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Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh



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Varanasi is the oldest inhabited city in the world, where the reigning Hindu deity,Lord Shiva is revered in numerous temples and shrines. The city has a timeless eternal appeal of it's own. A city that should be visited at least once by everyone.  Crowded with temples, and its labyrinth of streets, the city attracts a large number of tourists. The religious capital of Hinduism, Varanasi is the world's most ancient city and was previously called Kashi - the city that illuminates. The present name is derived from the fact that the city is at the confluence of the rivers Varuna and Asi. At a distance of 12 kms from Varanasi is Sarnath where Lord Buddha preached his first sermon after Enlightenment. Here he revealed the eight fold path to Nirvana.



How to reach

By Air -  Varanasi airport is connected to some cities in India including Delhi, Mumbai and Agra.
By Rail - Varanasi has its own railway station
By Road -  Well connected by roads








 

Delhi - Varanasi  Road drive
Highway - NH 2
Time - 10-11 hrs
Distance - 807 kms



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Places to see

The Ghats
The bathing Ghats that line the holy city of Varanasi are best visited by boats that offer a regular service. The most famous among these Ghats are Dasaswamedh, Kedar and Manikarnika.

Vishwanath Temple
This temple, erected by Rani Ahalyabai Holkar of Indore in 1776, is the centre of devotion of the city. The domes of this temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, are lined with gold.

Ram Nagar Fort
This fort was the 17th century home of the Raja of Benaras. Now converted into an interesting museum, this fort houses the royal possessions.

Gyanvapi Mosque
Emperor Aurangzeb, in the 17th century destroyed the Vishweswara Temple and built this mosque over it's ruins.

Banaras Hindu University
This university is housed in an area of nearly 2000 acres. Perhaps the largest residential university in Asia.

Other Temples
Other important temples worth visiting are the Tulsi Manas, Durga Kund, Bharat Mata and New Vishwanath Temple.




Shopping

Apart from visiting these famous places, you can shop for brocades, brassware, ivory-ware, carpets and gold jewellery. Main shopping areas are Chowk, Vishwanath Lane, Gyanvapi, Thatheri Bazaar and Lahurabir.



Cusine

Varanasi has some mouth watering spread of sweets. One should definitely try the "Kachauri" and the vegetarian breakfast. And, of course, don't forget the "Banarasi paan" (Betel leaf).   



Fesitvals

The important festivals are Buddha Purnima, Chetganj Nakkataiya and Ganga Dussehra.
 
Road trip summary Uttar Pradesh
Road trip summary, time, kms and tolls and other information required to plan your road trip.
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Travelogues to Uttar Pradesh
Planning a visit to Uttar Pradesh read through travelogues to plan your trip
 
The climate of Uttar Pradesh is extremely hot in summers and very cold during the winters.
Ideal time to Visit - October - March.

Capital - Lucknow
Uttar Pradesh - Land of Taj
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