Varanasi, India

Varanasi, also known as Benares, is a city in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh dating back to the 11th century B.C. It's one of the holiest cities in Hinduism and Jainism and played an important role in the development of Buddhism. The city is famous for its ghats (series of steps leading down to the river), where pilgrims perform ritual ablutions, and for its vibrant street life. Assi Ghat, Dashashwamedh Ghat, and the evening Ganga Aarti are must-see experiences. The city's narrow alleys are home to hundreds of temples including Kashi Vishwanath, the 'Golden Temple,' dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. Ideal for visiting from November to February due to the pleasant weather. Summers (April to June) are extremely hot, while the monsoon season (July to September) brings heavy rainfall.