Encyclopedia of India–China Cultural Contacts v2.c13.s3.t2.104

v2.c13.s3.t2.104

Varanasi (also Benaras or Kashi), on the banks of river Ganges in Uttar Pradesh, is one of the most ancient living cities of the world – having archaeological and written records of its continuing existence from about the end of second millennium BCE. Bound by the river Varuna and Asi in the north and south, it derived its name, Varanasi (Varuna + Asi). Its half-moon like location on the banks of holy river Ganges has from time immemorial added to its unique charm. Known as the city standing on the trident of Lord Shiva, its fame as one of the holiest and most reputed abodes of knowledge attracted people from all over India as well as visitors from far off. All the famous Chinese travellers in the past visited the city at one time or the other. Its cosmopolitan character has turned it into a microcosm of India. It is known as the "cultural capital of India" or "the bliss city of salvation".