Varanasi,
a one of the top ranked place in the list of
Travel
Agents in India, known to the devotees as Kashi, is said to have
been founded by Shiva, Lord of the Universe. One of the oldest living cities
in the world , as also one of the most important pilgrimage sites in India,
Varanasi is a major tourist attraction. Right from the ancient times, Varanasi
has stood as a symbol of Hindu renaissance and preserved the rituals and traditions
of Hindu philosophy. Down the ages, pilgrims from distant lands have come to
Varanasi in search of divine blessings. At a distance of 12 km from Varanasi
lies Sarnath, where Lord Buddha preached his first sermon. Here he revealed
the eight fold path that leads to the attainment of inner peace, enlightenment
and ultimate nirvana. Travel Agent of India
The Ghats
There are around 100 ghats in Varanasi, each with its own significance, more
information you will get when getting touch with an
Indian Travel Operator.
Most Indians believe that anyone dying on the banks of the river, in Varanasi,
attains instant 'Moksha' or enlightenment. Pilgrims flock the Ghats to have
a ritual bath and perform puja to the rising sun, following centuries old tradition.
The Dasashvamedh Ghat offers a splendid view of the river front. Other special
ghats are the Asi, Barnasangam, Panchganga and Manikarnika Ghats.
Temples
Temples form the major source of attraction in this ancient city. Providing
the backdrop is an incredible array of temples and ancient buildings,
several of them standing at odd angles because their foundations have been
eroded unevenly by flood waters. There are 2,000 temples and shrines in
Varanasi, but the holiest, Vishvanatha, is closed to non-Hindus.
Vishwanath temple: Dedicated to Shiva or Vishveswara is the Golden
Temple, the main temple of Varanasi.
The
Durga Temple: Commonly known as the Monkey Temple, was built in the 18th
century by a Bengali Maharani, and is stained red with ocher. This small
temple, dedicated to Goddess Durga, consort of Shiva, is built in north
Indian Nagara style, with a multicolored shikhara or umbrella.
The Bharat Mata temple: It was inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi and
houses one of the most perfect relief maps of India carved out of marble.
Tulsi Manas Temple: This temple is dedicated to Lord Rama. The
temple is built in the place where Goswami Tulsidas composed the epic
'Ramacharitramanas' which provides us with detailed description of the
history and deeds of Lord Rama.
Banaras Hindu University
Founded by Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya it is considered to be the largest
residential university in Asia. Within the university campus, Vishwanath
Temple and Bharat Kala Kendra (Museum) are well worth a visit.
Festivals
The festive magic never ends in Varanasi. If Poornima cleanses, Maha
Shivratri blesses. If Holika-Dahan is a celebration, Dhrupad Mela is a
revelation. One does not require making his itinerary according to the dates
and months of the festivals. One can come and enjoy the festive season
anytime of the year here.
Yoga
Honeymooners interested in Yoga can pay a visit to the Malviya Bhavan at
the Banaras Hindu University, where courses in Yoga and Hindu Philosophy are
offered. There are also many private teachers and organizations offering
courses.
