6Varanasi, India
Located on the banks of the Ganges River, Varanasi (also known as Benares) is considered one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world, with history dating back over 3,000 years. It is one of the holiest cities in Hinduism and attracts millions of pilgrims who come to bathe in the sacred river and perform religious rituals. The city has also been a center for spirituality, philosophy, and education for centuries.
Visitors to Varanasi can explore its ancient temples, most notably the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most important Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. The ghats (steps leading down to the river) are the heart of the city’s spiritual life, where rituals, cremations, and ceremonies are performed daily. Varanasi offers a powerful connection to India’s spiritual and cultural heritage.
