Varanasi © mckaysavage

One of the ancient seats of learning in India, Varanasi is situated between Delhi and Kolkata, at a bend in the sacred Ganges River. Home to some of the most ancient and revered monasteries in the world, Varanasi remains the place where scholars come to learn the ancient knowledge of the Vedas and hold court on the nature of God.

For over 2,000 years it has been the religious capital of India, more revered and sacred than all the other places of pilgrimage put together. Hindus believe that to die in Varanasi is to be forgiven every sin, to receive instant enlightenment and to immediately be admitted to heaven, no matter who or what you are. As a result, the elderly flock here to end their days, and cremation is big business on the ghats beside the Ganges.

Apart from its religious significance, it is also the hub of many traditional industries and is world-famous for its silks - in particular, its silk brocades. The town does a roaring trade with pilgrims and tourists alike - although, regrettably, this has resulted in Varanasi developing a bit of a reputation for pick-pocketing and luggage left (especially on trains entering and departing Varanasi station).

One of the oldest continuously-inhabited cities in the entire world, there is a real sense of culture about Varanasi. The city is home to many poets, musicians, novelists and philosophers - and you are strongly encouraged to spend some time in the city's tea-houses and local restaurants, where you are gauranteed to be embroiled in some of the most interesting conversations of your life.