Explore Varanasi
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Varanasi, also known as Benaras and Kashi is situated in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh . It is considered a holy city in Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism. It lies on the banks of river Ganges and is located 300 km south east of capital Lucknow. It is known as the most ancient city of India and is also referred to as the city of temples. The city is regarded as the cultural and religious capital of India for thousands of years. Varanasi is also known for its Lord Buddha connection, as he gave his first sermon at Sarnath, which is located near Varanasi. Varanasi also known as "the city of lights" and "the city of learning" is one of the oldest cities in the world. Ancient Hindu scriptures also mention the city and that is the reason it's considered a sacred city and an important pilgrimage destination for Hindus. Jericho in Palestine also shares the title of being the oldest existing city in the world. Varanasi was a trade centre two thousand years ago and various commodities were produced and sold here such as muslin and silk fabrics, ivory works, sculptures and perfumes. According to Chinese traveller Xuanzang, the city was spread over around five km along the bank of the river Ganges.

Varanasi takes no prisoners. But if you're ready for it, this may just turn out to be your favourite stop of all. Also known at various times in history as Kashi (City of Light) and Benares, this is one of the world's oldest continually inhabited cities and is regarded as one of Hinduism's seven holy cities. Pilgrims come to the ghats lining the River Ganges here to wash away a lifetime of sins in the sacred waters or to cremate their loved ones. It's a particularly auspicious place to die, since expiring here offers moksha (liberation from the cycle of birth and death), making Varanasi the beating heart of the Hindu universe. Most visitors agree it's a magical place, but it's not for the faint-hearted. Here the most intimate rituals of life and death take place in public, and the sights, sounds and smells in and around the ghats – not to mention the almost constant attention from touts – can be overwhelming. Persevere. Varanasi is unique, and a walk along the ghats or a boat ride on the river will live long in the memory.