Varanasi is the city of ghats, street food and loads of temples. Considered as the spiritual capital of India, this city draws people from all over the world towards itself. The holy river of India, The Ganges flow from this city. this city is situated on the banks of river Ganges.
I traveled to Varanasi via car from Agra and it took me eight hours to reach here. In evening, I and my friend visited VNS Live Studio. It is a cafe which hosts regular live music bands in evening. The atmosphere and ambiance both are epic here. Food too is delicious. You can try different varieties of food here. This place remains open till midnight and is best place to spend a good musical time.
Next morning was planned for the scenic sunrise at the ghat. I visited Dashashvamedha ghat around quarter to seven. The empty roads, the closed shops and the sun hovering around the corner. It hardly took me twenty minutes to reach to the ghat. The peace, the serenity, the beautiful sunrise and the river flowing below; what else could I have asked for rather than such a picturesque view. Do try the lemon tea at the ghat.
Rest of the day was booked for silk shopping. Yes, Varanasi is famous for its Benarasi silk and it's a must have. Loads of variety and loads of shops to choose from. Different prices for different varieties. Between shopping also included the street food. The famous one here is known as litti chokha; which consists of a vegetable and baati served with onion and chili.
Another day, and I visited the famous temples located in this ethni-city.
1. Kashi Vishwanath Temple:
It is one of the most worshiped temple in India. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known as one of the twelve Jyotrilinga's. The vishwanath means ruler of the universe. Varanasi is also known as Kashi. Hence, the name Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
2. Sankat Mochan Mandir:
This temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman. Sankat Mochan is his other name which means he who takes away all the troubles. Hence the name Sankat Mochan.
3. Kaal Bhairav Mandir:
One of the oldest temple in Varanasi, dedicated to one of the forms of Lord Shiva. The word 'kaal' means both death and fate. This temple is very famous between Hindu pilgrims.
In the evening, I didn't miss the chance to see the epic Ganga aarti which happens daily, at Dashashawamedha Ghat. It is really a one time experience one can get. Above are the orange clouds and below flows the River Ganga surrounded by lighted lamps; as far as you can see them. This ritual is performed daily in evening by the priests. Big brass lamps, chanting of the mantras, priests wearing same attire; ah! such a magical evening it is. At this time the devotees can take the boat ride and enjoy the view of aarti from the boat.
This city literally gives you so much peace and spiritual happiness that you would want to visit it again and again. Apart from this, loads of memories to reminisce.