Glimpse of Varanasi - Ancient City of India

Varanasi, also known as the Banaras and Kashi, is considered the holiest among the 7 sacred places of India, as per the beliefs of Hinduism and Jainism. The city is located on the banks of the Ganga River. It is among the oldest and continuously populated cities of the world.

Being the oldest existing settlement in India, it has held particular set of values and traditions for the longest time and continues to preserve them even today. That is why it is regarded as the torch bearer of the Indian culture.

In Hindu religion, dying and being cremated in the Varanasi is considered as a key to ‘Moksha’ (ultimate liberation). That is, the soul would not need to take a re-birth ever again; it will be united with the Universal supreme power.

Varanasi is famous and respected for its contribution to the fields of music, education, arts and crafts like silk sarees, toys, ornaments, wood and metal works. Many outstanding personalities in the field of music, literature and philosophy find their roots in this ancient place. The silk saree, which is popularly known as ‘Benarasi Saree’ is something without which no Indian marriage is complete. It is an essential piece of clothing for every bride.

This holy place is the city of fairs and festivals. Each month of the year is filled with the color of one or the other celebration. Thus, scheduling a trip won’t be a hard task as, all year round, there are numerous festivals that take place over here.

The banks of the Ganga are marked by miles and miles of ghats, which are used by the people to take a bath, perform religious ceremonies or to cremate the dead.

The serpentine roads of the city can be best explored through the rickshaws. A good way to cross the mesmerizing ghats is through a boat ride. Sailing on the pious river of Ganga, especially during sunrise and sunset, is a wonderful experience. The chanting of the mantras, the fragrance of incense sticks, the hustle and bustle of people taking a bath and performing rituals – the whole environment is capable of filling the heart and mind of a person with bliss and tranquility.

Kashi Naresh (King of Varanasi) is looked up as the incarnation of God Shiva. The revered king is present at all the religious festivals, which take place in the city. The palace of the king is known as Ramnagar Fort.

Apart from the fort, Ramnagar is famous for its unique way of organizing the Ramlila. It is enacted throughout the city of Ramnagar. Different areas of the city are used to represent different locations of the epic. Moreover, the whole performance is made without the use of any technological equipment, like electric light, mikes and loudspeakers.

One can come to Varanasi, comfortably, through any of the three modes of transport, namely, road, train or air.

Best time to Visit - Summer is not the best time to visit as the temperature can range from 32 degrees Celsius to 46 degrees Celsius. Monsoon ushers in an average rainfall along with humidity. Winter season, which stays from October to March, presents the best time to seek the holiness of the place.

Among the various pilgrimage destinations in India, Varanasi is the most revered. An Indian pilgrimage tour cannot be complete without it. This ‘holy city of India’ preserves the heart of Hinduism under its numerous myths, legends and mysticism.

The author is a travel fanatic, she loves to share her travel experience through her articles.