VARANASI (BENARES), UTTAR PRADESH

Perhaps the oldest inhabited city in the world. On the banks of the River Ganges, Varanasi overflows with temples, shrines and the famous ghats and shops selling exquisite Benarasi silk saris.

Reclining languidly on the western bank of the holy river Ganges, Varanasi is a city of more than 2,000 temples and shrines. A religious capital since time immemorial, it is here that millions of Hindus come to wash away their sins; where Gautam Buddha first preached 25 centuries ago; where Asia's largest residential university, The Banaras Hindu University was founded, which till date continues to be a thriving centre for art and learning. The city is a celebration of life and the time-honoured rites of passage.
Literally translated the name 'Varanasi' means 'The Land of Light'. It is said that the city has an aura of sanctity and holiness, which forms a glowing halo around it, hence, the name 'Kashi' (The Luminous).
Founded in the 16^th century, this is said to be the oldest inhabited city in the world. At the confluence of the rivers Varuna and Assi and the mainstream of The Ganga is where Varanasi was born. The Ganga, which normally follows a southeastern course changes its path here briefly and flows north for a while, through the city. This is considered very auspicious and is another reason for Varanasi being revered by devotees and pilgrims.
The long string of bathing and burning ghats, which line the riverbanks are Varanasi's greatest attraction. Pilgrims belonging to all religions and castes flock to this city to attain salvation.
Renowned for its silk saris and carpets, Varanasi draws huge crowds of people who throng the shops to buy the sensuous Banarasi saris. A maze of lanes and palm leaf umbrellas, the hustle-bustle of people, animals and rickshaws all vying for space are an unforgettable image of Varanasi.

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