varanasi

Varanasi, also known as Banaras or Kashi, is one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities and a major cultural, spiritual, and historical hub in Uttar Pradesh, India. The city sits on the banks of the sacred River Ganges and holds deep significance in Hindu belief systems, with millions of pilgrims visiting every year to perform rituals, attend evening Ganga aarti, and seek spiritual liberation. Varanasi is home to numerous ancient temples, including the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. The city’s ghats, narrow lanes, and traditional markets reflect a living tapestry of rituals, art, music, and philosophy that has shaped Indian culture for millennia. Besides its religious prominence, Varanasi played a crucial role as a center of learning and crafts, known especially for its Banarasi silk, fine brocades, and classical music traditions. The nearby site of Sarnath marks where Buddha delivered his first sermon after enlightenment, adding a powerful dimension to the city’s historical and cultural appeal.