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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