Visit to Varanasi – April 2018

Kashi, known as the oldest living city, is the spiritual capital of India and one of the seven holy cities (Sapta Puris) among Hindus. Therefore, there are a lot of sentiments attached to the city and rightfully so, as we discovered while journeying this sacred abode.

We began our tour, not so surprisingly, by visiting the divine Kashi Vishwanath Temple and immersing ourselves in the crowded yet, magical experience that it was. Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most famous and revered Hindu temples, both around the world and especially within India. It is dedicated to the Hindu deity Lord Shiva is set along the banks of the holy Ganga. This picturesque temple is bustling with culture and colors all through the year. It is also consists of one amongst the twelve Jyotirlingas, making it one of the most sacred Shiva temples in the world.

Another important site to visit in Varanasi is Kaal Bhairav Mandir, one of the oldest Shiva temples in India and quite possibly the world. Situated in Bharonath, Visheshwarganj, this temple has great historical and cultural importance in Hinduism, especially amongst the locals. According to a popular tale, it is known that whoever visits Varanasi has to first take blessings from this God, at this temple before setting a foot into the city

Another interesting landmark – one that many miss out on because of their hurried religious trips, but that I believe deserves more mention and visits – is BHU university campus. The university grounds offer a  great experience,with lush greenery all around and a private, peacefully space outside the city’s hustle-bustle – this campus is a place for retreat and peace. Apart from its beauty, the campus also boasts of a museum that is exceptionally well made and maintained. It has an extraordinary collection of historical artifacts and offers great insights into the cultural backdrop of Varanasi.

Lastly, we visited Varanasi during the summer months and so, we were met with quite an adventure during our temple visits and while attending the Aarti (prayer meet) by the ganges in the evening. Just like at any other time of the year and at any other pilgrim city, this holy home was over-crowded and had visitors visiting from around the globe.

My advice to anyone planning a trip would be to avoid the summers and most definitely avoid the boat-rides by the Ganges. If you’re visiting with children, keep them close and masked if possible.  While the city prides itself on being the cultural capital, as far as real world problems like traffic and pollution go,  even the holiest city in India hasn’t been able to escape the ill-effects of them, so start earlier than usual to wherever you plan to visit and always keep yourself protected.