Why Is Varanasi Famous for Tourism?

By Alice Nichols

Varanasi, also known as Benares or Kashi, is one of the oldest and holiest cities in India. Situated on the banks of River Ganges, Varanasi is famous for its rich cultural heritage, religious significance, and tourist attractions. Let us take a closer look at why Varanasi is famous for tourism.

Religious Significance:

Varanasi is considered as one of the seven sacred cities in Hinduism and it is believed that Lord Shiva himself resides here. The city has over 2000 temples dedicated to various deities, and the most famous among them are Kashi Vishwanath Temple and Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple. It is believed that taking a dip in the holy river Ganges in Varanasi can wash away one’s sins.

Rich Cultural Heritage:

The city has a rich cultural heritage and is known for its classical music, dance, and literature. The Benarasi silk sarees are world-famous for their intricate designs and quality. The city also has an ancient university called Banaras Hindu University (BHU) which attracts students from all over India.

Tourist Attractions:

Varanasi has several tourist attractions that draw visitors from across the globe. The Ghats of Varanasi are a series of steps leading down to the river Ganges where people perform various rituals like bathing, praying and offering flowers to the river. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple located near the Ghats is another popular attraction.

Other tourist attractions include Ramnagar Fort which was built in the 17th century by Maharaja Balwant Singh, Durga Temple which was constructed in the 18th century by a Bengali queen, Tulsi Manas Mandir which was built-in 1964 using white marble with verses from Ramcharitmanas inscribed on its walls.

Festivals:

Varanasi is famous for its festivals, the most famous of which is the Kumbh Mela. The Kumbh Mela is a major pilgrimage and festival in Hinduism and is celebrated every 12 years in Varanasi. It attracts millions of visitors from all over India and around the world.

Another popular festival is Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, which is celebrated with great enthusiasm in Varanasi.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Varanasi is a city of immense cultural and religious significance, with numerous tourist attractions that draw visitors from all over the world. From ancient temples to vibrant festivals, Varanasi has something for everyone. A visit to this city is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience that should not be missed.