Varanasi is a city in India located on the banks of the Ganges River in the state of Uttar Pradesh. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and is considered one of the holiest cities in Hinduism and Jainism. Varanasi is known for its ghats, which are steps leading down to the river, and for its many temples. It is also a major center of learning and culture, as well as a major pilgrimage site for Hindus. Varanasi is also known for its vibrant street life, which includes artisans, musicians, and vendors, who sell items ranging from spices to religious artifacts.
Varanasi is one of the oldest cities in the world, with evidence of habitation dating back to the 11th century BC. It is considered one of the seven holiest cities in Hinduism and Jainism. It was known as Kashi in ancient times, when it was the capital of the Kingdom of Kashi. It is located on the banks of the Ganges River in the modern-day state of Uttar Pradesh.
The city has played a major role in Indian history, serving as a major cultural, religious, and educational center. It has been an important part of the Hindu pilgrimage circuit, with many temples and ghats.
The oldest known reference to Varanasi is in the Hindu epic Mahabharata, which dates back to the 5th century BC. The city was also mentioned in the Buddhist scriptures. During the reign of the Mauryan Empire in the 3rd century BC, Varanasi was an important center of Buddhist learning.
In the 4th century AD, Varanasi was a major center of Hinduism, with numerous temples and an important center of learning. During the Mughal period (1526-1707), the city became a major center of Islamic learning.
1. KashiVishwanath Temple: One of the most revered Hindu temples in India, KashiVishwanath is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located on the banks of the holy Ganges River, the temple is believed to be the site of the original temple built by the Pandavas in Mahabharata.
2. ManikarnikaGhat: Located on the banks of the Ganges River, ManikarnikaGhat is a popular destination for Hindu devotees and tourists alike. The holy site is believed to be the burning site of Sati, the consort of Lord Shiva.
3. DasaswamedhGhat: Located near the KashiVishwanath Temple, DasaswamedhGhat is one of the most important ghats in Varanasi. Every evening, a spectacular Ganga Aarti ceremony is held at the ghat.
4. Bharat Mata Temple: Located near the Banaras Hindu University, the Bharat Mata Temple is dedicated to Mother India. The temple houses a marble relief map of India and is a popular tourist attraction.
5. Ramnagar Fort: Located on the eastern banks of the Ganges, Ramn agar Fort is a Mughal-era fort built in the 18th century. The fort houses a museum which is home to a collection of antique items, including a vintage car collection.
6. Sarnath: Located about 10 km away from Varanasi, Sarnath is an important Buddhist pilgrimage destination. The site is believed to be where Gautama Buddha gave his first sermon.
7. AssiGhat: AssiGhat is the southernmost ghat in Varanasi and a popular destination for pilgrims and tourists. The ghat is believed to be the site of the confluence of the Ganges and Assi rivers.
8. Alamgir Mosque: Located near the AssiGhat, Alamgir Mosque is one of the most important Islamic monuments in Varanasi. The mosque was built by Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb in the 17th century.
Varanasi can be reached by air, rail, and road. The LalBahadurShastri International Airport is located in Varanasi, which is connected to many major cities in India and abroad. Varanasi Junction is a major railway station and is connected to many major cities of India. The city is also well connected by road and several state-run and private buses run between Varanasi and other cities.
By Flight: Varanasi Airport, also known as LalBahadurShastri Airport, is the nearest airport to Varanasi. It is located at a distance of 18 km from the city center. This airport is well connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Lucknow. Taxis and buses are available from the airport to reach the city center.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Varanasi is Varanasi Junction, located at a distance of 5 km from the city center. Varanasi Junction is connected to most major cities in the country and serves both express and passenger trains. The station is one of the busiest railway stations in the country and is well connected to major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad and many more.
By Roadways: Varanasi is well connected to major cities of India by road. The city is located on the National Highway 19, which is a major route connecting Varanasi to Delhi, Agra and other cities. Varanasi is also connected to major cities of the states of Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Bihar. Buses, taxis and cabs are available from major cities to Varanasi.
The best time to visit Varanasi is during the winter months of October to March. The weather is pleasant and cool during this period, making it ideal for sightseeing. The summer months of April to June are hot and humid, with temperatures soaring up to 45 degrees Celsius. Monsoon season (July to September) is also not recommended to visit Varanasi as the city gets flooded.
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