Discover the Holiest City of Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, India

Varanasi, also known as Kashi, is a city located in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. It holds a significant historical and spiritual place in India and is considered one of the oldest living cities in the world. Varanasi is situated in the middle Ganga Valley, specifically in the eastern part of Uttar Pradesh, along the left crescent-shaped banks of the river Ganges. The city spans an area of 1,550 km2 and has an elevation of 80.71 meters.

This ancient city, claimed to have been built by Lord Shiva himself, is a cornerstone in the fabric of Indian spirituality and culture. Known as the spiritual capital of India, Varanasi draws a large number of Hindu pilgrims who come to bathe in the sacred waters of the Ganges and perform exorcisms and funeral rites. Through the guidance of the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, which was commissioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the current population of Varanasi has more than tripled, attracting more tourists and pilgrims than ever before.

Varanasi is a city rich in history and tradition, dating back to the 11th century B.C. With its numerous temples, including the Kashi Vishwanath, also known as the Golden Temple, dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, the city is a vibrant tapestry of spiritual and cultural heritage. The winding streets of Varanasi are adorned with 2000 temples, contributing to its status as a holy city, not only for Hindus but also for the global spiritual community.

Geographical Location

Varanasi is geographically situated in the eastern part of the state of Uttar Pradesh, India. It lies in the middle Ganga Valley, which is historically and culturally significant. The city is the southernmost point of the Ganga basin and is a crucial city for the Hindu pilgrimage routes.

The city's postal code is 221001 and its telephone code is 0542. Vehicles in Varanasi are identified with the UP-65 registration code. It is a vibrant and bustling city, with a population of over 1.2 million as of the 2001 census, exhibiting a population density of approximately 1,211 people per square kilometer.

Historical and Cultural Significance

Varanasi is one of the most mythically and historically important cities in India. According to Hindu tradition, the city was built by Lord Shiva himself, making it a living link to ancient Indian mythology. Varanasi is believed to be one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world, predating the birth of many other major cities in India by centuries.

Modern Development

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the city has seen significant development and modernization. The Kashi Vishwanath Corridor is a notable project that has helped to enhance the city's infrastructure and improve its tourist appeal. The corridor has made it easier for visitors to access and explore the city, leading to a surge in tourism and pilgrimage.

The city's significant religious practices and historical importance continue to attract millions of pilgrims and tourists annually. From performing exorcisms and funeral rites to exploring its historical temples and cultural heritage, Varanasi remains a city that holds immense spiritual and cultural value for India and the world.