Varanasi- Uttar Pradesh: The Oldest City in the World

Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh located in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, was once referred to as “the world’s oldest city” by Mark Twain, the famous personality. Varanasi is the religious centre of the world for Hindus and is almost universally regarded as Hinduism’s holiest spot. Located on the banks of the holy Ganges and between two of the Ganges’ tributaries Varuna (in the north) and Asi (in the south). It is from these two tributaries that Varanasi derives its name from.

Varanasi is commonly known as ‘Benaras’. According to historians, Varanasi has been continually habituated since the 10th century BC. Varanasi, the famous pilgrimage town has many Hindu scriptures such as Vamana Purana and many prominent Buddhist texts. Varanasi has also been mentioned in the Hindu epic Mahabharata. Varanasi is perhaps most known across the world for its many Ghats, from where devotees and visitors alike take dips in the holy Ganges. Varanasi is also sometimes referred to as the temple capital of the world.

DESTINATIONS near Varanasi- TOURIST ATTRACTIONS

The most noticeable feature of Varanasi is the many Ghats that line up the banks of the river Ganges. Varanasi is also home to many famous historical temples that are deemed to be among the holiest sites of Hinduism.

  • The most famous temple is Kashi Vishwanath temple, an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The current structure of the temple was built by Rani Ahilyabai of Indore in the 18th century, as the original structure was destroyed by the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. The gold plating seen atop the dome of the temple was done by Maharaja Ranjit Singh of Punjab in the 19th century. Note that foreigner’s entry is restricted in the temple.
  • Another equally famous and historical temple in Varanasi is the Durga temple, dedicated to Goddess Durga, the consort of Lord Shiva.
  • Bharat Mata temple is dedicated to Mother India. Inaugurated by the great Indian Mahatma Gandhi in 1936, the Bharat Mata temple houses a statue that is a 3D replica of undivided India.
  • Another very popular and prolific temple in Varanasi is the Tulsi Manas temple, which is relatively much modern and was constructed in the year 1964. The region around Varanasi abounds with famous Buddhist temples. Prominent among these are Sarnath and Damekh Stupa.
  • The historical temples of Chunar and Jaunpur are also very popular.

Varanasi Pilgrim- TRAVEL TIPS

  • Languages: Hindi and English are widely spoken.
  • Accommodation: Due to Varanasi’s spiritual prominence, there are many ashrams and spas around this ancient temple city and famous pilgrimage centre.
  • Cuisine: Cuisine catering to all tastes and stomachs is readily available.
  • Shop: Shop for authentic Banaras sarees.

Varanasi is a must-stop for any temple tourism initiative or temple tour in India. Varanasi tours are offered by all leading travel operators of India.

BEST TIME to visit Varanasi

Varanasi can be visited any time of the year. However, winters here can be quite cold. Find Travel Agents suiting your travel on Tripraja.com. Find Travel Agents suiting your travel on Tripraja.com

BEST WAY to reach Varanasi

  • By Air: The Varanasi airport is located at Babatpur, a mere 22 kms away from the city centre.
  • By Rail: Varanasi is a major railway station and almost all expr`ess trains have a halt here.
  • By Road: Varanasi is well connected to all the important cities in the region. Buses are in plenty from all towns/cities in the region. Local transport in Varanasi comprises taxis, buses and rickshaws.

ACCOMMODATION

Hotels and rooms are available to suit all budgets. One can obtain excellent discounts on accommodation via temple pilgrimage tours and temple tours.