Varanasi - Located on the crescent shaped left bank of the holy Ganga, Varanasi or Benaras as it is known, is the oldest cities of India. Varanasi is said to be a compound of the names of two streams, the Varuna and the Assi, which still flow in the north and south of the city respectively.

For every visitor Varanasi has different experiences to offer. The shimmering red and golden water of the Ganges with the first rays of dawn falling on them, the high banks, the temples, the Ashrams, the pavilions all are an experience in themselves.

Varanasi is not only known for its temples, Ghats and Ganges but it has also produced many renowned exponents of art, music, literature and crafts. Why only the luminaries, Varanasi has also excelled in the art of silk weaving. The Banarasi silk saris and brocades are cherished as collector's items across the world.

Air : Indian Airlines flies to Babatpur Airport, which is 22 kms. from Sarnath. Varanasi is also connected by air to Agra, Khajuraho, Calcutta, Bombay, Lucknow and Bhubaneshwar.

Rail : Varanasi is an important and major rail junction. Trains with all metros and major cities link the city across the country.

» The Ghats Of Varanasi
In this ancient city of pilgrimage, the bathing ghats are main attraction. People flock here in large numbers every day to take bath and worship in the temples built beside the river bank. Centuries old tradition to offer puja to the rising Sun is still maintained.

» Vishwanath Temple, Varanasi
This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is popularly known as the 'Golden Temple' due to the gold plating done on its 15.5 meter high spire. For this one ton of gold was donated by Maharaja Ranjit Singh. The temple was destroyed by various invaders and was rebuilt in 1776 by Rani Ahilyabai of Indore.

» Durga Temple
Built in the 8th century, the Durga temple is one of the most important temples in Varanasi. This temple is built in Nagara Style. The shikhara of the temple is formed by many small spires which are built one on top of the other.

» Bharat Mata Temple
This temple is dedicated to Mother India. Just one kilometer from the Varanasi station. The temple is built in the Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapeeth which was built by Babu Shiv Prasad Gupt.

» Banaras Hindu University
Founded by Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya this is considered to be the largest residential university in Asia. It houses the Bharat Kala Kendra (museum) and Vishwanath Temple within the campus.

Varanasi has an extreme type of climate.