Varanasi is not just famous for its countless temples and exquisite handicrafts it also holds some of the most iconic figures of Indian history within. Being an education hub since the age of silk route, till date Varanasi attracts scholars from all over India and beyond. Through this walk, you will explore a 100 years old University, three amusing museums and some magical moments.
1. Banaras Hindu University
Established in 1916 by Mahamana Madan Mohan Malviya, Banaras Hindu University is Asia’s biggest university. Spread over 1300 acres it conduct graduation and research courses on more than 100 subjects. The design of the campus resembling the rising sun depicts its virtue.
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2. Malviya Bhawan
Former residence of Mahamana Madan Mohan Malviya Ji, the founder of BHU, later turned in to a centre of studies and research on Malviya life and work. There are also Geeta-Yoga Library, Yoga Sadhana Kendra and Geeta Samiti who organises regular morning lectures and special Geeta discourses on Every Sunday.
10 am -4:30 pm; Closed on: University Holidays; Direction
3. Bharat Kala Bhavan
One of the most important Museum of Uttar Pradesh, Bharat Kala Bhavan houses thousands of artefacts, sculptures, miniature paintings mostly of Indian origin, for display and research purposes. The Museum is continuously working with University researchers and exploring new archaeological sites.
10 am -4:30 pm; Closed on: Sunday/University Holidays; Direction
4 .New Viswanath Temple
At a few distance located the New Viswanath Temple which is more than 50 years old ! Built mostly in marble, the temple is jewelled as one of the tallest temple tower in India. Just outside, take some time to go through the gift shops around the temple and try the famous cold coffee with hot Samosas here.
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5. Central Library
Central Library of Banaras Hindu University holds one of the biggest collections of ancient Indian manuscripts and exclusive books. Along with a gigantic collection of academic and other books, it also has a facility of E-resources. The century old building, itself will attract you with all its architectural grandeur.
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6. Paternal House of Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri
Lal Bahadur Shashtri was the 2nd Prime Minister of India and a much loved senior politician who had contributed in India’s freedom movement before the independence in 1947. He spent his early days here in a small house which is now a Museum, displaying belongings of Shashtri’s family and their simplest household.
10 am -5 pm; Closed on: Monday; Direction
7. Ramnagar Fort and Museum
Situated on the eastern bank of Ganges; Ramnagar Fort is the residence of the Royal family and former King of Banaras for centuries. A part of the fort was turned into a museum which is the repository of belongings of the royal family. The yard of Vyas Temple of the fort is a perfect spot to relish the view of the Ghats of Varanasi.
10 am -5 pm (winter), 9 am – 12 noon & 2 pm – 5 pm (summer), Closed on: Monday; Direction
Take A Detour
Akhara
BHU has an age old wrestling club in the campus which is located near to the ‘Dept. of computer science’ of IIT (BHU). People usually practice here daily till 10 am at morning and after 4 pm in evening.
Lassi
Locals of Varanasi often travel to Ramnagar just for having a glass of this mouth watering, heart melting Lassi at this apparently average looking shop. Don’t miss it or the walk will remain incomplete.
Ravidas mandir
Sant Ravidas who born and lived here in Varanasi during the 15th to 16th century CE.
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