The holy city of Varanasi, known as the city of temples and learning , is a place of great historical and cultural importance. This religious capital of India is situated on the banks of the holy river Ganges and is presided over by Lord Shiva. It is the heart of India and an epitome of the synthesis of cultures, religions and races
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Varanasi is one of the oldest cities in the world and the most important pilgrimage site in India. With its array of shrines, temples and palaces rising in several tiers from the water's edge, it is one of the most picturesque cities in the east. The main attraction here are the Ghats (wide stairways, descending from the buildings down to the water's edge), each with its own significance.
History :- The land of Varanasi (Kashi) has been the ultimate pilgrimage spot for Hindus for ages. Often referred to as Benares, Varanasi is the oldest living city in the world. These few lines by Mark Twain say it all: "Benaras is older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend and looks twice as old as all of them put together".
Attractions :- Being the oldest city of the world and an important Hindu pilgrimage center, Varanasi attracts a large number of people from all over the world. For centuries, Varanasi is famous for spiritualism, mysticism, Indian philosophy and Hinduism.
The Ghats There are over 100 bathing and burning ghats (literally 'steps') at Varanasi but the most sacred is the Manikarnika Ghat, which is the most auspicious place that a Hindu can be cremated.
Temples: Temples are one of the biggest tourist attractions in Varanasi. Most of the temples are located in the old city along the lanes and the lanes and by lanes.
Sarnath: Close to Varanasi, lies Sarnath where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. Ashoka the great later erected a stupa here.
Climate : During summers, weather can be as hot as 45° C and humid too as Varanasi lies at the Tropic of cancer. On the other hand, winters are pleasant and temperature dips down to about 7°C. In Varanasi, the climatic conditions are most favorable for the tourists between October to April
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How to Reach :
By Air
Varanasi is well connected and accessible to major Indian cities and tourist spots
By Rail
Since Varanasi lies in the heartland of the North Indian plains, it is well connected to Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai and other parts of India.
By Road
Situated in the flat Ganga plains, Varanasi has a good network of roads. frequent public and private buses and road transport to all the major towns of Uttar Pradesh and nearby areas.