Civilizations have existed here, on the banks of the Ganges River, for at least 3,000 years. Legend has it that Lord Shiva founded this city 5,000 years ago, and Varanasi remains an important pilgrimage site for both Buddhists and Hindus who come to cleanse themselves in the Holy Ganges River at sunrise and sunset.

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Varanasi

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5 of the World's Oldest Cities

Known as the spiritual capital of India, this city in northeastern India holds a treasure trove of insights into ancient Hindu culture.

Civilizations have existed here, on the banks of the Ganges River, for at least 3,000 years. Legend has it that Lord Shiva founded this city 5,000 years ago, and Varanasi remains an important pilgrimage site for both Buddhists and Hindus who come to cleanse themselves in the Holy Ganges River at sunrise and sunset. It's a moving experience to see and hear holy rituals performed by the Brahmins and watch as pilgrims purify themselves in the holy water. With the background of ancient temples set aglow by the rising and setting sun, "otherworldly" is the only way to describe this scene.

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