Varanasi, also known as Kashi, is not just a city—it’s a spiritual experience unlike any other. Said to be the oldest living city in the world, it is where life and death flow together along the sacred banks of the Ganges River. The narrow lanes and streets of spirituality are alive with pilgrims, priests, and mystics. Here, the cremation ghats like Manikarnika and Harishchandra witness the final rites of thousands, as many believe that dying in Varanasi ensures moksha—liberation from the cycle of rebirth.
Steeped in divine mythology, Varanasi is considered the center of the cosmos, where Lord Shiva himself resides. From ancient scriptures to modern-day believers, this city has been revered as the ultimate gateway to the divine. Each temple, shrine, and ghat holds whispers of cosmic significance, making it a magnet for spiritual seekers.
But beyond the spiritual realm lies a vibrant street culture. Varanasi’s street food is legendary—savor crispy kachoris, sweet jalebis, spicy chaat, and the famous Banarasi paan. Each bite carries the flavor of centuries-old culinary tradition.
A highlight for any visitor is witnessing the Ganga Aarti ceremonies—performed every evening and morning with devotion and grandeur. The evening aarti is a powerful spectacle of light, sound, and chants as priests wave large brass lamps to honor the river goddess, while the morning aarti offers a more serene, meditative experience as the sun rises. Boat rides during these moments offer a magical view of the ghats bathed in golden light and ritual energy.
Explore the lush BHU (Banaras Hindu University) campus, one of Asia’s largest residential universities, and visit the grand Vishwanath Temple within its grounds. A short drive away lies Sarnath, where Buddha gave his first sermon—its ruins and stupas offering a quiet contrast to Varanasi’s chaos.
Recently, Varanasi gained global attention as one of the host cities for India’s G20 Presidency, showcasing its cultural depth, sustainable practices, and global spiritual appeal.
From its burning ghats to its soulful chants, Varanasi is not just a destination—it’s an awakening. For travelers seeking depth, divinity, and discovery, it is a must-visit on any India journey.
