Vishwanath Gali Varanasi: A Must-Visit Ancient Street
Walk Through the Vishwanath Gali Varanasi for an Immersive Cultural and Historical Tour
The famous Varanasi streets hold unique importance to the locals and tourists alike. Streets like the Vishwanath Gali Varanasi display the history of the city. They show the remnants of one of the oldest cities in the world preserved till now.
So if visiting Varanasi, visiting this street is a no-brainer! But before you set out on your journey to venture through the streets, let us find out about the street some more. Here are the details and stories about Vishwanath Gali for you.
How Did the Vishwanath Gali Come into Existence?
Now the exact dates of many locations in Varanasi are still a mystery. The same goes for the Vishwanath Gali since nobody can pinpoint the date. But from the scriptures and books, we can assume a rough period.
A certain mention of this Varanasi Gali is during the reconstructions of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. The original construction and multiple constructions are hundreds of years old. With people flocking by the temple to sell goods, a street naturally formed. It might not have been the same as it is today, but somewhat similar.
So even the street you walk today has been there for at least hundreds of years (keeping in mind multiple renovations). So this history makes the street possibly one of the oldest streets you would have ever walked through in your life.
Why The Gali Is a Cultural Asset?
The Vishwanath Gali is bustling with activity 24/7, 365 days. The main reason is that it is in the most populated and commercial center of the city. Another reason for the massive popularity is due to it being close to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
Since the Gali got formed due to the popular Kashi Vishwanath Temple, it also has its name after it. To this day, the temple is what attracts huge crowds even at the Gali. However, the Gali itself is interesting and enjoyable enough for people to keep coming back to it.
Many festivals and events also pass through the Vishwanath Gali, if not taking place there. All in all, both religiously and culturally, the street is essential. Hence, for tourists, it gets rated as one of the best places to visit in Varanasi.
All The Events That Take Place at The Vishwanath Gali
Since it is such an important street to the people, it is also a place where you can witness festivals. From religious festivals to more casual events, you can see them all in action in the Vishwanath Gali Varanasi.
Especially festivals like Rangbhari Ekadashi and other religious festivals take place through the street. Additionally, many festivals get celebrated at the Dashashwamedh ghat at the end of the Gali.
Hence, you might be able to witness a festival or event going on at the Gali. Aside from it, many temples and locations in the Gali would also have minor events throughout the year. You can check the exact dates of the festivals if you wish to attend one.
Where to Find Delicious Food?
If you’re visiting the Gali, you must also try the street food in Varanasi. The Gali has many religious spots and shops, but it is also home to famous street food stalls. So let us see the best food stalls at Vishwanath Gali to satiate your hunger.
Baba Vishwanath Chaat Corner- Golgappas and Chaat
Famous among locals for its spicy golgappas, this stall offers various cuisines. If you try out their food, do try their Aloo Tikki or Pani golgappas for the best experience.
Blue Lassi- Lassi
Apart from the Ramnagar lassi, the Blue Lassi stall is also immensely popular for its take on the local delicacy. Here, you can enjoy a cold glass of thick and sweet lassi to beat the heat.
Deepak Tambul Bhandar- Paan
If you want to try Paan and happen to be in the Vishwanath Gali Varanasi, visit this stall. You can get the classic paan, Meetha paan, and other varieties of paan to try out.
Nearby Tourist Spots
If you’re looking for the best places to visit in Varanasi, a fair share of these are quite close to the Gali. You can visit these religious and historical spots by the Vishwanath Gali once you have finished touring the street:
Kashi Vishwanath Temple
After going to the Vishwanath Gali, you can enter the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor. The temple is one of the main attractions of the city, and hardly a walk away from the Gali.
Dashashwamedh Ghat
Varanasi’s most popular ghat is located at the end of the Vishwanath Gali. Due to the renovation of the temple, it has become even easier to reach.
Jantar Mantar
A well-celebrated historical monument in the city is Jantar Mantar. Conveniently located near the Gali, you can witness this observatory after you’re done visiting the street.
Nearby Shopping Spots
If you’re coming to the streets in Varanasi, you would want to take something back too. From souvenirs to exquisite clothes, you can find many shops in the Gali. Here are the top three shops to visit when in the street:
Saree Shops
A pure Banarasi Silk Saree is carefully crafted by the artisans of the craft. These clothes are unique to Varanasi and a must-buy.
Religious Items Stores
If you are visiting the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, you can get flowers for the lord and rosaries for yourself. The religious shops sell many holy items perfect as a souvenir of the ancient city.
Handicraft Stores
Independent handicraft stores littered across the street specialize in many items. You can buy wooden toys, jewelry, and other items all made by hand to take with you.
When and How to Visit Vishwanath Gali?
The best time to visit the street would be in the early morning or late afternoons. The early morning visits will save you from the heat, and the ghat would be perfect to visit. In the evening, you can enjoy the chaat and visit the temple.
To reach Vishwanath Gali, you can first catch public transportation like an auto to Godowlia. Then, you can continue on foot to reach the entry to the Gali. Since the crowds are large, being on foot will help you move swiftly through the street.
Conclusion
While visiting Varanasi, you cannot miss out on the ancient footprints of the city. Since the city has many historical locations for its visitors, you can add Vishwanath Gali Varanasi to your to-visit list.
The old yet nostalgic street will help you take a peek into the rich culture of Varanasi. You can also experience stunning food, temples, and products present in the Gali. So for the experience unique to the city, don’t forget to give this old street a visit.
Frequently Asked Question
Is the Vishwanath Gali very crowded?
Yes, due to being a popular local and tourist spot, the street is bustling with activity. Especially during festive seasons, the crowds on the street may be overwhelming for some visitors.
How can you reach Vishwanath Gali?
The best way to reach the Gali is on foot since the crowds can make the way for vehicles too narrow. Alternatively, you can board public transport or your vehicle and reach the Gali.
Is there anything to do near the Vishwanath Gali?
Yes, you can enjoy some extraordinary local food in the Vishwanath Gali. Apart from food, you can also get amazing souvenirs and visit popular tourist spots within a walking distance.
