Is there an entry fee for the BHU campus?

Entry to the university campus itself is free and open to the public. However, the Bharat Kala Bhavan museum requires a small entry fee for both domestic and international visitors.

What is the best time to visit BHU?

Early morning is best to enjoy the greenery and avoid the midday heat. The museum opens at 10:30 AM, so arriving around 10:00 AM allows you to see the temple first or walk the grounds before the museum opens.

Is the New Vishwanath Temple at BHU the same as the one at the Ghats?

No, they are different. The 'New' Vishwanath Temple (VT) is located on the BHU campus and was built by the Birla family in the 20th century, while the original Kashi Vishwanath is in the old city near the river.

Can I use a camera inside the BHU campus?

Photography is generally permitted on the campus grounds, but it is strictly prohibited inside the Bharat Kala Bhavan museum and the inner sanctum of the temple.

Is BHU campus safe for solo travelers?

Yes, the BHU campus is considered one of the safest areas in Varanasi. It is well-patrolled by university security and is frequented by students and families throughout the day.

What should I wear for this walking tour Varanasi?

Dress modestly as you will be visiting a temple and a university. Shoulders and knees should be covered. Comfortable walking shoes are essential as the campus is quite large.

Are there places to eat inside the BHU campus?

Yes, there are several small canteens and a popular complex near the New Vishwanath Temple offering snacks, tea, and south Indian food. For more variety, the Lanka gate area has numerous restaurants.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Escape the chaotic ghats and narrow alleys of Varanasi's old city to explore the serene, tree-lined avenues of Banaras Hindu University (BHU). This self-guided walk invites you into one of Asia's largest residential universities, a 'temple of learning' founded in 1916 by Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya. The campus is a masterpiece of urban planning, featuring a semi-circular layout designed to foster an environment of peace and intellectual rigor. As you navigate this neighborhood stroll, you will encounter a unique fusion of Indo-Saracenic architecture and traditional Indian motifs that define the university's identity. The journey begins at the Bharat Kala Bhavan, a world-renowned museum housing a staggering collection of miniature paintings and ancient sculptures. From there, the walking route takes you through the creative hub of the Faculty of Visual Arts and into the heart of the campus. You will discover the majestic Sayaji Rao Gaekwad Central Library, a gift from the Maharaja of Baroda, which stands as a sentinel of knowledge with its distinctive domes. The spiritual heart of the walk is the Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple, often called the 'New VT.' Unlike the crowded temple in the old city, this white marble structure sits amidst sprawling gardens and boasts one of the tallest temple towers in the world. Concluding your explore independently at the vibrant Lanka Road, you will witness the intersection of academic life and local culture. This area is famous for its student-friendly street food and bustling bookstores. This walking tour Varanasi offers a refreshing perspective on the city, focusing on the architectural heritage and the visionary history of modern Indian education. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast or a history buff, this self-guided adventure provides the space to reflect away from the riverfront crowds.

Highlights

Marvel at the priceless miniature paintings in Bharat Kala Bhavan

Admire the grand Indo-Saracenic facade of the Central Library

Visit the New Kashi Vishwanath Temple with its soaring marble shikhara

Walk through the semi-circular, tree-shaded avenues of the campus

Experience the vibrant student culture and street food at Lanka Gate

Tour Stops (6)

Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum

Start your self-guided walk at the Bharat Kala Bhavan, an essential stop for art lovers. Established in 1920, this museum is a treasure trove of Indian heritage. Inside, you will find an unparalleled collection of Indian miniature paintings, some dating back to the Mughal and Rajasthani schools. The archaeological wing houses stunning stone sculptures, including rare pieces from the Gupta and Kushan periods. The museum reflects the university's commitment to preserving Indian culture as part of a modern education. Take a moment to appreciate the tranquility of the building before you head further into the academic heart of the campus.

Faculty of Visual Arts

A short walk brings you to the Faculty of Visual Arts. This isn't just a department; it's a living gallery. As you pass by, you might see students working on large-scale canvases or sculptures in the open courtyards. The walls here often feature vibrant murals and experimental art, showcasing the next generation of Indian artists. The atmosphere is noticeably creative and relaxed, contrasting with the more formal administrative buildings nearby. This stop highlights BHU's role as a center not just for science and logic, but for the soul and the senses.

Banaras Hindu University Main Campus

As you walk toward the center of the university, notice the unique semi-circular layout. Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya envisioned a campus that mirrored the crescent shape of the Ganges river. The wide, tree-lined roads are named after various benefactors and scholars. You are currently standing in one of the largest residential universities in the world, a city within a city. The architecture here consistently uses red sandstone and arched windows, creating a cohesive aesthetic that feels both ancient and scholarly. It is a space designed for contemplation, far removed from the narrow 'galis' of the Varanasi city center.

Sayaji Rao Gaekwad Central Library

The Central Library is one of the most iconic structures on campus. Built in the late 1920s with a generous donation from the Maharaja of Baroda, Sayaji Rao Gaekwad III, it is a masterpiece of Indo-Saracenic design. Look up at the majestic central dome and the intricate stone jaali work. Inside, it houses over a million volumes, including rare manuscripts written on palm leaves. The library serves as the intellectual anchor for the thousands of students who call this campus home. Its grand scale was intended to symbolize the weight and importance of knowledge in a newly independent-minded India.

Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple (BHU Campus)

Commonly known as the 'New VT' or Birla Temple, this structure is the spiritual heart of BHU. Construction began in 1931 and took over three decades to complete. The temple's tower, or shikhara, is approximately 250 feet tall, making it one of the tallest in the world. Unlike the original Kashi Vishwanath temple, this one is open to people of all castes and creeds, reflecting Malaviya's progressive vision. The interior is made of white marble and features the entire text of the Bhagavad Gita engraved on its walls. The surrounding gardens offer a perfect place for a quiet break during your neighborhood stroll.

Lanka Road

Exit through the main university gate to find yourself on Lanka Road. The transition from the quiet campus to the energetic pulse of Lanka is immediate. This is where the university meets the city. It is a legendary spot for street food; don't miss the famous 'cold coffee' or the hot 'kachoris' served at the local stalls. Lanka is also a hub for bookstores and traditional clothing shops. This is the perfect place to end your walking route, grab a snack, and watch the vibrant mix of students, locals, and pilgrims that make Varanasi so unique.

Frequently Asked Questions

A comprehensive walk including stops at the museum and temple typically takes about 3 to 4 hours. The distance between the main gate and the museum is roughly 2 kilometers on flat terrain.