HomeUttar PradeshVaranasi

Best time to visit: October – March

Hugged by the sacred Ganga, Varanasi is an ancient seat of learning in India. Its name is a blend of the two streams, Varuna and Assi, which flow in the north and south of the city respectively. In the medieval times the name suffered some corruption and came to be known as Banaras, which remained in use till 1956 when it was reverted to Varanasi. It is among the most ancient living cities in India. It is of particular significance to Hindus and is visited by millions of devotees round the year. The ghats are a delight to watch from a crusie on the Ganga at nightfall when the entire stretch is dressed in a resplendent blaze of lights

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, enlightment and ultimate Nirvana.
 

By Air: Varanasi is well connected by air to major Indian cities and tourist spots.

By Road: Varanasi has a good network of roads. Frequent public and private buses connect Varanasi to all major towns of Uttar Pradesh and nearby areas.

By Rail: There are two railway stations in Varanasi - the Kashi Junction and the Varanasi Junction (also known as Varanasi Cantonment). One can also catch trains from Mughalsarai, just 10 kms south of Varanasi.