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In ancient times, Varanasi was known a Kashi, and is referred to as Banaras recently. Situated on the bank of the holy river Ganges, Varanasi, derived its name from the amalgamation of two mighty rivers, Varuna and Assi. Being considered the last pilgrimage, it is here, that the Hindu tradition converges to partake in an endless cycle of birth and death, life and salvation. The city is not only large, with a population of over 1.2 million people but is one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world, dating back thousands of years. |
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Varanasi is also referred to as "the city of temples", "the holy city of India", "the religious capital of India", "and the city of lights", and "the city of learning." Mark Twain, an American author and litterateur, during his visit to Varanasi, was fascinated by the legend and purity of Banaras. He said, "Banaras is older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend and looks twice as old as all of them put together." Varanasi is also renowned for its rich tapestry of knowledge, philosophy, culture, devotion to Gods, Indian arts and crafts. It is not only a sacred place for Hindus, but is also a pilgrimage for Jains and Buddhists. Varanasi is believed to be the birthplace of Parsvanath, the twenty-third Tirthankar. Varanasi is the place, nearby the town of Bodh Gaya, where the Bodhi Tree stands, where Gautam Buddha found enlightenment.
Since centuries back, Varanasi is considered the premier centre for some of the finest handicrafts. “Silk weaving”, is one of the most renowned craft of the city. ‘Baranasi Sarees’ produced by local craftsman are among the most preferred, not only in India but across the entire world. Brassware, copperware, ivorywork , glass bangles, wood and clay toys and exquisite gold jewelry are some of the other crafts the city is famous for. Other shopping attractions include the hand-knotted carpets of Mirzapur, musical instruments, the 'khatta-meetha' (sweet 'n' sour) 'Langda Aam', variety of mangoes found in summers and the famous betel leaf, a specialty of this place.
Varanasi is well connected to almost all of the major cities of India, by air, road and rail. <
By Air: Nearest airport is the Babatpur Airport, 22 km from the city, with daily flights to and from Agra, Bhuvaneshwar, Calcutta, Delhi, Khajuraho, Mumbai and Lucknow.
By Train: Varanasi is an important and major rail junction and trains connect it to all the major cities of India including Delhi and Mumbai.
By Road: Smooth good road network and National Highways connect Varanasi to and from Calcutta, Delhi, Kanya Kumari and Gorakhpur. |
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