Among the seven holy cities of Hinduism: Ayodhya, Mathura, Dwarka, Haridwar, Varanasi, Kanchipuram and Ujjain; Varanasi is considered to be known as the oldest living city in the world. Situated on the river banks of Ganges in Uttar Pradesh, the city is holy and religious hub for Hindus, Buddhist and Jains.

Varanasi is famous for its number of Ghats. It is believed that one who gets cremation on these Ghats, get liberated from the cycle of rebirth. He gets moksha from here. That’s why people wished to spend their last time of life in Varanasi. They also believe that sacred Ganga will wash their sins if they bath in it. The Manikarnika, Dashashwamedh and Harishchandra Ghats are some of the Ghats where people follow rituals after death.

The Vishwanath or Kashi Vishwanath temple is the major attraction of the city. As it is among the 12 Jyotirlinga dedicated to lord Shiva, Varanasi is also known as lord Shiva’s abode.

Other famous temples in the city are Sankat Mochan Mandir dedicated to Lord Hanuman, Durga mandir and Kaal Bhairav Mandir.  Apart from Hinduism, Varanasi is a pilgrimage for Jain community also because their 23^rd Trithankar, Lord Parshvanath was born on this holy place.

Silk weaving industry is a unique tourist attraction point for Varanasi. Commonly known as Banarasi silk, the fabric is then crafted into saree and suit with gold and zari border work. It’s in great demand all over the world.

Banaras Hindu University, the one of the largest residential university in Asia is also situated here which attracts students across the country for education.

One, who plans to visit Varanasi, should also visit Sarnath, the place where Gautama Buddha gave his first teaching after attaining enlightenment. It is just few kilometers away from the Banaras.