Varanasi, or Benaras, is the holiest Hindu city in the world. It is among the most important pilgrimage location in India and one of the four most antique cities of the world. Varanasi is situated on the banks of the holy Ganges River and is famous for the distinctive ghats or bathing steps that have been built over the years. Most Ganges tours include Varanasi in their itinerary. Varanasi is visited by millions of Hindu pilgrims and tourists from India and abroad every year, thus proving its importance to tourism in India. The city is mainly attractive to many foreigners who come from far-off countries to study Indian religious scriptures like the Vedas here.
The famous ghats of Varanasi are
Dasashwamedh Ghat
This is the main ghat of Varanasi. it is the scene of constant human activity all through the day. The most beautiful moment in this ghat can be seen during the evening prayers. The priests stand with ornate lamps and move in synchronized patterns to the constant chanting of mantras. A large number of people attend the evening prayers everyday. This scene hasn’t changed much over a period of thousands of years. Only, now the loudspeakers spread the chants to a larger area.
Harishchandra Ghat
This is another of the most favored cremation spots. This ghat is associated with the legend of raja Harishchandra , who was bought by the God of Death, Yam disguised as the owner of the ghat.
Harishchandra Ghat
This is another of the most favored cremation spots. This ghat is associated with the legend of raja Harishchandra , who was bought by the God of Death, Yam disguised as the owner of the ghat.
Temples
Kashi Vishwanath Temple
This is one of the twelve shrines of Lord Shiva, collectively called the Jyotirlingas. This temple is one of the best known and revered temples in India. Millions of pilgrims visit this temple every year.
Sankat Mochan Temple
Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, this temple is one of the most pious of the temples in Varanasi. It is the venue for many important religious festivals and fairs. Many marriages also take place within the temple compound.
The narrow streets of Varanasi are another of its characteristic features. The streets are lined by shops selling sweets, other food and religious items. Many of the sweet shops have become famous over the years and are mentioned in the tour itineraries.
Varanasi is also home to the famous Benaras Hindu University, one of the major centers of learning in India. Sarnath, one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage centers is located close to Varanasi.
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