Varanasi
Varanasi also known by names such as Benaras and Kashi is situated on the banks of the river Ganges (Ganga) in the state of Uttar Pradesh. The Hindu God Shiva supposedly once lived here and Hindus believe that bathing in the river Ganga will remit sins and that dying in the holy city of Kashi circumvents rebirth. It is the duty of all Hindus to visit Varanasi, at least once in their lifetime. The city is often also referred to as city of temples and learning. Almost every road crossing has a nearby temple; small and large, old and new. The city has been a cultural and religious center in northern India for thousands of years. Varanasi has its own style of classical Hindustani music, and has produced prominent philosophers, poets, writers and musicians in Indian history. Varanasi may not have remarkable monuments for tourists as such but instead, the experience is in watching the spectacle of life and death on the river and meandering through the alleys of the old city. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and probably the oldest of India.
Trips that visit Varanasi
- North India and Nepal TourDay 9: Drive to Varanasi 14 days
- India Nepal & Bhutan OdysseyDay 5: Fly to Varanasi 17 days
Near Varanasi
More to see around Uttar Pradesh.
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Sight
Aarti at Varanasi
This is particularly interesting to see in Varanasi where elaborate Ganga Aarti at Dasaswamedh ghat is held every evening, just after sunset.
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Sight
Agra Fort
The great Mughal Emperor Akbar commissioned the construction of the Agra Fort in 1565, A.D. although additions were made till the time of his grandson Shah Jehan.
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Sight
Allahabad
Allahabad is an inscrutable place and the ideal way to untie its ambiguity is by exploring it on a walking trip among its narrow alleys and bustling streets.
