One of the oldest, continuously inhabited cities of the world, Varanasi is also one of the most sacred cities for Hindus in India to visit at least once in their lifetime. Situated on the banks of the river Ganges, it is one of the holiest places in the country. According to Hindu mythology, once one takes a dip in the waters of the Ganges, one is cleansed of the sins of a lifetime. Pilgrims come here from all over the country, and even the world, to not only wash away sins and but also to cremate their loved ones and scatter the ashes in the river. It is said that those who are cremated in this Holy City will achieve salvation. Varanasi also has, for centuries, been famous for its muslin and silk fabric.
MAIN HIGHLIGHTS:
Early morning boat ride: – Take a boat ride on the Holy Ganges early in the morning – watch pilgrims take a holy dip and offer their morning prayers to the rising sun, sing songs, and perform rituals on the ghats.
Evening Aarti by the Ganges – An evening visit to the banks of the Holy River is a divine experience because the Agni Pooja (prayers with brass oil lamps) is performed then. This beautiful spiritual ritual is performed in the presence of a huge crowd using lit brass lamps, to the accompaniment of holy chants.
Sarnath – Sarnath is one of the most important spiritual pilgrimages for Buddhists from all over the world. After His enlightenment in Bodhgaya, Lord Buddha sought his five former companions, taught them the first Dhamma, till they too achieved enlightenment. This event is referred to as “the turning of the wheel of the Dharma” and also marks the founding of the Sangha, or the community of monks.
Temple visit – The Bharat Mata Temple is dedicated to Mother India and has an unusual marble relief map of the Indian Sub-Continent inside. The New Vishwanath Temple, unlike other temples, is open to all religions.
Benaras Hindu University – Established in 1916, the BHU is regarded as a centre of learning and quality education in India. The campus has a museum with a collection of miniature paintings, 12th century palm leaf manuscripts, sculptures, and local history displays.