Varanasi (also known as Banaras) is one of the holiest cities in the world. In the bordering state of Uttar Pradesh, it's located alongside the Ganga River - much further downstream than in Rishikesh. Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains come from near and far to this city for its religious importance and power of the river.
Megan, Heather and I decided to take the overnight train on the way there and opt to fly back one-way. The train ride was quite pleasant, since we dished out for the first-class sleeper cars. My four bed (two bunk) compartment was only me, so I should have been able to get some decent sleep. We arrived early in the morning and checked-in right away at the Taj Hotel.
While in Varanasi, we were to Sarnath, the location of one of Buddha's first teachings. It was expansive grounds near Deer Park, home to some of the oldest stupas in the region as well as the Sarnath Archeological Museum, where we smuggled in our cell phones and cameras despite a very persistent security guard.
In the afternoon we headed to the Ganga River to see the ghats along the rive, and met up with one of our co-worker's in-laws. They took us around to see some sari and scarf stores and again guided us back to the Ganga River for an evening ceremony. It was a full day - we covered a lot of ground and the next day flew back to Delhi. Megan and I decided to treat ourselves to sushi at Wasabi by Morimoto.
Posts
No comments:
Post a Comment