What is Varanasi best known for?
Nestled by the holy banks of the Ganga in Uttar Pradesh, Varanasi (some people call it Benaras, or Kashi), is popularly known as the spiritual capital of India. It is considered the holiest amongst the Sapta Puri (Seven sacred cities) by both Hindus and Jains. Not just a religious hub, the city is celebrated for its hand woven muslin and Benarasi silk fabrics, ivory works and intoxicating perfumes.
Here are the things Varanasi is best known for:
- Temples: Varanasi will bewitch the minds of those on a spiritual quest. It houses the most prominent temples of Northern India namely Kashi Viswanath Temple of Shiva, Durga Kund Temple, Parshvanath jain Temple and Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple
- Ghats: Pilgrims from across the world crowd on its sacred Dashashwamedh Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, Panchganga Ghat to attain salvation or perform funeral rites. The grandeur of the evening aarti on the ghats bewitches the soul of the observers.
- Educational hub: It is also an esteemed centre of education, art and music which are practiced in Benaras Hindu University (one of Asia’s largest residential campus).
- Monuments and Forts: Jantar Mantar and Ramnagar Fort by the Ganga, continues to resonate the glorified Mughal architectural heritage. You can also visit the 15 mosques around the city that hold immense historical value.
- Boat ride: You can also soothe your soul with an early morning boat ride in the waters of Ganga.
With unlimited sight-seeing options, Varanasi will definitely jam pack your itinerary.
Airport in Varanasi
Varanasi Airport, also called Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport or Babatpur Airport, is situated at about 18.9 km from city centre Varanasi.
- Airport address – Shahganj, Babatpur District, Uttar Pradesh 221006
- Airport IATA code – VNS