Varanasi is a significant pilgrimage site and tourist destination.
It is one of the world's oldest cities that is still populated. The city is
relatively close to numerous tourist attractions including Sarnath and
Ramnagar. The Ganges River flowing through Varanasi contributed to the city's
prosperity in ancient times. Numerous rituals and activities are carried out
along the river's banks because the locals worship the river as a goddess.
Sarnath is a popular Buddhist tourist destination.