Indian city voted one of the best destinations for travellers

Indian City, Varanasi has just received a silver award for customer satisfaction in the Wanderlust Travel Awards 2007. Based on travellers experiences over the past year, nearly 3,000 consumers voted in the annual awards organised by the UK’s leading independent travel magazine.

Varanasi received an impressive 96 per cent satisfaction rating narrowly missing out on the top spot by a mere 0.36 per cent.

Wanderlust Top City finalists were:
1. Luang Prabang, Laos
2. Varanasi, India
3. Cordoba, Spain
4. Siena, Italy
5. San Francisco, USA

Commenting on the awards, Wanderlust editor-in-chief Lyn Hughes said: “It is terrific to see an Indian City in one of the winning spots for the first time. It has always been a popular destination with our readers but this year’s result proves that it is a world class destination. It is a place that exceeds expectations and leaves an indelible impression.”

Vivek Angra from India Tourism is delighted, if somewhat surprised by the win. “Varanasi is an assault on your senses in every sense of the word. It is one of the most holiest cities in India and a visit is an exceptionally spiritual experience. I am surprised it reached the top three as it is not as well known as some of the larger cities but for travellers who like to go to the heart of a destination, a trip to Varanasi really is a trip to the heart of India.”

Full results of the Travel Awards will appear in the March edition of Wanderlust, on sale 15 February. They are also available at wanderlust.co.uk.