Varanasi

For ages, the pious land of Kashi has been a major pilgrimage centre for Hindus. One of the oldest inhabited cities in the world, Varanasi (Banaras) has been a mute witness to innumerable historic events and upheavals. Mythological records reveal that it is at this place where River Ganges, originated from the tresses of Lord Shiva, expanded into the mighty river that today, traverses the Indian subcontinent. Considering the importance of Ganges, or Ganga in local parlance, among Hindus, it is believed that one who dies on the sacred land of Varanasi is bound to attain salvation and freedom for reincarnation.

Besides the Hindu religious sects - Vaishnavism and Shaivism, which have co-existed in Varanasi harmoniously, the city is also a prominent hub for Jainism as it is believed to be the birthplace of the 23rd Tirthankar Parsvanath. Not just religion, but knowledge, culture, philosophy and Indian arts and crafts have all flourished in Varanasi over the centuries. Serving as the cultural and spiritual capital of the country, Varanasi is definitely a place worth exploring.

  1. Dashashwamedha Ghat

    One of the oldest ghats in Varanasi, the Dashashwamedha Ghat is said to be the place where ten horses were sacrificed by Lord Brahma. With a riverfront in the backdrop, this ghat looks beautiful during the evening Aarti.

  2. Manikarnika Ghat

    Manikarnika Ghat is believed to be the centre of the five tirthas and is most known as a cremation spot for Hindus. There is a well at this sacred ghat that is said to have been dug by Lord Vishnu.

  3. Assi Ghat

    The southernmost ghat of Varanasi, Assi Ghat marks the confluence of Ganga and Asi rivers. Pilgrims come here to bathe before paying their homage to Lord Shiva, who is enshrined in the form of a Lingam at the ghat.

  4. Kashi Vishwanath Temple

    Kashi Vishwanath Temple is a Shiva shrine in Varanasi, dedicated to one of the twelve renowned Jyotirlingas of India. It has earned the sobriquet of Golden Temple owing to the golden planting done on its 15.5-m high spire.

  5. Banaras Hindu University

    Popularly known as BHU, the Banaras Hindu University is undoubtedly one of the most prized possessions of Varanasi. Inside this historical campus is the Bharat Kala Bhavan, where a vast collection of paintings, sculptures and archaeological items are displayed.

Varanasi
Varanasi
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