Varanasi, one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world, is simply destination to unwind. It is the beating heart of the whole Hindu universe as it houses the most revered Hindu temples and religious sites. Located on the holy banks of river Ganges, it is the venue of many sacred rituals and events. Each year millions of visitors flock to this holy city in order to worship the almighty and wash off a lifetime of sins. It is one of the seven most holy cities in India and is known to be an auspicious place to die. It is believed that a death in this city lets one to attain moksha, the ultimate liberation from the cycle of death and birth.
Located in the state of Uttar Pradesh, the city is one important part of the encompassing state. It is a historical city, with many great Hindu rulers and well known priests, poets coming from the city. Arriving at the city is no difficult task, as it is well connected to all major cities in the nation. The city houses its own state of art international airport and there are frequent Delhi to Varanasi flights, Mumbai to Varanasi flights, and Chennai to Varanasi flights etc. Alternatively known as Kashi (meaning the city of life) and Benares, the city is also the venue of cremation among the Hindus. It is a magical city, but at times maybe not for the faint hearted, as many intimate Hindu rituals, like cremation and sacrificing animals are done in open sight.
For a tourist the Varanasi stores a lot of rewarding opportunities to offer. Without doubt, spending the holidays visiting the temples and holy places, worshipping the lord and washing away the sins at the banks of river Ganges are the prime activities to do. In addition to these, watching the pilgrims do their share of rituals and watch them immerse in the pious milieu of the city is another interesting activity. Plus, on a fine day head to the narrow backstreets called galis of the city and then check out the life in there is another interesting activity to experience. These galis also house some of the finest hotels in Varanasithat not just provide a comfortable and convenient accommodation but also go with the spiritual essence of the city.
Talking about hotels in the city, being visited by millions of visitors throughout the year, the city required quality accommodations in sufficient number. The good thing is that there is no dearth of hotels in the city. Be it the luxurious 5 Star hotels that are replete of modern amenities, or the humble cheap hotels, the city consists of all. At the meantime, if one is a value for money type of traveller, there are abundant enough 3 Star hotels in the city that offer a content accommodation at reasonable prices. Suryauday Haveli, The Gateway Hotel Ganges, Hotel Siddhartha, Ramada Plaza JHV, Hotel India, and Hotel Surya are some of the highly-rated 3 Star hotels in Varanasithat one can consider to choose.
Martin Wynn
