2. Study of time and planets in medieval times
The scholars of Kashi used instruments and calculations to measure the movement of the sun, moon, constellations, and planets.
The principle Jyotishacharyas (astrologers & astronomers) here used to create Panchangs based on the constellations.
Kashi also used methods like “Ghatiyantra” (water clock) and sundial for measuring time.
3. Concepts related to death, salvation and time cycle
Kashi is considered as “Mukti Kshetra” – where death is not considered the end but the door to salvation.
It is believed that whoever dies in Kashi does not get reborn but attains salvation.
This concept is linked to the Kalachakra (Cosmic Time Cycle), where the soul is liberated from the cycle of birth and death.
Skanda Purana says:
“Kaashyaam maranam muktih” – that is, death in Kashi = salvation.
This city symbolizes both the physical and spiritual aspects of time – where the speed of the sun is measured and so is the speed of the soul.
Kashi = the meeting point of the earth and the universe
Kashi has been called a micro-cosmic space, that is, it is a symbolic form of the universe.
The cultural structures, the location of temples, and religious rituals here are connected to the planets, stars, and time.
In short, in Kashi
there is devotion on one hand, and the depth of astronomy on the other.
Here time is calculated not only by the clock, but by the experience of the soul.
Connection with Religions
1. Hinduism
Kashi is considered the most sacred pilgrimage in Hinduism.
This is the favorite city of Lord Shiva – he is called “Kashi Ke Kotwal” here.
Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirlinga is located here – one of the 12 major Jyotirlingas.
Shakti is also present here – Vishalakshi Temple is counted among the 51 Shaktipeeths.
It is mentioned in Ramayana that Lord Shri Ram and Lakshmana traveled through Kashi.
Infinite sages and saints did penance, bhajan and enlightenment here.
2. Buddhism
Sarnath, located near Kashi, is the place where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon (Dhamma Chakk Pavatta).
It is from here that the Buddhist Sangha was established and the teaching of Ashtangik Marg began.
Sarnath is located in —
📍 Dhamekh Stupa
📍 Ashoka Pillar (National Emblem of India)
📍 Moolgandhakuti Vihar and Museum
Kashi and Sarnath — together form the roots of Buddhism.
3. Jainism
Kashi is the birthplace of the 23rd Tirthankara Bhagwan Parshvanath.
He is believed to have been born in the twentieth century BC.
It has a huge collection of Parshvanath Jain temples and Jain pilgrimage sites.
Kashi is a spiritual powerhouse for Jains.
4. Sikhism
Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the first Guru of Sikhism, visited Kashi.
He had spiritual dialogues with pundits and sadhus in Kashi and preached the message of the unity of God.
His sermons spread the message of religious unity and opposition to caste discrimination.
5. Islam and Sufi Tradition
Kashi is a wonderful amalgamation of Islamic culture and Hindu tradition.
There are also dargahs of Sufi saints who gave the message of love, brotherhood and peace.
The influence of the famous Raskhan and Kabirdas, who are symbols of religious harmony between the two societies, can be clearly seen in Kashi.
Many Muslim artisans are associated with the Banarasi saree and Meenakari industry.
Kashi: A symbol of unity
“Kashi is not only the city of Shiva, but it respects every religion.” Here bells and azaans, Gurbani and Dhammapath, all resonate on the same land.
Nearby Sacred Places
Sarnath
Lord Buddha gave his first sermon here – “Dhamma Chakra Pravartan”.
This is one of the holiest places of Buddhism.
Chunar Fort
This historical fort located on the banks of Ganga has witnessed many kings and British rule.
Ramnagar Fort
This fort has been the residence of the Maharajas of Banaras. It also has a royal museum.
Vindhyachal
Temple of Maa Vindhyavasini located on the Vindhya mountain range – Shaktipeeth and huge crowd during Navratri.
Kaithi (Markandeya Mahadev)
Here sage Markandeya pleased Lord Shiva.
This place located at the confluence of Ganga and Gomti is considered very sacred.
Local Life and Economy
Silk Weaving
The Banarasi sarees of Kashi are world famous – their fine zari and embroidery are recognized worldwide.
Street Food
The Kashi Chaat, Tomato Chaat, Malaiyo, Thandai, Sarang Mithai, every corner is full of taste.
Boat Tourism
Boat travel in the Ganges in the morning and evening is popular for viewing the chain of ghats and experiencing the aarti.
Local Bazaars
Vishwanath Gali – Puja items, Rudraksha, Shivling, traditional clothing
Thatheri Bazaar – Brass and copper utensils
Godaulia and Laxa – Colourful Banarasi markets
Spiritual tourism and heritage economy
Pilgrims, tourists and researchers have been visiting this place for centuries — nourishing the local life.
Travel and Stay
Best Time to Visit
October to March: The weather is pleasant
Dev Deepawali, Mahashivratri, Ganga Mahotsav – special experiences are had during these festivals
🚆 How to Reach
✈️ Airways: Babatpur Airport (Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport)
🚆 Rail routes: Varanasi Junction, Kashi Station, Manduadih
🚗 Roadways: Connected to many cities via NH-2 and NH-31
🏠 Where to Stay
🔸 Dharamshalas – economical and suitable for pilgrims
🔸 Ashrams – for sadhana and meditation
🔸 Hotels and Resorts – from luxury to budget hotels
✅ What to do / what not to do Don’ts)
Do’s:
Maintain peace on the ghats
Perform worship with devotion
Respect local culture
Don’ts:
Do not throw soap or garbage in the Ganga
Take care of emotions while clicking photos
Do not talk loudly at holy places
Interactive Visuals and Digital Add-ons
Interactive map of ghats
Digital map of 84 ghats with information about each ghat – history, importance, activities.
360° Temple Darshan
360° view of Kashi Vishwanath, Annapurna, Kaal Bhairav etc. temples – users can have darshan from mobile itself.
Ganga Aarti Video
Morning and Evening Aarti Recordings — with background music
Meditation Sounds of Ganga Bank
Sounds of calming waves, mantras and bells — for mental peace
Historical Timeline of Kashi
From ancient times to present — an interactive timeline of Kashi
Stories of Saints
Stories and teachings of Kabir, Tulsidas, Ravidas, and other saints
Mythological Legends
The Legend of King Divodas
The only king who made Kashi an earthly kingdom. Lord Shiva was wooed to return.
The Legend of Manikarnika Kund
The Kund created by Shiva and Parvati — also said to be the gateway to the mortal world.
Stories of Shiva’s incarnation
In Kashi, Shiva appeared to the devotees in many forms – Visheshwar, Bhishan, Kaal Bhairav, etc.
Protection from apocalypse
It is believed that even during the apocalypse, Lord Shiva keeps Kashi supported on his trident – it never gets destroyed.
Digital Section – for Website/App
Virtual Tour of Kashi
3D walkthrough: Ghats, temples, lanes – all in digital format
Daily Live Darshan
Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Ganga Aarti – live video streaming
Audio Guides
For foreign tourists – in Hindi, English, French, Japanese
Kashi Gyan Quiz
Learn history, culture, and mysteries through interesting questions
“Plan your Pilgrimage” tool
Places to visit, routes, hotels, puja, and food planning in one click
Conclusion – Kashi: A Living Embodiment of Eternity
Kashi is not just a city, but it is a confluence of faith, history, culture, and consciousness. It is a land where the distinction between life and death vanishes, where every street reverberates with a tale, and where every ghat offers the soul the path to salvation.
For thousands of years, Kashi has not only nurtured religious faith, but it has also been a major center of science, astronomy, music, art, and philosophy. Its saints, scriptures, temples, markets, and ghats have created a culture that is still alive today, beyond time.
Whether it is the delicate workmanship of Banarasi sarees, the divinity of Ganga Aarti, or the deep reverence for Shiva – Kashi definitely gives some spiritual gift to every traveler.
Even today, when the world is running towards modernity, Kashi gives us the message of staying connected to our roots.
It teaches us that where even death becomes a celebration, how divine will be the definition of life.
Kashi is eternal, true and everlasting.
