BY MOULI BISWAS
The next day of our trip started with Ramnagar fort, located on the eastern bank of the Ganges River, opposite Varanasi’s famous ghats. The fort was built in 1750 by Maharaja Balwant Singh and still serves as the residence of the royal family of Kashi Naresh dynasty. Inside, the Durbar Hall and reception rooms spoke of royal gatherings, while the museum displayed fascinating artifacts like American antique cars, jewel-encrusted sedan chairs, a superb weaponry section, royal costumes, and religious manuscripts. One particularly striking story in this fort is the palanquin made for a Royal Bengal tiger hunted by Kashi Naresh himself, which stands out as a memorable and unusual artifact
After exploring the majestic Ramnagar Fort, I set out on the next leg of my trip to Sarnath, a place steeped in spiritual and historical significance of King Ashoka of Mauryan Dynasty. The journey from Ramnagar to Sarnath is about 15-20 kilometers and can be comfortably covered by bus or car. We were a group of 30 people, so travelled by a tourist bus indeed. The roads were smooth, passing through lush green fields and small villages, giving me a glimpse of rural life in Uttar Pradesh. As I approached Sarnath, a sense of calm and spirituality washed over me. I felt a deep connection to the place, knowing that it was here that Gautama Buddha delivered his first sermon after enlightenment. Seeing the intricately carved Lion Capital, now the national emblem of India, spoke about the power of Emperor Ashoka and his commitment in spreading Buddhism. I explored ruins of ancient monasteries, stupas, and the Dhamek Stupa, which marks the spot of Buddha’s first sermon. After a tiresome day, when we went to get up in the bus, our tour manager stopped us and asked to visit the nearby factories of Benarasi sarees. What made me stunning was the meticulous process of handloom weaving. The skilled artisans transformed fine silk threads into stunning Banarasi sarees adorned with detailed Zari (gold and silver thread) work.
The next day was a long day to be. Visiting the Vindhyavasini Temple in Mirzapur, 70 km from Varanasi, was a deeply spiritual and uplifting experience, surrounded by the Vindhya hills. The temple’s Nagara-style architecture where the goddess Vindhyavasini, an incarnation of Durga, stands adorned with gold ornaments and divine weapons. Next, we travelled to Chunar fort, deeply located in the heart of Mirzapur and Allahabad. The fort’s massive walls and historic gates spoke of countless battles and rulers who shaped the region’s history. Exploring the fort’s ancient structures, I was struck by the blend of military architecture and the stories of valor and resilience embedded in its stones. Finally, arriving in Allahabad (now Prayagraj), 122 km from Varanasi. The site of the Triveni Sangam—the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati rivers—this city is a major pilgrimage hub. Visiting the Sangam, I witnessed devotees performing rituals and taking holy dips, a moving sight symbolizing purification and renewal. We hired a boat and went to the middle of the Sangam, where we offered flowers, lit diyas, and chanted prayers. Standing amidst the swirling waters, surrounded by the powerful meeting of these holy rivers, was both humbling and exhilarating. Exploring Varanasi is not just about sightseeing but about Ghats, lassi, chaat, and whatnot !! Connecting with the soul of these places—their legends, rituals, and people made me inspired to come back again.
Traveling routes in Varanasi
By Air: Varanasi’s Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport is about 26 km from the city center. It connects well with major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Lucknow, and others, which takes about 1.5-3 hours.
By Train: Varanasi Junction and Kashi railway stations are the main railheads. It takes about 8-10 hours when coming from the major cities.
By Road: Varanasi is well connected by national highways like NH 2 and NH 28. Both government and private buses, including luxury AC coaches, operate frequently.
Where To Stay In Varanasi
The best place to stay in Varanasi is the old city – situated along the western bank of the Ganges, from where it extends back to a labyrinth of alleys called galis. You can rent a room between 500-1000 Rupees, pretty much on any of the 80+ ghats in Varanasi. When it comes to luxury stays in Varanasi, several hotels stand out for their heritage such as Taj Nadesar Palace, Tag Ganges, Om Vilas Benares, and BrijRama Palace.
Places to visit in Varanasi
Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Dashashwamedh Ghat, Assi Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, Panchganga Ghat, Ramnagar Fort, Sarnath, Birla museum, Tulsi Manas Mandir, Bharat Mata Mandir, Durga Mandir, Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, Alamgir Mosque, Nepali Temple, Scindia Ghat, Tulsi Ghat, Man Mahal Observatory,Chaukhandi Stupa, Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Sarnath Museum, Godowlia Market, Chunar fort, Vindhyavasini temple, Allahabad Prayagraj
Food options to try in Varanasi
1. Kachori 2. Chena dahi vada 3. Baati Chokha 4. Tamatar Chaat 5. Dahi Chutney Golgappe 6. Laaiya Channa 7. Choora Matar 8. Malaiyyo 9. Rabri Jalebi 10. Paan (Banarasi Paan) 11. Thandai 12. Nan Khatai 13. Palak Patta Chaat 14. Golgappe
