Varanasi

The History of Varanasi

Varanasi also known as Benaras, is one of the most ancient living cities of the world. The earliest descriptions of Varanasi are found in the Buddhist scriptures along with great Hindu epics like the Mahabharat. and also in the epic, 'Mahabharat'. Varanasi is also known as Kashi and is believed to be the city of spiritual light. 'Baranasi' is the 'Pali' version of Varanasi and ultimately it gave rise to the name with which we know it today, 'Banaras'.

This holy place of Hindus is believed to be created by the Hindu Gods, Shiva and Parvati. According to legends it was this pious land on which they stood upon at the starting of time. This place has many mythological and legendary stories about its creation.

Varanasi Tourist Attractions

Varanasi is the epicentre of Hinduism. It can be aptly described as a city of classical traditional culture. It has always been able to attract worshippers, pilgrims as well as tourists because of the mysterious aura created around it due to all myths and legends behind it.

The biggest tourist attractions of Varanasi are undoubtedly its temples. You will find various temples dedicated to different Gods in almost every by-lane of the old city of Varanasi. The most eminent temple is the Kashi Vishwanatha temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is the dream of every foreigner to attend the daily evening aarti, which is performed with a lot of fanfare.

The sacred river Ganges is an integral part of the city. The riverbank has many concrete series of steps going down to the river. These pavilions known as ghats are major fascinations in Varanasi. Some of the famous ghats that every tourist generally visits are, Asi, Dashashwamedha Ghat, Barnasangam, Manikarnika and Panchganga. You can either take a boat ride in the river. Or if you are the more adventurous types or the pious types then take a dip in the holy waters or worship the rising sun.

Quite close to Varanasi is a place called Sarnath. This is the place where Lord Buddha gave his very first sermon after attaining enlightenment. The major tourist attraction in this place is the stupa created by Ashoka. There are many other monuments and relics of the Buddhist community.

Visiting Varanasi is like a path to self-discovery and self-enlightenment. It is truly a breath taking experience. Whether its golden sun’s brilliant rays on the banks of Ganges or the high bank with people worshipping everywhere or temples, shrines, every scene is a beauty unparallel to anything else.

Hotels In Varanasi

Varanasi is a famous tourist spots and so the hospital industry is really buzzing here. You are spoilt for choices when it comes to staying at Varanasi. Among the five star hotels are the Hotel Ramada Palaza, Hotel Taj Ganges, Hotel Clarks Varanasi, Hotel Hindustan International, etc. You can also opt for some medium budget hotels like Hotel de Paris, Diamond hotel and Hotel India.