🙏 Varanasi (Kashi Vishwanath Temple)
India
About This Sacred Site
Varanasi, also known as Benares or Kashi, is the oldest continuously inhabited city in the world and the holiest city in Hinduism. Situated on the banks of the sacred Ganges River, Hindus believe that dying here liberates the soul from the cycle of rebirth. The city's ghats (steps leading to the river) host daily rituals, cremations, and the spectacular Ganga Aarti ceremony. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is the spiritual heart of the city.
Key Facts
- •One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities, dating back over 5,000 years
- •Hindus believe bathing in the Ganges here washes away sins
- •The city has over 80 ghats along the Ganges riverfront
- •Mark Twain wrote: 'Benares is older than history, older than tradition'
- •The Ganga Aarti ceremony draws thousands of worshippers every evening
Location
Coordinates: 25.3109, 83.0107
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