Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Benares, has been a major centre of Hindu culture and religion for thousands of years, and has been visited by countless travellers over the centuries. In this blog post, we will take a look at some of the most famous historical travellers who have journeyed to Varanasi, and what they had to say about this fascinating city.
Hiuen Tsang or Xuanzang
A Chinese Buddhist monk journeyed to Varanasi in the 7th century CE to study Buddhism. In his famous travelogue Si-Yu-Ki, he described Varanasi as “a centre of learning,” bustling with thousands of students, teachers, and sacred temples. The spiritual ambience and Buddhist monasteries deeply impressed him.
Fa Hien – The Early Buddhist Pilgrim
Fa Hien, a 5th-century Chinese Buddhist monk, visited Varanasi during his pilgrimage to collect Buddhist scriptures. He described the city as a thriving hub of Buddhist teachings and spiritual practices, emphasising its sacred connection to the life of Buddha.
Al-Beruni
The Persian Scholar Al-Beruni, a Persian scholar, travelled to India in the 11th century and wrote about his journey in his book “Kitab-ul-Hind.” In his book, he described Varanasi as a “place of great sanctity and learning, with a large number of monasteries and temples, and a thriving community of scholars and religious leaders.” He also wrote about the city’s famous Ghats and the importance of the Ganges River to the people of Varanasi.
Mark Twain
The American Writer Mark Twain, famous American writer, visited India in 1896 and wrote about his travels in his book “Following the Equator.” In his book, he described Varanasi as a “strange and fascinating city, with its narrow streets, crowded bazaars, and holy river.” He was impressed by the city’s spiritual atmosphere and wrote about the numerous pilgrims who came to bathe in the Ganga, and the many religious ceremonies that could be seen there.
Rudyard Kipling
The British Author Rudyard Kipling, the British author, visited Varanasi in the late 19th century and wrote about his travels in his book “From Sea to Sea.” In his book, he described Varanasi as a “city of contrasts, with its poverty and wealth, its noise and peace, its life and death.” He was fascinated by the city’s spiritual atmosphere and wrote about the numerous religious ceremonies and rituals that could be seen there. Kipling wrote, “Benares is holy. The Ganges washes away all sin, and the city is full of temples.”.
Jean-Baptiste Tavernier
The French Merchant Jean-Baptiste Tavernier, a French merchant, travelled to India in the 17th century and documented his travels in his book “Six Voyages.” In his writing, he portrayed Varanasi as an ancient city with a rich cultural heritage and was particularly intrigued by the Ghats and the religious ceremonies that took place there. Tavernier called the “pagoda of Benares” the most famous temple of the country, after the Jagannath Temple in Puri. He then writes of the recesses on the side of the steps leading to Gangaji and about the sanctity of Gangajal.
William Sleeman
The British Colonel William Sleeman, a British Colonel, visited India in the 19th century and documented his travels in his book “Rambles and Recollections of an Indian Official.” He described Varanasi as a city steeped in tradition, with a long history and rich cultural heritage. Sleeman was fascinated by the many religious practices and rituals that he witnessed in the city. He mentioned Benares as the principal seat of the worship of Mahādēo (Siva).
Francesco Carletti
The Florentine Merchant Francesco Carletti, a Florentine merchant, visited India in the 16th century and documented his travels in his book “Viaggio intorno al mondo.” He wrote about the many temples, monasteries, and Ghats in Varanasi, and was amazed by the religious significance of the city.
Edwin Arnold
The British Poet Edwin Arnold, a British poet, visited India in the late 19th century and wrote about his travels in his book “The Light of Asia.” In his book, he portrayed Varanasi as a city with a rich spiritual and cultural heritage, with its many temples, Ghats, and monasteries. Arnold was deeply moved by the religious ceremonies and rituals that he witnessed in the city.
Alexander Cunningham
The British Archaeologist Alexander Cunningham, a British archaeologist, visited India in the 19th century and wrote about his travels in his book “The Stupa of Bharhut.” In his book, he portrayed Varanasi as a city rich in history and cultural significance, with its many ancient monuments and religious sites. Cunningham was interested in the archaeological and historical aspects of the city, and his writings provide valuable insights into the cultural and religious heritage of Varanasi.
Varanasi is a city that has captured the imagination of travellers and adventurers for centuries. From its ancient temples, Ghats, and monasteries to its rich cultural and religious heritage, Varanasi has something to offer everyone. Whether you’re a spiritual seeker, a history buff, or just looking for an adventure, Varanasi is the perfect destination.
So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for an unforgettable journey to one of the most captivating cities in India. Trust us, the memories you create in Varanasi will last a lifetime! So don’t wait, book your trip today and experience the magic of this ancient city for yourself!
