Hello, religious travel lovers! Anshika is on this side!!!

In July, I embarked on a spiritual and cultural trip to the sacred city of Varanasi with my family. Varanasi, also known as Kashi and Banaras, stands as one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world. Visiting Varanasi was profoundly enriching. Also, walking along the ghats of the Ganges River, I witnessed vibrant daily rituals and ceremonies that define this ancient city. 

How to reach Varanasi

We planned to travel in our car and arrived in Varanasi, eager to explore its revered temples, ghats, and vibrant streets.

Accommodation in Varanasi:

We checked into a cosy hotel near Assi Ghat, where we had booked two rooms at 3,000 INR per day each. Also, the location was perfect, providing easy access to the ghats and the heart of the city’s activities.

Day 1: Arrival and First Glimpse of Varanasi

After checking in and getting refreshed, our first stop was the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most famous and revered Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Also, walking through the narrow, bustling lanes of the old city to reach the temple was an experience in and of itself. The temple’s golden spire and the spiritual energy of the place left us stunned. Moreover, we offered our prayers, seeking positivity, compassion, and healing from Mahadev.

During my visit to Kashi, I surrendered to Mahadev, asking for positivity, compassion, and healing, and requested the removal of anything causing pain or hindering my growth. Also, Mahadev acted sooner than expected, removing what wasn’t meant for me before I could let go. Moreover, each corner of Varanasi told a story, making my visit a journey through time.

In the evening, we made our way to Assi Ghat, a popular and lively ghat frequented by locals and tourists alike. Likewise, the atmosphere here was vibrant, with people performing rituals, priests offering prayers and the serene sight of the Ganges flowing by. As the sun set, we witnessed the mesmerising Ganga Aarti, a beautiful ritual involving synchronised chants and the lighting of oil lamps.

Day 2: Ghats and Boating in Varanasi

The beauty of Varanasi’s ghats is that you don’t need to search for a boat ride; the boatmen come to you. We were approached by a friendly boatman, who offered us a ride for 200 INR per person. Also, this included a 45-minute stay on the other side of the Ganges. Moreover, the boat ride was a serene and enchanting experience, with the gentle rocking of the boat and the sight of birds flying over the water.

Likewise, after our boat ride, we spent the rest of the day exploring the various ghats along the Ganges. Moreover, each ghat has its own unique charm and history, and walking along them felt like a journey through time. Likewise, from the ancient rituals performed at Dashashwamedh Ghat to the peace of Manikarnika Ghat. Their cremation ceremonies take place, every moment was filled with profound experiences.

Day 3: Markets of Varanasi and Departure

On our final day, we wandered through the bustling markets of Varanasi. Also, the narrow lanes were lined with shops selling everything from religious artefacts and silk sarees to delicious street food.

Must know: The aroma of local delicacies tempted us to taste a bit of everything. Our food expenses, including hotel and street food, amounted to around 8,000–9,000 INR for all three days.

No trip to Varanasi is complete without picking up some souvenirs. Moreover, we bought beautiful handcrafted items, religious artefacts, and traditional Varanasi silk, ensuring we had mementoes to remember our journey by.

Must know: So, our party included four adults and one child, and we set off on this three-day adventure with a budget of 40,000 INR.

Travel tips for Varanasi with family:

• The best time to visit Varanasi is during the monsoon season. Also, the cooler weather is more comfortable for exploring the city.
• Also, be mindful of the weather, as the summer heat can be intense and may lead to health issues, as I experienced.
• Moreover, don’t miss the opportunity for a boat ride on the Ganges. It’s a peaceful and scenic way to experience the Ghats.
• Likewise, make sure to buy some local souvenirs, especially the traditional Varanasi silk, which is a beautiful keepsake.

Varanasi is not just a city; it’s an experience that touches your soul and stays with you long after you’ve left. Also, each corner of this ancient city tells a story, making every visit a journey through time and spirituality.

So, fantastical Adventures Await and embark on thrilling journeys through captivating travel tales on https://sowl.in/stories. Let your daydreams come to life!!!