Did You Know?

Did you know that Varanasi in India is considered one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world and a significant religious center for Hindus? Located on the banks of the Ganges River, Varanasi is believed to be a place of spiritual liberation. It is a major pilgrimage site, and Hindus visit to perform religious rituals and cremate their loved ones.

Did you know that Mecca in Saudi Arabia is the holiest city in Islam? Muslims from around the world travel to Mecca for the Hajj pilgrimage, which is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. The focal point of the pilgrimage is the Kaaba, a cube-shaped structure located within the Masjid al-Haram.

Did you know that Uluru (Ayers Rock) in Australia is a sacred site for the Indigenous Anangu people? This massive sandstone monolith holds great spiritual significance and is a symbol of ancestral beings and creation stories. Climbing Uluru is now discouraged out of respect for the Anangu people's cultural beliefs.

Did you know that Stonehenge in England is a mysterious ancient monument that has spiritual and astronomical significance? This prehistoric stone circle, dating back thousands of years, is aligned with celestial events such as the summer solstice. It is believed to have been a sacred site associated with rituals and ceremonies.

Did you know that Angkor Wat in Cambodia is the largest religious monument in the world? Built in the 12th century, this vast temple complex was originally dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu but later transformed into a Buddhist site. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage site and an important pilgrimage destination for Buddhists.

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Discover The Timeless Charm Of India's Ghats Of Varanasi

Scenic view of the historic ghats of Varanasi, India, with steps leading to the Ganges River and colorful buildings along the riverbank.

Those of you who have viewed the beautiful 2005 film, “Water”, directed by Deepa Mehta have already seen the Ghats of Varanasi. The film is largely shot there, and the dramatic climax scene takes place on the Ghats, as the tragic Kalyani, played by Lisa Ray, a widow confined to an ashram in Varanasi, makes her statement about life and love.

These Ghats are a series of 88 sets of steps that lead from the land to the shores of the River Ganges, or directly into the river itself. Made of stone, the riverfront stairs are mostly used for bathing, as locals descend into the water safely for a wash (which also occurs during the film), or for a puja ceremony (a Hindu prayer ritual); two Ghats are reserved for cremation services.

As Indian cities go, Varanasi is one of the safest, and is frequented by tourists from all over the world. This amazing sacred place tends to draw the devoted, serene and respectful visitor, and is widely regarded as a hallowed location (even though bathing can erupt into fun!). It is stunning at dawn, even more spectacular at sunset.

Arguably the most famous Ghat is Assi Ghat, where pilgrims are able to connect with the river waters believed to be the “lingam” (phallic symbol) of Lord Shiva. These venerable Ghats date from the 1700s when Varanasi was part of the Maratha Empire, so not only are they unique, they are bathed (pun intended!) in history.