Perhaps the oldest surviving city in India, Varanasi or Benares is a living illustration of India's vibrant cultural color.
Varanasi mesmerizes with its 'timeless magic' that takes you to a world that is entirely different from regular urban cities. Religious Hindus believe Varanasi is the sacred place where Lord Shiv began his legendary 'tandav dance'.
A sacred city that has been on the banks of River Ganges for centuries now, Varanasi has a mesmerizing effect with its rustic Ghats, ancient shrines and open-air religious ritual fiestas.
Also known as Kashi, Varanasi is the site of the annual Ganga Mahotsav that celebrates the cultural splendor of this ancient city. Varanasi gets its name from two rivers 'Varun' and 'Asi' that flow through this sacred land.
History
Varanasi may actually be the oldest city on Earth with a history that seems to have roots in the Iron Age.
In fact the great author Mark Twain remarked "Benares has a history older than tradition."
According to common Hindu legend, Varanasi is "the first piece of land created by Lord Shiva and his consort Parvati."
Home to great institutions such as the Benares Hindu University and Theosophical Society, Varanasi is a land where Vaishnavism and Shaivism have co-existed for ages.
Tourist Attractions
There are several tourist attractions in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. Travel to as many historic sites as you possibly can and find out more about the interesting heritage of this old Indian city.
Tour Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Alamgir Mosque, Bharat Mata Temple, Durga Temple, Tulsi Manas Mandir and the Archaeological Museum.
Enjoy excursions to Sarnath, a destination associated with Buddhism.
Tour Itineraries for Varanasi : |