The city of Varanasi along the western bank of the Ganges in Uttar Pradesh is an incredibly important pilgrimage centre for Hindus. This city which even finds mention in the great epics of Mahabharata and Ramayana was a prosperous trade center in 500 BC. According to Mark Twain, ”Benaras is older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend and looks twice as old as all of them put together.” Varanasi stands as a symbol of the Hindu renaissance and preserves the traditions of Hindu philosophy. Summers are quite harsh in Varanasi with temperatures soaring up to 45°C. The monsoons set in by late June or early July, bringing torrential rains and high humidity. Winters are quite pleasant with temperatures around 20°C.

Varanasi Facts:

• Area 83.05 sq km
• Population 2.5 million
• Altitude 80.71 m
• Languages Bhojpuri ; Hindi & English
• STD Code 0542
• Best time to visit October-March

Tourist Attractions in Varanasi

Ancient temples are the major source of attraction in this city. The banks of the Ganges are considered to be extremely sacred by the Hindus and the ghats are the centre of most religious activities that occur in the city. Other interesting places to visit around this city are Alamgir Mosque, Durga Temple, Bharat Mata temple, Tulsi Manas Temple, Vishwanat Temple, Banaras Hindu University and the Archaeological Museum.

Tourist Attractions around Varanasi

EExcursions around Varanasi give one an insight into the mystic religion of Hinduism as well as Buddhism. A visit to Sarnath, Bodhgaya and Kushinagar throws light on Buddha from his enlightenment to his passing away. Allahabad and Ramnagar Fort are other places around Varanasi worth a visit.




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