Varanasi (Kashi)

Varanasi, often called Kashi, is the first on this list of the best pilgrimage places in India. This ancient city is a cornerstone of Hindu pilgrimage situated on the banks of the sacred Ganges River. Its history dates back millennia, and its cultural significance is profound.

The attraction of Varanasi lies in its ghats, stone steps that lead pilgrims and visitors down to the holy river. Dashashwamedh Ghat witnesses the daily spectacle of the Ganga Aarti, a mesmerizing ritual where priests offer prayers to the river. Another notable place is Manikarnika, where cremation can free the cycle of rebirth.

The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a spiritual epicenter. Pilgrims seek the blessings of the higher and the chance to have a ritual bath. Nearby, the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, draws devotees seeking divine protection.

Varanasi's labyrinthine alleyways hide numerous other temples, shrines, and ashrams, each contributing to the city's spiritual tapestry. The spiritual atmosphere of Varanasi is touchable, with the sound of chanting and the fragrance of incense in the air.