Navigate through narrow winding passages, offer greetings to Babas, and cross paths with the cows. Immerse yourself in spirituality as you witness the essence of the Hindu religion and local culture. Observe the vibrant activities along the Ganges.
The spiritual essence of the Varanasi originates from the Ganges, which gracefully flows through the city. People from the Hindu community worldwide flock here, seeking spiritual fulfilment and aiming to break free from the cycle of reincarnation after death. One Day Varanasi Tour is not just about sightseeing; it is about experiencing the city. So, here is a guide on how to make the most of a day in the spiritual capital of India.
1. Take A Boat Ride At Sunrise
To fully experience Varanasi, make sure not to miss the breathtaking sunrise over the Ganges. Begin your day by venturing to Assi Ghat around 5 am, when the city is still asleep and most establishments are closed, except for a few chai stalls. During pre-dawn hours, you can sense the spiritual aura as you stroll through its quiet streets.
Reach Assi Ghat by 5:30 am, where you can negotiate with boat operators for a fair price, usually not exceeding 100 Rs per person. Witness a morning ritual featuring local children chanting and monks performing with fire—an offering to the sacred Ganges, the life force of India. Board a boat and gaze at the heart-warming sunrise unfolding over the Ganges. Absorb the cultural tapestry and observe diverse rituals, from holy baths to people engaging in their daily routines.
2. Join A Free Yoga Class
Upon your return to Assi Ghat, you will likely find a small crowd gathered, all seated and facing a stage. To promote yoga in the community, there is a daily yoga class offered to everyone at zero cost. Feel free to observe or join the class, as you will be warmly welcomed. One captivating highlight is the laughing exercise—an experience that is sure to leave you in good spirits.
3. Explore the Bazaars
A stroll from Assi Ghat towards the Burning Ghat passes through the narrow streets teeming with captivating sights at every turn. These lively streets are adorned with shops offering a plethora of goods, an opportunity to engage with locals and hone your bargaining skills. As you traverse these alleys, encounter cows, dogs, and goats. Yogis and Babas in bright attires may be found around. The streets also feature a mix of street vendors and performers. Be sure to pause along the way to absorb the surroundings, as you are bound to encounter unique sights not covered in this article.
4. The Burning Ghat
The residents often serve as guides for tourists, asking for a small fee in return. It is advisable to take advantage of their guidance to understand the process rather than just observing the cremations.
5. The Golden Temple
The Golden Temple is a short walk from the Burning Ghat, but do not mistake it for the Sikh Temple in Amritsar – this Golden Temple in Varanasi is like the Hindu equivalent of Mecca. There are entrance gates all around, often with long queues of devotees on their pilgrimage. Well, there is a separate line for tourists near the Burning Ghat; just ask the guards for directions.
Upon entering the first gate, you might be asked if you follow the Hindu faith. If so, a simple "yes" will do. Inside the second gate, photography is prohibited, and you will need to take off your shoes. The temple is bustling with activity, but the golden spires above shine beautifully. Many Hindus bring food offerings, attracting monkeys to the temple. Watching them play around can be amusing while waiting in line.
6. Evening Ceremony
7. Evening Stroll Across Ghats
While the evening ceremony is beautiful and spiritual, it can get quite crowded, especially if you are watching from the main Ghat. To wind down your day, consider taking a peaceful stroll across the Ghats. You can observe various evening rituals and reflect on the magical experiences you have had in Varanasi.
Best Time to Visit
If you happen to be in Varanasi during the Diwali festival, you are in for a remarkable experience. The city becomes bustling during this festive season, but if you prefer a less crowded experience, consider visiting by Tourist Car Hire in Delhi in early to mid-September as the monsoon season concludes.
Conclusion
Every year, thousands of pilgrims are drawn to Varanasi by its ancient temples and shrines, while tourists are allured to its ghats (steps leading down to the river). The narrow, bustling streets offer an amazing display of life and colour. We have ensured that you do not miss any of the must-see attractions.
