This post is about our 2 days journey to India’s eternal city – Varanasi. Our trip to rediscover who we are and our place in the universe. From chaos to calm, where timeless traditions meet modern aspirations, we explored Varanas’s spiritual essence.
So, sit back and relax as we take you on a magical journey that’ll make you forget the outside world to be at peace.
Nestled on the banks of the sacred river Ganges, Varanasi is a city that breathes spirituality and ancient wisdom. With a history spanning over 3,000 years, this vibrant and colourful city is one of the oldest continuously inhabited places in the world.
Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Banaras, is a mesmerizing tapestry of culture, religion, and tradition that captivates the hearts and minds of visitors from around the globe.
My friend and I embarked on a journey from Delhi to Varanasi, seeking to immerse ourselves in the essence of spirituality and its timeless aura. The experience was nothing short of extraordinary, and I feel compelled to share it with all of you, dear readers. Varanasi, the oldest city, exuded a spiritual charm like no other, serving as a sacred hub of purity and ancient wisdom.
Varanasi has an illustrious past, steeped in mythology and revered by Hindus as the holiest city in India. According to Hindu belief, Lord Shiva, the deity of destruction and creation, chose Varanasi as his abode, making it a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus.
The city has witnessed the rise and fall of empires, the birth of religious movements, and the passage of great scholars and philosophers.
Our Journey to Varanasi Begins
In the fast-paced environment of a bustling metropolis like Delhi, finding moments of peace and relaxation can be a challenge. Therefore, for quite some time, we had been contemplating the idea of seeking a destination where we could experience both inner tranquillity and the enchanting essence of ancient times.
After thorough research and exploration of various options, we discovered that the city of Varanasi emerged as the perfect place to fulfil our aspirations. It promised to offer everything we sought, all in one enchanting location.
Varanasi offers various transportation options for travellers, including flights, buses, trains, and the possibility of a road trip. Considering our desire for a memorable journey, we opted to travel by train, as the Indian Railway has its own charm.
The anticipation built as we boarded the train in Delhi, knowing that the scenic route would enhance our experience. After a lengthy yet captivating journey, we finally arrived at our destination, Varanasi, ready to embark on a soul-enriching adventure.
The first day in Varanasi began with a refreshing morning, greeted by a stunning sunrise and blessed with enchanting weather. Embracing the moment, we hopped on a Rickshaw and made our way to Kashi Ghat, eagerly anticipating the golden rays dancing upon the sacred waters of the Ganga River.
The beauty of the surroundings was so captivating that all worries faded away, and we immersed ourselves in the serenity, savouring every moment of tranquillity.
Without any delay, we eagerly immerse ourselves in the holy waters of the Ganga, seeking purification through the sacred Snaan (Bath). Our fortunes smile upon us as a downpour blesses our journey, enhancing the joy of our experience.
Just as we had heard about Kashi, our experience there mirrored those stories. The sacred ambience enveloped us, surrounded by fervent Lord Shiva devotees chanting “Har Har Mahadev” everywhere, filling the atmosphere with divine energy.
Exploring Ancient Ghats & Temples
After a divine bath and savouring the breathtaking sunrise, we set out to plan our day’s itinerary. Prior to that, we secured a rented room near the revered Kashi Viswanath Temple. Our first destination was the Ghats, followed by some shopping for our family.
Later that day, we were accompanied by rain too.
Starting with Ghats exploration, we began at Dashaswamedh Ghat, a site steeped in Hindu mythology, as it is believed that Lord Brahma created it to welcome Lord Shiva.
This particular Ghat serves as the primary venue for the magnificent Ganga Arti, both in the morning and evening. Subsequently, we embarked on visits to other notable Ghats such as Assi Ghat, Raja Harishchandra Ghat, and Manikarnika Ghat, each with its unique significance and charm.
The banks of the Ganga River are adorned with around 84 Ghats. Among them, Manikarnika Ghat stands out as a place renowned for hosting the grandest cremation ceremonies. Interestingly, when witnessing these solemn rituals at Manikarnika Ghat, a unique sense of fearlessness enveloped me.
My mind transcended into a state of serenity, realizing that this is an undeniable truth inherent in our existence. It serves as a reminder that all of us shall one day confront mortality, leaving behind nothing but a few cherished family members.
After exploring the various Ghats, we excitedly set out to discover the cuisine of Varanasi. We kicked off our journey with refreshing Buttermilk (Lassi) served in traditional Kulladh, a clay-made glass.
After a variety of mouthwatering delicacies, we indulged in some shopping, delighting in the purchase of exquisite Banarasi Sarees, kurtas, and more.
Evening’s Ganga Arti Enchantments
The anticipation of the evening’s Ganga Arti had us eagerly awaiting the moment. To secure a good spot, we arrived an hour early, ensuring we wouldn’t miss a thing. As the sun dipped below the horizon and the enchanting Ganga Arti started, indescribable energy and a positive aura enveloped the atmosphere.
In that magical moment, all our worries and troubles seemed to vanish, as we immersed ourselves completely in the captivating experience.
At the end of our eventful day’s journey, we made a decision to visit a temple known as the abode of the Inspector of Kashi, Lord Bhairav. This divine figure holds the title of “Inspector of Kashi” because the local firmly believes that he tirelessly safeguards the city from all adversities.
Our amazement knew no bounds when we discovered that even in a police station in Varanasi, a reserved seat is kept for Lord Kal Bhairav. His presence and protection were evident throughout the city, leaving us in awe of the deep-rooted faith.
The following morning, during the serene hours, we set off to visit the sacred Kashi Vishwanath Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Owing to the temple’s strict rules, mobile phones and electronic devices were prohibited, allowing us to be fully present in the divine ambience.
Later, our journey led us to the historical site of Sarnath, where Gautama Buddha delivered his inaugural sermon.
It was an exhilarating adventure, as we explored both the divine energy of the temple and the profound historical significance of Sarnath. This remarkable experience impacted us, influencing our perspectives and reshaping our way of life.
As we are exploring Varanasi, you should also know these lesser-known facts about this ancient city.
Lesser-known Facts about Varanasi
We know that Varanasi is the oldest city and is well known for its sacred vibes. It is considered one of the holiest places for Hindus and attracts millions of pilgrims and tourists each year. While many facts about Varanasi are well-known, here are some facts about this ancient city.
- Famous Sanskrit University: Varanasi is home to the Banaras Hindu University (BHU), which was founded in 1916 and is one of the largest residential universities in Asia. It has been instrumental in promoting education and preserving Indian culture.
- Miniature Painting Hub: During the Mughal era, Varanasi was a significant centre for miniature paintings, featuring unique styles and techniques. The artists produced exquisite artwork depicting mythological stories, religious themes, and the daily lives of the people.
- Silk Capital of India: Varanasi is renowned for its silk sarees and textiles, especially the famous Banarasi silk sarees. The traditional weaving techniques have been passed down through generations, making it a vital cottage industry for the region.
- Maha-Maratdanda: On the banks of the Ganges, there is a large ancient stone slab known as “Maha-Maratdanda,” which translates to “the great death penal pillar.” It was used in ancient times for capital punishment, but today it serves as a reminder of the city’s historical past.
- Living Ghats: Varanasi’s Ghats are famous for their religious significance and rituals. However, many of the Ghats also serve as cremation sites. Some Ghats, like Harishchandra Ghat and Manikarnika Ghats, are dedicated exclusively to cremation ceremonies.
- Unique Music Tradition: The city has its distinctive music tradition known as “Benares Gharana,” a classical music style practised for generations by prominent musicians of Varanasi.
- Ancient Astronomy: Varanasi has a rich tradition of astronomy and astrology. It was home to famous scholars like Varahamihira, who made significant contributions to the field of mathematics and astronomy.
As our captivating journey from Delhi to Varanasi comes to an end, we are forever changed by the spiritual energy, historical grandeur, and cultural richness that we have witnessed along the way.
Delhi has enticed us with its bustling streets, and Varanasi has ignited our souls with its divine aura. These experiences have left unforgettable memories in our hearts, and we depart with a profound sense of gratitude for the incredible tapestry that is India.
In the end, I also invite you to this voyage of healing. Come visit Varanasi and rediscover your inner self.
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July 23, 2023 at 7:05 pm
🙏🙏
July 23, 2023 at 8:32 pm
🙏
July 23, 2023 at 7:27 pm
Wow… Its too amazing … Lovely videos n wonderful photos
July 23, 2023 at 8:32 pm
Thank you and I am glad you like the post 😊
July 23, 2023 at 11:18 pm
Thanks I love videos. Anita
July 24, 2023 at 11:38 am
Thankyou 😊
July 24, 2023 at 11:28 am
So, this is the destination I would love to explore for rejuvenation. Do you think winter would be right time? as me and my mom planning a visit to India next year.
July 24, 2023 at 11:43 am
We welcome you in India, you can visit Varanasi.But of course winter is the best time to visit Varanasi because at that time you will not face the humid climate of Varanasi.
Don’t miss the Ganga Arti and Vishwanath temple. You will definitely feel positive energy.
And let me know what I can help you
Thanks for stopping by 😊
July 25, 2023 at 12:08 pm
Wonderful Deepak, adding this on my go-to list during my time in India. Thanks for the recommendation. My mom would be so happy to be there.
July 26, 2023 at 7:43 am
It’s my pleasure.😊
July 24, 2023 at 7:32 pm
This sounds amazing Deepak. Thanks for sharing Varanasi with us. Such a beautiful enriching experience and i LOVE the pics. So happy you enjoyed it so much💕
July 26, 2023 at 7:45 am
Thank you Cindy for appreciation. 😊
July 27, 2023 at 4:14 pm
So amazing, I enjoyed reading your personal experience. Such a blessing to make this journey.
July 27, 2023 at 4:38 pm
Thank you for your appreciation 😊
July 27, 2023 at 4:39 pm
You are welcome.
July 27, 2023 at 4:40 pm
😊
August 5, 2023 at 5:07 pm
Thank you so much for sharing about this extraordinary city! I can sense the spiritual tranquility and fearlessness it gave you. I loved learning about the Ghats, Ganga River and a bit of its history. My husband has been in Varansi and says it is an amazing place! I thoroughly enjoyed the videos and wow, that is rain! A great post!
August 5, 2023 at 8:40 pm
Thank you so much Annika for appreciation. Yes Varanasi is a divine place where you can find everything in one place. I must insist you to come to India and enjoy the spiritual sense and peace. Hope your husband loves Varansi.😊
August 9, 2023 at 5:28 am
I loved reading about your trip to Varanasi, Deepak. It brought back wonderful memories from my stay in Varanasi – one of my favorite places in India. Also, reading about your trip made me want to return there as there was much that I had not seen especially the Sarnath, where Gautama Buddha delivered his inaugural sermon. I am so sorry that I missed that. It must have been truly special. I so agree with you that Varanasi ignites one soul with divine aura! Thank you for sharing this extraordinary trip and your wonderful photos. Much appreciated.
August 9, 2023 at 12:01 pm
I’m glad you enjoyed reading about my trip to Varanasi! It’s wonderful how our experiences there resonate with each other. Sarnath is indeed a remarkable place, and I hope you get to visit it next time. The spiritual atmosphere of Varanasi is truly captivating. Thank you for your kind words and appreciation!
August 9, 2023 at 11:42 am
I remember when I was in Varanasi in 2019 with my children, I decided to take part in the morning ritual of watching the sunrise from a boat on the Ganges. There was a distant sound of temple bells making a surreal ambience. As I sat there, I noticed a mischievous monkey dashed towards me and snatched the banana from my hand and my children were screaming😆 hahaha!
It was a comical sight to negotiate with a monkey who was enjoying my morning snack. The locals around me laughed, suggesting I let the monkey have its prize.
That moment I realized the significance of letting go of attachments and embracing the present.
August 9, 2023 at 12:00 pm
It sounds like you had quite the memorable experience in Varanasi! The sunrise ritual on the Ganges, the temple bells, and the mischievous monkey added a unique touch to your journey. Monkey are the symbol of God in our culture so I think people suggest you to leave him eating banana😅.
Hope to see you again in India.😊
October 3, 2023 at 12:14 am
That is wonderful! Maybe someday I’ll see it myself, thank you for the tour!
October 4, 2023 at 11:35 am
Thank you Dennis, I would love to see you in India. You will find many divine places here. India is a hub of diversity and heritage.
February 7, 2024 at 8:09 pm
Wonderful!
February 7, 2024 at 11:17 pm
Thank you 😊
February 7, 2024 at 11:35 pm
My pleasure 🌹