The holy city of India, Varanasi is also known by the name of Kashi and Benaras. Situated on the west bank of the River Ganga, Varanasi is a historic city that has several mysteries concealed deep within. Varanasi is among the most popular pilgrimage points for the Hindus. This popular religious hub has similar looking winding roads, and crowded Ghats with the fragrance of incense and the smell of burnt firewood dissolving in the air. This sacred city is also the reflection of different architecture contributed by various rulers in the past - from the Kings of Bengal to the Maharajas of Rajasthan.
History As Mark Twain said, “Benares is older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend, and looks twice as old as all of them put together.” Varanasi is one of the oldest cities in the world, and has seen many generations of human life. According to Hindu mythology, the city was founded by Lord Shiva, and hence is known as the “City of Shiva”. The city has seen the progress of human civilization since ancient times, and this fact helps the city to obtain the status of being the cultural capital of India.
Tourist Attractions There are temples here at close distance, and each of these religious spot has a fascinating story to it. Jyotirlinga Visvanatha Temple or Golden Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Jnana Vapi well (meaning 'Well of Wisdom) is believed to have been dug by Lord Shiva himself. It is believed that the majestic Alamgir mosque has replaced one of the most ancient shrines known as the temple of Bindu Madhava.
The Ganga Ghats (river front) are the most popular pilgrimage spot of Varanasi. Other popular pilgrimage route in Varanasi is Nagara Pradakshina, which covers seventy-two shrines along the way. Since time immemorial Varanasi is a great center of learning. The holy city has been a symbol of spiritualism, philosophy and mysticism for thousands of years and has produced great saints and personalities like Guatama Buddha, Mahavira, Kabir, Tulsi Das, Shankaracharaya, Ramanuja and Patanjali.
Fairs and Festivals Buddha Purnima, the festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Buddha is among the biggest festivals celebrated here in Varanasi. A large fair is held at Sarnath and the relic of the Buddha is taken out for public display in a procession on this day.
The unique Ramleela of Ramnager is another famous festival of Varanasi. Thousands of devotees gather to see the enactments during months of September to October.
Dhrupad Mela is another renowned festival of Varanasi. A five days music festival of Dhrupad is performed by renowned artistes at Tulsi Ghat. It is very popular among foreign tourists.
Other festivals celebrated in Varanasi are Diwali, Ganga Mahotsav, Dev Diwali, Maha Shivaratri, Dhanteras, Holi etc.
People, Art and Culture Music, drama and entertainment are all synonymous with Varanasi. The city has long been famous for its music, both vocal and instrumental and has its own dance traditions. Varanasi has a very rich stock of folk music and drama (esp. Ramlila), rich tradition of akharas, games and sports.
Food Varanasi is famous for its kachoris, chaat, lassi and, of course, paan.
South Asia is home to solid one-third of the world’s population. The region is home to the highest and the second highest mountain peaks of the world Everest and K2. Housing marvels such as the Taj Mahal, Ajanta, Sigiriya, Timpu, and Taxila, the heritage and cultures of the region date back thousands of years.
Whether you are interested in a Sight Seeing Tour, Season Special Tour or you are on a look out for a Pilgrimage Tour, these pocket friendly tour packages will make your journey to this majestic land worth remembering.
GET FREE TOUR QUOTES
1. Choose your destination
2. Customize your tour
3. Confirm your booking
4. Live an unforgettable experience!
