Varanasi, aka Benaras or Kashi, is not only the holiest city but also one of the oldest civilizations of the world. According to Mark Twain,” Benares is older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend, and looks twice as old as all of them put together.”
A city with a rich history, Varanasi offers an amalgamation of cultures that have an imprint of Aryans, Mughals, Marathas, and modern traditions. The city is often visited by pilgrims seeking divine benedictions at the 88 ghats along the river Ganges.
The birthplace of Kabir and Ravidas, the origin of Ramcharitmanas by Tulsidas, Guru Nanak’s visit, the establishment of Shaivism by Adi Shankara, and many other incidents make Benaras a must-visit tourist destination.
Hindi and English are commonly used here.
When to Travel?
Do not plan to pay a visit during the summer and monsoon season. October to March is deemed the best time to visit Varanasi.