Varanasi (Kashi) has long been regarded as the ultimate Hindu pilgrimage destination. Varanasi, also known as Benares, is the world's oldest living city. “Benaras is older than history, older than myth, older even than fiction, and looks half as old as all of them put together,” writes Mark Twain. Hindus claim that dying on the holy land of Varanasi will grant immortality and liberation from the cycle of birth and rebirth. It is the home of Lord Shiva and Parvati. The Ganges in Varanasi is said to have the power to wipe away mortal sins.
Varanasi, which has over 2000 temples, is a major pilgrimage destination for people from all over India. Kashi Vishvanath Temple, Sankat Mochan Temple, Durga Temple, Kal Bhairav Temple, and Mrityunjaya Temple are some of the city's most well-known temples. Most of these temples, according to common opinion, date from the medieval period. Given Varanasi's abundance of temples, it's no surprise that the city is known as "The City of Temples."
A visit to Varanasi by a middle-aged person living in India is almost a given. The reason for this is the site's rich heritage and religious importance, as well as the architecture and sculpture that has preserved the past for all time. It is regarded as one of India's holiest cities, with numerous temples and ghats that attract pilgrims from all over the world. Of note, the fact that the Ganga goes through Varanasi just adds to its holiness!
