Uplifting Journeys

Varanasi, with its many temples, mighty river Ganga and myriad other attractions, is a haven for pilgrims that can fill the hearts of other holidaymakers, too, with happiness.

- Nithya Subramanian

Varanasi Ghats at night-varanasi – a spiritual city - is all that India stands for. If one were looking for moksha or salvation, this would be the place to visit. Both symbolically and literally, you can experience India here.

The mighty Ganga, the most sacred river for the Hindus, is known to be the calmest here, descending from the Himalayas. And on its banks is Varanasi or Benaras or Kashi. Legend has it that this city was founded by Lord Shiva and was his favourite abode. He called Kashi his “royal palace.”

Benaras is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with settlements dating back to the 11th century. Mark Twain described it as ‘older than history, older than tradition.’ While it has always been an important pilgrimage centre, an atheist too will have much to see and experience.

There are about 84 ghats on the banks of the river Ganga with Manikarnika and Panchganga being the most popular. While some of these ghats may be known as burning ghats, the mere sight of the Ganga during sunrise is a sight to behold. You start your day by taking in this majestic view. Each day thousands of pilgrims visit these banks to take a holy dip and wash away their sins.