Varanasi
On the banks of the Ganges in northern India,
lies the colorful holy city of Varanasi, an important historical, cultural and religious for over 5000 years. Varanasi is the site of most important Hindu pilgrimage in the world. Mark Twain described it as “older than history, more than tradition, older even than legend.” Along the banks of the Ganges, the ghats (stone steps) are the main focus of religious activity. The pilgrims have a ritual bath in water and perform puja to the sunset, a tradition that has lasted for many centuries. It is believed that bathing in holy water, remove the sins and that dying here leads to the rebirth. Many Hindus when they are old and are sick come to Varanasi to die the last days surviving on alms given by the faithful. Funerals happen at the banks of the Ganges, their bodies burned and thrown into the water. There are several very special ghats as Ghat Dasashvamedh, the Bamasangam, the Panchganga and Manikarnika. For believers, Varanasi was founded by Shiva. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple on the banks of holy river, was built in 1780. This temple is a pilgrimage site for millions of Hindus every year. Near Varanasi there is another very important place, the city of Sarnath, a place of great significance for Buddhists. Just 12 km (7 mi) from Varanasi, Sarnath is the place where Buddha preached the first sermon and revealed the path to achieving inner peace. Hotels in Varanasi
What to visit in Varanasi: Ghat Dasashvamedh; Ghat Bamasangam; Ghat Panchganga; Ghat Manikarnika; Kashi Vishwanath Temple; Ramnagar Fort; Ghat Bamasangan; Ghat Manikarnika; Dhamek Stupa;
Restaurants in Varanasi
- Shri Annapurna Restaurant Banquet
- Canton Royale Restaurant
- Dosa Cafe
- The Keshari Restaurant
- Spicy Bites Restaurant
- Bona Restaurant
- Kerala Cafe
Transports in Varanasi
Varanasi Airport (VNS): There are daily flights to/from Delhi and Mumbai.
By train and bus: There are trains and buses to/from several Indian cities.
Maps of Varanasi
Map of Varanasi
Where is Varanasi on Map of India