If you're planning a trip to northern India, a visit to Varanasi is an absolute must. As the holiest city in Hinduism and one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world, Varanasi offers an unforgettable cultural experience. Located in the state of Uttar Pradesh, Varanasi is home to about 1.2 million people across 80 square kilometers. For over 2,500 years, Hindus have made pilgrimages to this sacred city, dedicated to the god Shiva and the goddess Annapurna, building numerous temples in their honor.
Varanasi is often referred to by different names in religious and cultural contexts. In Hindu mythology, the city is known as Kashi, while the name Benares became widely used during the period of Muslim rule. The Muslim influence began in 1193 AD, lasting for around 500 years. From this era, several stunning mosques (such as the Alamgir Mosque) and other significant architectural sites still stand, offering a glimpse into this diverse cultural history.
In the early 18th century, Hindu rulers (Rajas) regained control of Varanasi, but it wasn't until 1775 that the British East India Company took over administration. The Ramnagar Palace, once the seat of the Kings of Varanasi, is now preserved as a museum, providing a fascinating insight into the life of early Indian royalty.
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