Varanasi, also called Kashi or Banaras, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. In Hinduism it is one of the seven sacred cities, said to have been founded by Shiva. The name Kashi comes from the Sanskrit for “to shine”: it is the city of light.
The ghats
Life in Varanasi unfolds on the stone steps leading down to the Ganges.
- Dashashwamedh Ghat: every evening it hosts the Ganga Aarti, an offering of light to the river.
- Assi Ghat: at sunrise, Subah-e-Banaras brings together yoga, music and devotion.
- Manikarnika Ghat: the great cremation ground, one of Hinduism’s holiest places.
Temples and Sarnath
The Kashi Vishwanath temple, dedicated to Shiva, is the city’s spiritual heart. A short drive away, Sarnath is where the Buddha gave his first teaching after enlightenment.
Culture
Varanasi is linked to saints and poets such as Kabir, Tulsidas and Guru Nanak, and is a UNESCO Creative City of Music.
For travellers
- A dawn boat ride on the Ganges.
- Getting lost in the old city’s lanes.
- Best time: October to March.
Source: Incredible India – Varanasi.
Image: Saaremees, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0.
