Varanasi, or Benaras, (also known as Kashi) is one of the oldest living cities in the world. Abode of Lord Shiva and Parvati, the origins of Varanasi are yet unknown. The land of Varanasi has been the ultimate pilgrimage spot for Hindus for ages situated on the banks of the River Ganges in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. Hindus believe that one who is graced to die on the land of Varanasi would attain salvation and freedom from the cycle of birth and re-birth. Being a center of religious, educational, cultural and artistic activities, Kashi drew many learned men from around the world. 

The city went into a destructive phase for three centuries under the Muslim rule. Assi Ghat, Dashashwamedh Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Tulsi Manas Temple, Durga Temple, Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, Chinese Temple Of Lord Buddha, Sita Samahit Sthal, Tibetan Temple, Batuk Bhairav Mandir, Bharat Mata Mandir, Gyan Vapi Well, Ramnagar Fort & Museum, Chunar Fort, Sarnath, Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, Man Mandir Observatory, Alamgir Mosque, Banaras Hindu University, Boat ride at Ganges and The Banaras Silk Emporium.

Agra capital of the erstwhile Mughal Empire, located on the banks of River Yamuna in Uttar Pradesh, it is a popular tourist destination as it is home to one of the 7 wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal. In the great epic 'Mahabharat' the region of Agra is described as 'Agraban' (an integral part of the Braj Bhumi or the land of Lord Krishna). The latter part of Indian history outlines the origin of Agra to 1475 A.D., the reign of Raja Badal Singh. Agra came into limelight during the rule of Afghan King Sikandar Lodhi (Lodhi dynasty; Delhi Sultanate) in the 16th century.

Babur (founder of the Mughal dynasty) also stayed for sometime in Agra and introduced the concept of square Persian-styled gardens here. Emperor Akbar built the Agra fort; Jahangir beautified it with palaces and gardens. Shahjahan marked the zenith of Mughal architecture, when he built the Taj Mahal. The post-Mughal era's history of Agra saw the rule of the Jats, Marathas and finally the British taking over the city.