Varanasi, India - The City of Death
Travel to the city of Varanasi and you will travel back in time.
No other city in India will impact you more than ancient
Varanasi.
Varanasi
One of the oldest cities in the world, Varanasi is located in
the upper east area of India and is not far from the border with
Nepal. Sitting on the Ganges River, the city is an overwhelming
display of crowds, colors and ancient Indian architecture. Roads
are packed with people, cars, cows and the pavement is more or
less dirt and mud depending upon when you are there.
Architecturally, Varanasi is a typical of India itself. You'll
find shanty towns and run down homes laying in contrast to
stunning temples and homes of the Maharajas. If you want to be
impressed, simply walk down to the Ganges River and look up and
down the river. The structures lining the river will remind you
of Venice, Italy, without the glitz. The towering structures are
both beautiful and ancient.
Following this view, a visit to the Darbhanga Ghat is an eye
opener. The massive structure is home to the Maharajas of
Dharbhanga of Bihar. The Ghat reeks of power, mysticism and long
ago ages. You'll know what I mean when you see it.
Ganges
The Ganges is the hub of life in Varanasi. The holiest of
cities, Varanasi is known as the city of light, but is really
the city of death. Believed to have been founded by the Hindu
goddess Shiva, the city is a mecca for those seeking religious
enlightenment. Thousands of Indians seek to cleanse themselves
in the waters each morning, which makes for an explosion of
activity and colorful dresses. The rest of the day will amaze
you even more.
As the holiest Hindu city, many of the Hindu faith believe dying
in Varanasi brings enlightenment. Thousands upon thousands of
Hindus travel to the city in their later years for this purpose.
Charitable institutions and Hindu temples take in the multitude
of elderly. Although not as prevalent as in the past, many of
the deceased are cremated in the open on pyres overlooking the
Ganges. It is truly a site to be seen.
In many ways, Varanasi is a microcosm of India. If you visit
only one place in India, Varanasi should be the destination.