One
of the oldest living city in the world, Varanasi is situated on the left bank
of river Ganges and is a sacred spot for Hindus. It has long been known as a
learning center and is synonymous with spiritualism and mysticism. Every devout
Hindu wants to come to this city and take a holy dip at the ghats of Ganga and
if God's will die here in old age.
The
city of temples, it has also been known for its heritage of music, art and
literature. Varanasi offers a myriad of experiences to its visitors. A visit to
this ancient city could be a life-changing experience. A boat ride on the
gentle waters of Ganges during sunrise, a visit to an array of shrines, wander
around the narrow alleys of the city, a walk to the temple spires, chanting of
mantras and the sight of hundred lighted oil lamps during the evening aarti
and the divine smell of incense in the air- all offer a mystifying experience
that is unique and lets you get in touch with your spiritual side.
A
holy place for Hindus, Varanasi also finds mention in the mythology. It has
been believed that this is the place where Lord Shiva and his consort Parvati
stood when time stated ticking for the first time. Many mythical characters are
believed to have lived here. The city is also called the city of Shiva and that
is why it is an important pilgrimage site. It is home to numerous ancient
temples including the renowned Kashi Vishwanath Temple which is dedicated to
Lord Shiva and has a 'lingam' that goes back to the time of the epics and
believed to be the abode of Shiva in Varanasi.
Every
year thousands of devotees come to this sacred city in hope of attaining moksha
and why not? It has all the possibility of spiritual transformation with
spectacles and the activities going around the city. This is the place where
the rituals of life and death takes place on the ghats and is believed to be a
way to salvation. A walk through the ghats or a boat ride during the sunrise is
the most captivating experience here.
On
your India tour, a
visit to this holy city will introduce you to the ancient but still surviving
traditions of India that will surely be an enlightening experience. Do not
forget to watch the soul touching sight of evening aarti. Make a visit to the
ashrams and try meditation which will provide peace to your mind and get in
touch with your soul. You will surely be a changed person after visiting this
ancient city.
