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Varanasi

Standing tall on the banks of the holy Ganges, Varanasi shimmers like an ancient jewel.

Imagine narrow, winding lanes teeming with life, vibrant ghats bustling with activity, and a palpable hum of spirituality that hangs heavy in the air. This is your invitation to journey into one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.

Varanasi is much more than just a travel destination; it’s a captivating tapestry woven with threads of history, breathtaking architecture, and vibrant culture. Legend whispers that Lord Shiva himself, the cosmic dancer, founded Varanasi over 5,000 years ago, making it a pilgrimage site for Hindus ever since. Empires have risen and fallen, yet the city’s ancient roots remain firmly embedded, whispering stories through its labyrinthine streets as you wander.

Yonder’s Varanasi

As you amble through the city, the fabric of the city seems to whisper tales of bygone eras. The ghats, those iconic steps leading down to the Ganges, are no mere picturesque backdrop; they’re a living testament to Varanasi’s rich history. Each ghat boasts its own unique story, from the ornate Dasaswamedh Ghat, where the legendary ten horse sacrifices were performed, to the serene Assi Ghat, believed to be the meeting point of the sacred rivers Assi and Ganges.

Beyond its iconic ghats, Varanasi is adorned with countless temples, each radiating their own unique charm. Of note is Kashi Vishwanath, a majestic temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.

And the cultural tapestry of Varanasi is truly breathtaking. From ancient traditions and rituals to vibrant artistic expressions, the city pulsates with life. Witnessing the Ganga Aarti at Dasaswamedh Ghat is an experience that will forever etch itself in your memory. As evening sets in, priests clad in saffron robes offer prayers to the river, accompanied by the rhythmic clang of bells and the intoxicating aroma of incense. It’s a sensory overload that lingers long after the ceremony ends.

Varanasi pulsates with the rhythm of classical music, dance, and literature. The Benaras Gharana, a renowned school of classical music, has produced generations of maestros who have channeled the very soul of the city through their art. Poets, writers, and artists have also found inspiration in Varanasi’s mystique, leaving behind a legacy of countless works that capture its essence.

So, whether you’re a spiritual seeker, an architecture enthusiast, or simply a curious explorer, Varanasi beckons you with its open arms. As the Ganges flows gracefully by, the city stands as a testament to the timeless beauty of India’s rich heritage. Come, join me as we unravel the secrets hidden within its ancient walls, where every cobblestone whispers stories and every ghat echoes with the murmurs of history.

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Tailor-Made varanasi Holidays

THE YONDER DIFFERENCE

Off-the-shelf is off the menu at Yonder: from the moment you first get in touch you'll be in the hands of a senior executive who has spent years getting to know your destination first-hand. Other travel companies might talk a big game about expertise and customisation but, to blow our own trumpet for a minute, we're in a league of our own.

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Whether you are looking for the perfect hotel stay or to create an exciting itinerary tailored just for you, every last detail of your trip with Yonder is carefully crafted, including hand-picked hotels that we adore ourselves

Ganges, Tigers & Palaces

Ganges, Tigers & Palaces

20 Days | From £4,985 (Inc. Flights)

Visiting: Varanasi, Agra, Ranthambore National Park, Jaipur, Jodhpur

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Grand Tour of the North

Grand Tour of the North

14 Days | From £4,495 (Inc. Flights)

Visiting: Varanasi, Shimla, Chandigarh, Amritsar, Agra

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Postcards from our previous clients

David Edwards

We booked our India holiday through Yonder and they delivered from start to finish. From their choice of hotels (all great,...

Dan Lawrence

Used Yonder recently for a holiday to Sri Lanka for my girlfriend and I and I have nothing but positive feedback for them.<...

Chris

From the time we first contacted them to when we arrived back from our holiday, Yonder delivered everything and more they p...

Harriet Partridge

Yonder exceeded all our expectations and sorted such an incredible honeymoon for us. Efficient, organised and personable wi...

Our Recommended Accommodation In Varanasi

The Brijrama Palace

Nestled on the sacred banks of the Ganges River in Varanasi, the Brijrama Palace stands as a testament to architectural finesse and timeless elegance.

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