If you want a date with spiritual India come to Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. Such is the character of Varanasi that Hindus not only come here to bathe in the holy Ganges but to die also. One of the oldest cities in the world Varanasi is believed to be located on the land between river Varuna and Ashi and hence got the name Varanashi. Varanashi is also called Kashi and Benares. Mark Twain, the great English author and litterateur once wrote, "Benares is older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend and looks twice as old as all of them put together." Vacations India takes you on a journey to a city that has been the centre of education, culture and religion from the time immemorial.

Varanasi is located on the bank of holy river Ganges and has been an important pilgrimage centers in India. The city of temples and ghats fascinates a tourist with its different facets. On the one hand Varanasi is a spiritual town that houses many temples and on the other Varanasi spells the end of the life's journey. It is believed if one is cremated on the ghats of Varanasi one will attain salvation or moksha, breaking the cycle of birth and death.

Tour to Varanasi is a complete experience in itself. As you pass the numerous ghats, you realize faith is a powerful force that makes people come from far off places just to bathe in the holy waters of the Ganges. Many of them take the holy waters back in order to purify their homes. A stroll along the ghats in the early hours reveal a different city as people chant hymns and you notice the air is loaded with sweet fragrance.

There are a number of temples and other tourist attractions that a traveller to Varanasi can visit. The numerous ghats that dot the bank of the Ganges are prime attractions. A visit in the morning is highly recommended as one can see the traditional sun worship when many devotees offer water to Sun god and chant prayers.

The Kashi Vishwanath Temple dedicated to lord Shiva is a most popular temple in Varanasi. The temple is also known as golden temple due to its gold plating dome. Durga Temple built in Nagara style is one of most important temples in Varanasi and is believed to be built in the 8th century. The other important temples in Varanasi include Nepali Temple, Bharat Mata Temple and Tulsi Manas Temple.

Sarnath is another interesting site just 10 kilometres from Varanasi. Associated with the Buddha, it is here Buddha preached his sermons and later the Mauryan emperor Ashok built magnificent stupas and other buildings.
The other important landmarks in and around Varanasi are Bharat Kala Museum, Benares Hindu University, Nandeshwar Kothi, Jantar Mantar, Chunar Fort and Ramnagar Fort.

Shopping in Varanasi can be a wonderful experience as Varanasi is famous for handicraft items. Benaresi silk sarees are the most popular items that you can shop for. Apart from silk sarees and carpets, Varanasi is also popular for brassware, copperware, stone inlay work, glass beads and bangles. Come and discover the spiritual side of Varanasi with Vacations India.