Fun Facts About Varanasi, India

Known as the spiritual capital of India, Varanasi is a sacred city in northern India. Located on the banks of the Ganges River, the city is the destination for Hindu pilgrims. Thousands of temples dot the city, including the famous Kashi Vishwanath temple dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva.

Varianasi
Varanasi is one of the oldest cities in the world, and many historians believe that it is as old as five thousand years. However, there are some experts who believe it is even older. Whatever the case, Varanasi has always been known for its charm and beauty. Here are a few fun facts about Varanasi.

It is a holy city
Varanasi, India is a holy city for both Hindus and Buddhists. It is the oldest city in the world and is considered sacred by both religions. This city has a long and fascinating history and is steeped in ritual, myth, and history. The city is surrounded by the sacred river Ganges and is the site of many Buddhist ceremonies and rites.

Varanasi is said to be located between the confluence of the rivers Varuna and Ganga. There is also a small rivulet called Assi, which has always been there. The distance between the confluences is 2.5 miles, and religious Hindus believe that crossing this river is a sacred ritual.

It is a center of learning
Varanasi has numerous educational institutions. In fact, the city has three Kendriya Vidyalaya, one of which is located at BHU, the regional office of the KVS. Both these institutions are accredited by the British Council. Both these schools offer a high-quality education to students.

The city was once the center for Sanskrit learning, and books were stored in large halls. The Puranas, which were considered the simplest form of the four Vedas, were taught in these institutions. In addition, students of medicine learned the peculiar science of medicine, while students of astronomy learned the science through tables and theories. Students of geography also learned geography in unique forms.

It is a pilgrimage site
The city of Varanasi is one of the seven most holy cities in India, according to Hindu beliefs. This city is situated on the banks of the Ganges River, which has a high religious significance. It is a site of pilgrimage for many Hindus and also holds an important place in Buddhist tradition. There are several Hindu temples in Varanasi, including the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. The city is also home to the Shakti Peetha.

In the 8th century, the city was home to Parshva, the 23rd Jain Tirthankara. The city is famous for its floral offerings, which are released into the river during the celebration of Mahashivaratri.

It is a shopping destination
There are a number of shopping opportunities in Varanasi. You can shop for hand-knotted carpets from Mirzapur or buy musical instruments. You can also sample some of the famous Indian sweets, such as Lal Peda. The best way to sample these sweets is to visit a local shop, where the shopkeepers usually offer free samples. If you want to take home a few samples, you can purchase them in small boxes.

You can also shop for home decor items. Among the most popular items available in Varanasi are colorful picture frames, figurines, and vases. You can also find stone-carved items. A few of these are slightly more expensive, but are beautiful and will look stunning in your home. You can also purchase souvenirs depicting the famous ghats and temples of Varanasi.

It is a spiritual center
In Varanasi, you can experience the power of spirituality and contemplation. The city is also home to several sacred sites. The Ganges River, one of the holiest rivers in India, is a popular spot for Hindu pilgrims. You can also witness the Varanasi Ganga Aarti, a highly choreographed religious ritual that takes place at sunset. The aarti is accompanied by music, incense, and chants that can be heard in the air.

Another holy place in Varanasi is the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, which is home to one of the twelve Jyotirlingas - statues that represent the god Shiva. Paying homage to the Jyotirlinga in this temple is said to wash away sins.

It is a place of worship
The city of Varanasi is a place where Hindus go to pay respect to Shiva, the mightiest god in Hinduism. The city is a center for Shiva worship, the oldest known cult. The city is renowned for its ghats, which lead pilgrims to the sacred Ganges. This area is also home to many Hindu temples and shrines.

Among the Hindu religious places of worship in Varanasi is the Golden Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is also the site of the first jyotirlinga, the fiery pillar of light that broke through the Earth's crust and flared towards the heavens. Varanasi is home to numerous temples and shrines, but its main religious focus is the Shivalinga. Another place of worship is the temple dedicated to the Goddess Annapurna, who is revered as the goddess of food and drink.