The oldest city in India and the most pilgrimage tourism place – VARANASI Introduction: Varanasi, also known as Banaras or Kashi, is one of the oldest cities in India and one of the most important religious and cultural centers in the country. It is situated on the banks of the river Ganges in the state of Uttar Pradesh and is considered as one of the seven sacred cities of the Hindu religion. The city is famous for its ancient temples, ghats, and narrow alleys. It has a rich history and has been a cultural and educational center for over 3000 years. In this article, we will explore the history, culture, and attractions of Varanasi. History of Varanasi: Varanasi has a rich and varied history that dates back to ancient times. According to legend, the city was founded by Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities of the Hindu religion. It is said that he appeared in a vision to a king named Divodasa and told him to build a city on the banks of the Ganges. The city was originally known as Kashi, which means “the city of light”. Over the centuries, Varanasi has been ruled by various dynasties including the Mauryas, the Guptas, the Mughals, and the British. It has been an important center for learning, religion, and culture for centuries. Many famous scholars, philosophers, and poets have lived in the city over the years, including the famous poet Kabir. Culture of Varanasi: Varanasi is a city with a rich cultural heritage. It is a center of classical music, dance, and art. The city is famous for its Banarasi silk sarees, which are considered to be among the finest in India. The city has also been a center of learning for centuries, with many famous universities and colleges. Religion is an important part of the culture of Varanasi. The city is known for its numerous temples, which are dedicated to various deities of the Hindu religion. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the most famous temples in the city. The temple is believed to have been built in the 11th century, although it has been destroyed and rebuilt several times over the centuries. Other important temples in the city include the Sankat Mochan Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, and the Durga Temple, dedicated to the goddess Durga. Attractions in Varanasi: Varanasi is a city with many attractions for visitors. One of the most popular attractions is the ghats, which are a series of steps that lead down to the river Ganges. There are over 80 ghats in the city, each with its own unique history and significance. The ghats are used for bathing, washing clothes, and performing religious ceremonies. Another popular attraction in Varanasi is the Ramnagar Fort, which is located on the opposite bank of the Ganges. The fort was built in the 18th century and is a fine example of Mughal architecture. It contains a museum that showcases the history and culture of the city. The Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum is another popular attraction in Varanasi. The museum contains a vast coll