| Varanasi |
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| Population 3,147,927 (in 2001) Altitude 81m Area 1550 square km Languages Hindi, English and Kashika Bhojpuri |
| Varanasi, also known also as Benares and Kashi, is located in the middle of the Ganga valley along the left crescent-shaped bank of the Ganga river. It has the headquarters of Varanasi district and is one of the most sacred cities to Hindus, Buddhists and Jains. It is one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world. Residents mainly speak Kashika Bhojpuri, which is closely related to the Hindi language. People also refer to Varanasi as "the city of temples", "the holy city of India", "the religious capital of India", "the city of lights", "the city of learning" and the "culture capital of India". The name Varanasi has its origin from the names of the two rivers Varuna and Assi. The city lies with the confluence of the Varuna with the Ganges to its north and that of Assi and the Ganges to its south. The name Varanasi was written as Baranasi in the ancient Pali language and was eventually transformed into Banaras. The culture of Varanasi is closely associated with the River Ganges and the river's religious importance. The city has been a cultural and religious centre in northern India for several thousand years. The Benares Gharana form of Indian classical music developed in Varanasi, and many prominent Indian philosophers, poets, writers, and musicians resided or reside there. Ayurveda is said to have originated at Varanasi. Banks and Internet All banking faciliities and numerous internet cafes are available in Varanasi. |