Varanasi
 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 16th 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.
Accommodation at Varanasi:
Write to
us for Varanasi Hotels
Weather and Best Time to Visit:
Summers are hot and humid in Varanasi. Day temperatures can rise up to 45° C. Winter is comfortable with average temperatures of around 25° C, though the nights tend to be much cooler at around 7°C. The monsoons arrive at Varanasi in the months of June/July and it rains through till end September, early October.
Prime
Attractions at Varanasi
-
Asi Ghat
-
Dashashwamedha Ghat
-
Adi Keshava Ghat
-
Panchganga Ghat
-
Manikarnika Ghat
-
Tulsi Ghat
-
Harishchandra Ghat
-
Kedar Ghat
-
Man Mandir Ghat
Access to Varanasi
Air:
Varanasi airport is 22 Kms from the city and is well connected with all
the major cities in India.
Road: Varanasi is well connected by road to major cities in UP
and Bihar and is located on three National Highways - NH2 from Calcutta
to Delhi, NH7 to Kanyakumari and NH29 to Gorakhpur.
Rail:
Varanasi's main railway station is the Cantt. railway station connecting
it with all major places in India.
|
