Varanasi is one of the most important pilgrimage sights in India. Situated on the banks of the sacred Ganga, Varanasi has been a centre of learning and civilisation for over 2000 years and it is claimed that it is the oldest continuously inhabited city in the world. It was at Sarnath only 10 kms away that the Buddha first preached his message of enlightenment, 25 centuries ago.

Varanasi's principal attraction is the long string of bathing ghats which line the west banks of the Ganges. An early morning river cruise is a must.