- Information
- Traveler Advice
- Forums
48HourVisit.com
Planning a short visit? Check out 48HourVisit.com, your online guide for short stays and weekend getaways. Ad
Varanasi Travel Guide
For thousands of years, very little has changed in Varanasi: temples and palaces still tower over the narrow riverbank streets and the Hindu devotees line the ghats (a series of steps) that lead to the Ganga (Ganges) River where they cremate their dead or take the penitential bath with the ardent hope that the sacred waters will cleanse them of their sins. Walking around, tourists will be struck by an unmistakable aura of mysticism and spirituality that is likely to linger even after leaving the place. If it is a special day, tens of thousands chanting Male devotees walk around with only paint to cover their bodies and women wear vibrant sari and brass jewelry. No doubt, Varanasi is the heart of Hindu culture and religion.
Located in the country's northern region, this spiritual capital is known by many names such as Kashi and Benares. The name Varanasi, however, comes from the two neighboring rivers that meet in the Ganges: Varuna in the north and Assi, found south. This holy city is a pilgrimage site, especially to the followers of the destroyer-god Shiva and to the Hindu people in general, similar to the Mecca of the Moslems.
The Hindus not only consider the Ganga as a hallowed place to bathe in, but also as a favorable place to die, as it is said to bestow moksha (freedom from rebirth and suffering). In Manikarnika's ghats, funeral pyres of devotees are open for the public to see. As the "city of temples," it has a large collection of Hindu temples such as the Vishwanath (the town's most popular), Durga (where non-Hindus can reach only up to the courtyard), and the Bharat Mata (which takes pride on its marble map of India). Varanasi is also famous as the home of a great educational institution, the Benares Hindu University, a center of information on Indian religion, culture, art, and philosophy. The only downside to this otherwise beautiful location is the perennial problem of filth, smoke and dust.
Varanasi Landmarks:
- Bars (3)
User blogs:
Global warming: good for winegrowing?
Climate change has silver lining for English vineyards As world leaders grapple with how to tackle climate change in Copenhagen next week, England's winegrowers are embarrassed to admit that global warming is suiting them rather well. This year's crop has been one of the best yet, with a record three million bottles produced -- twice the average production of the past five ... Read full Blog post
Ati-atihan in Kalibo Aklan
Ati-atihand origins ccan be traced to 1210 when refugees from Borneo would smear their faces with soot in affectionalte immitation of the Filipino natives The island of Panay in the Visayas is where this particular detail of Philipine history took place sometime ih the late 12th or early 13th century. For centuries hence, it has been commemoratged in one specific place - in Kalibo, the capital ... Read full Blog post
In our Magazine
Summer Destination to Avoid: Gulf of Mexico
EPA is failing to do their job monitoring the air and reporting factual data. The people need to be made aware that their lives and long term livelihood are at stake because of the air quality in Gulf of Mexico.
How to Avoid Traveling Troubles
Traveling to a certain destination might not become memorable if there are too many troubles along the way. Remember that even the best trips are usually not trouble-free. Follow these tips that help lessen the hassles.
Unique Toys from Japan
Japan is known for its fascinating, and sometimes, eccentric culture. From anime, karaoke, to advanced technology, the Land of the Rising Sun always has something unique to offer.
