Varanasi - A Journey of Spirituality and Serenity

Benaras, Varanasi, Kashi, or Banaras - regardless of the name, this ancient city has the power to transform your perception of life and spirituality. 

Mark Twain once said, "Benaras is older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend, and looks twice as old as all of them put together."

 Varanasi, one of the world's oldest continually inhabited cities, is a melting pot of cultures, religions, and traditions, offering a glimpse into India's rich past and spiritual depth.

The Journey from Bengaluru to Varanasi

The 45-hour train journey from Bengaluru to Varanasi was a mix of excitement and anticipation. Varanasi, also known as the spiritual capital of India, is steeped in mythology and history, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking spiritual enlightenment and cultural immersion. The train journey itself is an experience, passing through diverse landscapes and offering a glimpse into the heart of India.

Exploring the Spiritual Heart of Varanasi

Upon arrival in Varanasi, I was greeted by a blanket of fog, adding to the mystical charm of the city. Varanasi, situated on the banks of the sacred river Ganges, is a city of ghats, each with its own significance and history. The Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Dharmshala, where I stayed, is a testimony to the city's hospitality and spiritual ethos, offering a serene retreat amidst the bustling city life.

The Spiritual Sojourn

Our first destination was the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, the oldest temple in Varanasi. The temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a testament to the city's religious fervor and architectural grandeur. The narrow lanes leading to the temple are filled with shops selling religious artifacts and souvenirs, adding to the spiritual ambiance of the place.

Culinary Delights and Cultural Exploration

Our culinary journey began with a visit to the Kashi Chaat Bhandar, where we indulged in the local delicacies. Varanasi is famous for its street food, especially the chaat and lassi. The flavors and aromas of the local cuisine are a testament to the city's rich culinary heritage and cultural diversity.

A Morning of Tranquility

The next morning, I woke up early to visit the Assi Ghat. The serene atmosphere at dawn allowed me to witness the 'Subah-e-Banaras' program, a spiritual experience like no other. The ghats of Varanasi come alive in the morning, with devotees performing their morning rituals and offering prayers to the rising sun, creating a surreal and spiritual ambiance.

Exploring Varanasi with a Local

Later, my friend Aashi, a native of Varanasi, joined me. She took me on a culinary journey, starting with Khasta Kachodi near Assi Ghat, followed by a visit to Chachi ki Kachori for Sabji Puri and Jalebi. Varanasi's street food is a reflection of its rich culinary heritage, with each dish telling a story of tradition and flavor.

Cultural Immersion and Historical Exploration

We explored the renowned BHU University and IIT Varanasi, soaking in the rich cultural and historical significance of these institutions. Varanasi is not just a city of temples and ghats, but also a hub of education and learning, with institutions like BHU and IIT Varanasi shaping the future of the country.

A City of Contrasts and Charms

Varanasi is a city of stark contrasts and captivating charms. As you wander through its labyrinthine lanes, you'll encounter vibrant graffiti art adorning the walls of the ghats, depicting scenes from Hindu mythology and everyday life. Cows roam freely in these narrow lanes, adding to the city's unique charm and spiritual ambiance. Despite the bustling crowds and chaotic traffic, there is a sense of serenity that pervades the city, reminding you of its deep-rooted spiritual heritage.

Must try of Varanasi

No visit to Varanasi is complete without sampling its culinary delights. From the tangy and spicy flavors of panipuri to the creamy goodness of malai-toast, the city offers a gastronomic experience like no other. One must-try delicacy is the tamatar chaat at Kashi Chaat Bhandar, a flavorful dish that perfectly encapsulates the essence of Varanasi's culinary heritage. Each bite is a burst of flavors, leaving you craving for more.

A Spiritual Conclusion

Before leaving Varanasi, I visited Sarnath, a sacred place known for its Buddhist heritage and meditation spots. Here, I met a German professor, and we engaged in meaningful conversations about spirituality and life. Varanasi, with its blend of ancient traditions and modern aspirations, is a city that leaves a lasting impression on all who visit, inviting them to explore its spiritual depths and cultural richness.

Manakarnika Ghat

A journey to Varanasi is not just a physical one but also a spiritual one, offering a glimpse into the eternal cycle of life and death, and the quest for meaning and enlightenment. The Manikarnika Ghat, where the sacred river Ganges flows ceaselessly, is a place where one can experience the profound cycle of life and death. It is here that we Hindus believe that the soul attains moksha, breaking free from the cycle of rebirth. Visiting this ghat is a humbling experience, reminding us of the impermanence of life and the eternal nature of the soul.