Situated on the banks of the holy river Ganga, Varanasi is the ultimate pilgrimage destination for Hindus.

Varanasi, known as the cultural capital of India, offers a unique amalgamation of religion, literature, music, architecture, arts & crafts and Vedic philosophy. Ancient Ghats, Temples and Universities are the points of interesthere. The city experiences hot summers and pleasant winters, and the best time to visit is between October– April, when Dusshera and Diwali are round the corner.

History of Varanasi

Varanasi, the center of civilization for over 3000 years, believed to have its origins in the tresses of Lord Shiva. The city lies in confluence with two rivers Varuna and Assi, and therefore the name-Varanasi.  The city has been the center of philosophy, culture, devotion, arts, crafts and music. However, the religious fervor supersedes the rest.

The city of Ganges, believed to be the platform of modern medical sciences like Plastic surgery, Cataract and Calculus operations. Spiritualism, mysticism, Sanskrit, yoga and Hindi language, deeply honored here.

The city is home to many renowned musicians, poets, authors and politicians. World-famous Sitar player, Pt. Ravi Shankar, ever-famous novelist Prem Chand and Tulsi Das, and the famous Shehnai player Ustad Bismillah Khan are some names that emerge from the soil of Kashi.

Varanasi globally acclaimed for its finest silks, gold and silver brocades.

Tourism in Varanasi

Varanasi being a spiritual destination in India boasts of Buddhist Stupas, Hindu and Jain temples. It is the home to Indian National emblem, the Ashoka pillar, archived from the archaeological site of Sarnath.

It is a melting pot of different religions and races. The Alamgir Mosque blends the Persian and Indian architecture and offers an exquisite example of two different flavors. The Ghats (riverbanks) is the epicenter of religious activities and rituals.

Other points of interest include the Benaras Hindu University (BHU), Archaeological Museum, Sarnath, Bharat Kala Bhavan and the Buddhist Stupas and temples at Sarnath.

The Ganga Ghats are prominent places to receive salvation. According to the Hindu mythology, sins can be absolved here by taking dips in the waters of Ganga, also one can liberate the soul from the vicious cycle of life and death, if the funeral is conducted here. There are100 Ghats along the river, the famous ones include Dasaswamedh Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, Harischandra Ghat, Kabir Ghat and Assi Ghat.

Banarasi silk sarees form an indispensable part of an Indian bride's trousseau. So do not forget to splurge on those rich and unique traditional handspun silk saris. You may shop for exquisite pieces of brassware, wooden and clay toys, copperware and antique gold jewellery designs.

Betel leaves is an important part of their tradition, and they welcome their guests by offering them sugarcoated betel leaves. If your Varanasi vacation is during summers enjoy the sweet 'n' sour Langda Aam (mangoes). The shopping hotspots are Chowk, Gyan Vapi, Vishwanath Gali, Thatheri Bazar, Lahurabir, Dashswamedh Gali and Golghar.

Fairs and festivals are symbolic of celebration of life at its best, and in Varanasi, the festive atmosphere never seems to end. Let us take you to Varanasi Tour!