Varanasi

Situated on the banks of the holy river Ganges and often referred to as Benares, Varanasi is the oldest living city in the world. The name Varanasi has its origin from the names of the two rivers Varuna and Assi. In the words of Mark Twain, American humorist, “Benares is older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend and looks twice as old as all of them put together”. It is believed that those who are graced to die on the land of Varanasi would attain salvation and freedom from the cycle of birth and re-birth. Regarded as a holy city by Hindus, Buddhists and Jains, Varanasi has been a symbol of Hindu renaissance and the birthplace of Parsvanath, the twenty-third Tirthankar. A great center of learning for ages, Varanasi is associated with promotion of spiritualism, mysticism, Sanskrit, yoga and Hindi language and honored authors. A crossing place between the physical and spiritual worlds, this overwhelming city captivates many visitors from across the world. A boat ride on the river or a walk along the ghats is one of India’s most absorbing experiences.

Eating Out!

Known for their rich hospitality, personalised services, and old world charm, Varanasi has some much sought hotels like the Taj Ganges, Radisson. Hotel Clarks Varanasi, and the Ramada Plaza JHV.

SpiceJet Recommendations!

Bharat Kala Bhavan, Banaras Hindu University, Jantar Mantar, Ramnagar Fort, Sarnath Museum, Mulagandha Kutivihar, Choukhandi.

Shopping

Shopping attractions of Varanasi include the world famous Banarasi saree and carpets, hand-knotted carpets of Mirzapur, musical instruments, and 'Langda Aam', a popular variety of mangoes. The world-famous gold and silver brocades and richly worked saris are known to have passed on from generations and has been an important part of the Indian bride wardrobe. The Varanasi-Bhadohi-Mirzapur belt in Uttar Pradesh produces maximum number of carpets in India. Every carpet that is woven here has a characteristic elegance and unparalleled style that speak volumes about the carpet weaving tradition of Varanasi and the vicinity. The 'Kamandalam' or brass water pot from Varanasi, which is often used by sages to carry ‘Ganga Jal’ for rituals is used for religious purposes and has great significance. The shopping hotspots in Varanasi are Chowk, Gyan Vapi, Vishwanath Gali, Thatheri Bazaar, Dashswamedh Gali and Golghar.

Places to Stay

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Sight-seeing