Foto: The Kashi Vishwanath Temple (bron: Ronald van der Veer)
India - The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is the holiest site for all branches of Hinduism, with its two golden domes and beautiful architecture. Located on the banks of the Ganges River, which is also considered sacred, this temple is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus from around the world. Many believers bathe in the river to purify their souls and rid themselves of sins from past lives, hoping to escape reincarnation. The Indian government has launched an ambitious project to improve the water quality of the Ganges so people can bathe safely without health risks. The river is heavily polluted by human activity, including industry, sewage, and religious rituals. The project includes various measures such as cleaning up waste, reducing pollution from industrial discharge, and building sewage treatment plants. Nearly 22 million people visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple and the Ganges River annually. It is a place of religious significance and spiritual enlightenment for many, as well as a tourist attraction for travelers from all corners of the globe. The temple symbolizes India’s rich and diverse culture and has great historical value. The Indian government is committed to preserving and protecting this important heritage so future generations can continue to enjoy this beautiful site.
Bicycle tour through Old Delhi
India - It’s just after six in the morning when I meet Bert at the edge of the old city. Bert is Dutch and will accompany me on a bike tour through Old Delhi. I pick an orange-colored bike and place my water bottle in the front basket, which is sponsored by ...
Face to Face with the Taj Mahal
India - Today feels like the big day. I’m going to visit the Taj Mahal, one of the seven new wonders of the world. When I open the curtain in my hotel room, unfortunately, I see a cloudy sky. It even looks like it rained last night. Nevertheless, I want to ...
Golden Sikh Temple in Amritsar
India - I walk through narrow streets toward the famous Golden Temple, asking for directions several times—everyone knows this holy site. At the entrance, I remove my shoes and hand them in at the deposit counter. I also cover my head with an orange cloth, ...
Little Tibet in Ladakh
India - We drive into the Indus Valley by Jeep, following the Indus River up to Hemis Monastery. To reach the monastery, we cross the Indus and ascend into the mountains. Hidden in a mountain alcove, the monastery only becomes visible after the final bend—breathtaking! ...
Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur
India - Mehrangarh Fort, located on an imposing hill above the city of Jodhpur, is one of the largest forts in India and a masterpiece of Rajput architecture. The fort, also known as the "Citadel of the Sun," offers a view over the blue city of Jodhpur and the ...
The Amber Fort of Jaipur
India - The Amber Fort, located on a hilltop about 11 kilometers outside Jaipur, is a stunning fortress and one of the most impressive sights in Rajasthan. The Amer Fort combines Rajput and Mughal architecture and dominates the surrounding Aravalli Hills. Built ...
The fort of Fatehpur Sikri
India - Before we drive back to Delhi for our flight to the Netherlands, we stop at Fatehpur Sikri Fort. This 13th-century fort lies about 40 kilometers outside Agra. Mughal Emperor Akbar the Great had it built at the site of a prophet who foretold that Akbar ...
The sacred Ganges River in Varanasi
India - Varanasi, one of the oldest cities in the world and one of the seven holy cities in Hinduism, is embraced by the sacred Ganges River. The Ganges in Varanasi is more than just a waterway—it is a spiritual lifeline. The ghats along the river form a breathtaking ...