India is a country blessed with many diverse cultures and rich traditions that define the nation's heart and soul and brings a diverse heritage to all that visit this magnificent country. Many holy destinations have made an indelible mark in the history of the nation however one such city that stands out is Varanasi. Believed to be the oldest continuously inhabited city in the world, Varanasi or Kashi or Banaras is one of the most pious pilgrim destinations in the world. Thronged by millions of tourists and pilgrims every year, Varanasi has stood the testament of time and withheld its glory and magnificence through ages. A visit to the city of Varanasi and a dip in the River Ganges rids you of all sins and stirs your soul bringing you a peace of mind.
There are various monuments and places of worship that define the skyline of Varanasi leaving you mesmerized on your trip to Varanasi. A glimpse at the historical info around Varanasi gives you a view of glory and magnificence of this holy city.
Kashi Vishwanath Temple or Golden Temple- Built in the 17th century and a heavenly abode of Lord Shiva, is said to be the oldest temples of the city. It is a foremost point of worship for all visiting this city because of one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva present here.
Alamgir Mosque- Erstwhile Beni Mahadev ka Darera was a place of worship of Shiva followers and was renamed Alamgir Mosque during the Mughal invasion of Varanasi.
Ramnagar Fort- The place of residence of the kings of Ramnagar and Varanasi, this fort is now a historical museum.
Ghats of Varanasi- Dasaswamedh Ghat, Assi Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, Man Mandir Ghat, Chaumsathi Ghat, Hanuman Ghat or Rameswaram Ghat, etc. enlighten your soul and bring you a peace of mind with the continuous chanting of Shloks and prayers.
Banaras Hindu University- The largest university of Asia holds great significance in the history of Varanasi.
Bharat Mata Temple, New Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Durga Mandir, Sankat Mochan Temple, Gyankup Well, Tulsi Mana Temple, Tibetan Temple, Jantar Mantar, etc. are famous sites of Varanasi.
Jain Temples- Varanasi is also known as the birthplace of Lord Parshvanath, the 23rd Jain Tirthankar and is said to have his humble beginnings on the soil of this holy city.
While exploring the history of the place one cannot forget the to visit the places near Varanasi or Banaras like Chandraprabha Wildlife sanctuary, Ashoka Pillar, Stupas and excavation sites of Sarnath- the place where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon, Vindhyachal, Chunar Fort, etc.
The splendour of the city of Varanasi and its rich historical lineage defines the vista of this ancient city of Gods and Goddesses. The land where Gods have roamed at the beginning of mankind leaves an indelible mark in the mind of the traveller from India and abroad.
Enjoy a blissful trip to the historical city of Varanasi!