Hey there, fellow explorers!
Ankit, your trusty travel buddy, in May, our family of five embarked on a spiritual journey from Gorakhpur to Banaras. We were eager to experience the city’s divine energy and explore its renowned religious sites.
With a modest budget of 10,000 INR for the entire trip, we planned to visit the sacred Baba Vishwanath Temple, the revered Kaal Bhairav Temple, and the serene Assi Ghat, all within two days.
Our journey was filled with moments of peace, spirituality, and the simple joys of discovering the local culture.
Guide to Reaching Banaras from Gorakhpur and Accommodations:
Deciding to travel by car allowed us the flexibility to explore Banaras at our own pace. We left Gorakhpur early in the morning to make the most of our time in the holy city. The drive was smooth, and the anticipation of visiting these spiritual landmarks kept us excited throughout the journey.
Upon reaching Banaras, we checked into a dharamshala. It provided us with basic but comfortable accommodations at a reasonable price, perfectly suited for our pilgrimage.
Day-by-day itinerary for Banaras
Day 1: Arrival and Exploration
- Morning: Baba Vishwanath Temple
Our first stop was the Baba Vishwanath Temple. The atmosphere was spiritual and serene, with the temple’s ancient architecture captivating us all. We spent a good amount of time there, soaking in the divinity of the place.
- Evening: Assi Ghat
After a spiritually enriching visit to the Baba Vishwanath Temple, we made our way to Assi Ghat to unwind and witness the famous evening aarti. The Ghat was alive with energy as devotees gathered to watch the mesmerising ritual of priests performing the aarti with oil lamps, set against the backdrop of the tranquil Ganges River. The chants and the rhythmic sound of the bells created an ambience that was both uplifting and peaceful. Also, It was a moment that filled our hearts with devotion and connected us deeply with the spirit of Banaras.
Day 2: Further Spiritual Exploration
- Morning: Kaal Bhairav Temple
The next morning, we visited the Kaal Bhairav Temple, known for its powerful spiritual significance. Unlike the more crowded Baba Vishwanath Temple, Kaal Bhairav offered a quieter, more intimate experience. We had the opportunity to explore the temple’s unique features. Learn about its historical and spiritual importance from the local priests.
- Afternoon: Return to Assi Ghat
After our visit to Kaal Bhairav, we returned to Assi Ghat to soak in the Ghat’s tranquil atmosphere once more. The gentle flow of the Ganges, the sight of boats drifting by, and the occasional chant from nearby temples provided a calming backdrop for our reflections. We spent some time simply sitting by the river, enjoying the peace that Banaras offers to all who visit.
- Evening: Departure for Gorakhpur
As the sun began to set, we started our journey back to Gorakhpur. The drive was just as pleasant as our arrival, filled with discussions about the spiritual experiences we had and the memories we created. Also, we reached home feeling spiritually rejuvenated, with Banaras having left a lasting impression on our hearts.
A culinary adventure awaits in Banaras
Throughout our stay in Banaras, we indulged in the simplicity and flavours of local dhaba food and street delicacies. We relished the taste of Banaras’ famous chaat, kachori sabzi, and freshly made jalebis. Each meal was a delight, offering a blend of flavours that were both comforting and new. The dhaba food was hearty and satisfying, providing us with the energy needed for our explorations.
Essential Tips for Your Banaras Adventure
- Begin your day early to avoid crowds at popular temples and enjoy the serenity of the ghats in the morning.
- Also, staying in a Dharamshala is a cost-effective option that provides a true pilgrimage experience.
- Moreover, carry water bottles, especially during summer visits, as the temperatures can rise significantly.
- Don’t miss out on the local street food, which is both delicious and a key part of the Banaras experience.
- Additionally, be mindful of the customs and practices at religious sites, and dress modestly.
Also, the trip was short but fulfilling, fitting well within our budget and leaving us with a desire to return and explore more of Banaras in the future.So, discover captivating travel stories on https://sowl.in/stories and get inspired for your next adventure!
