Know The City
Varanasi, as the renowned English authorMark Twain has said, is older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend and looks twice as old as all of them put together. One of the most ancient living cities in the world, Varanasi or Benaras is impregnated with traditions, myths and legends. The word Varanasi is a combination of two words Varuna and Assi, the two rivers, that according to Hindu mythology, the two rivers in question came into being from the body of the primordial Person at the dawn of time. And the place that lies between these rivers came to be known as Varanasi. Also known as Kashi, Varanasi has been an ancient centre of education, culture and civilisation. Being in Varanasi is an experience in itself, an experience of self discovery and an opportunity for the oneness of one's body and soul. The rich tapestry of music, arts and crafts, that Varanasi sets forth is far famed and devotees and vacationers alike pour into the city from across the globe.


Go There For
The ancient pilgrimage centre of Varanasi ropes in hundreds of thousands of tourists from far and near. Held in high regard by the Hindu community all over the world, the city houses a number of attractions to offer to its tourists and of course devotees. Within the premises of the Benaras Hindu University lies the far-renowned Kashi Vishwanath Temple. An interesting fact about the temple is that, unlike the other temples of the city, this temples invites all irrespective of caste and creed. The chain of ghats along the western bank of the divine Ganges perhaps captures the true essence of the holy city. From dawn to dusk, the ghats are a panorama of devotees praying, taking their holy dip, performing ablutions and other rituals. A dawn boat ride along the divine waters of the Ganges would let you see and experience all at one go. The Alamgir Mosque, built by the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, is another worth visiting site here. At a distance of 2 km south of the old city is positioned the 18th century Durga Temple. One of most popular temples is the Bharat Mata Temple, inaugurated by Mahatama Gandhi, the father of the nation. Erected in the year 1917, the Benaras Hindu University is the one of the oldest education centres in India. The Tulsi Manas Temple and the Archaeological Museum are the other famed tourist attractions in the city.

People & Culture
Varanasi is home to one of the oldest civilisations in the world. From art and crafts to tradition and culture, the city boasts it all. Over the years, the city has Varanasi has given birth to myriad of scholars, sages, artists, poets, writers and craftsmen. The areas lying close to the river banks are a little crowded. The far lying areas are clean and quiet. The narrown lanes of the city are lined with a number of stalls and shops. Taking a rickshaw ride through the lanes of the city is a nice option to see and experience the lifestyle and the daily routines of the people. While here, you can also buy Banarasi specialities like sarees, handicrafts, ornament, metal works and wood carvings.


Feasting & Celebration
Rich in culture and traditions, the city of Varanasi presents a tapestry of fairs and festivals. One of the most famous is the Chittirai Festival that commemorates the marriage of Meenkashi and Sundareshwara (Shiva). The festival is held during April/ May and continues for 12 days. The Avanimoola Festival celebrates the coronation of Lord Sundareshwara. Teppam Festival and the Panguni Festival are the other famous festivals in Varanasi. Each of the festivals sets forth the same level of spirit and enthusiasm. Both tourists and pilgrims alike flock to the city to partake in the religious and cultural celebrations.