About Varanasi

Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Banaras, is one of the oldest and holiest cities in India, situated on the banks of the sacred Ganges River. With its rich spiritual heritage, Varanasi is a major center for Hindu pilgrimage and is revered for its ancient temples, ghats, and religious rituals. The city is known for the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple, the ghats along the Ganges, and the evening Ganga Aarti, which attracts visitors from around the world who seek spiritual solace and enlightenment. In addition to its religious significance, Varanasi is also an important educational hub. The city is home to Banaras Hindu University (BHU), one of India’s largest and most prestigious educational institutions. Founded in 1916, BHU offers a wide range of programs in arts, sciences, engineering, medicine, and social sciences, and is recognized for its strong academic reputation. Varanasi also has several other colleges and institutions focused on traditional arts, music, and culture, as well as modern fields such as law, business, and engineering. The city’s deep connection with philosophy, literature, and spirituality continues to attract students, especially those interested in religious studies, history, and cultural arts. Varanasi experiences a hot semi-arid climate with very hot summers, which last from March to June. Temperatures often soar above 40°C (104°F), making this period quite uncomfortable. The monsoon season, from June to September, brings heavy rains, providing some respite from the heat, though it can cause temporary disruptions in the city. Winters, from November to February, are cool and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 20°C (41°F to 68°F). The mild winter weather, combined with the city's cultural and educational significance, makes Varanasi an intriguing destination for both scholars and tourists alike.