Continuing with the chronicle of our journey through India (you can read the first part at this link ), We now enter the second stage: a journey through the two iconic destinations of India: Varanasi (Benares) and Lucknow.
After an enriching week in Bodh Gaya, Bihar, where spirituality is breathed in every corner, we embarked on a journey that promised to be a dream. From an initial group of 22, five of us remained. The adventure began at 1:00 a.m. at Gaya station, where the contrast between Tibetan tranquility and Indian bustle hit us with all its intensity. Uncertain of how to find our train, we resorted to a police booth. There, help was not long in coming: they assisted us and accompanied us until our train appeared.
We had booked a first class ticket for this four-hour journey to Varanasi, also known as Benares. Our goal in Varanasi was to walk around the city in one morning, then, shortly before noon, leave for Lucknow on a road trip that promised a nice nap.
What is it like on a train in India going first class? The train ride was actually nice, except for the air conditioning, which was turned up to full. The rest of the experience was very positive. The beds seemed clean, they respected our sleep time and they let us know when we were arriving at our destination.
Varanasi
Also known as Benares, Varanasi is a city of deep spiritual significance in India. Situated on the banks of the Ganges River in the state of Uttar Pradesh, it is considered the holiest of the seven sacred cities in Hinduism and Jainism . With a history spanning thousands of years, Varanasi is a living testament to tradition and faith. It is here that pilgrims come to bathe in the holy waters of the Ganges, seeking purification and liberation. The city is also famous for its vibrant culture, muslin and silk weaving, and its importance in the development of Buddhism, as it was in the vicinity that Buddha gave his first sermon at Sarnath . Varanasi is not only a religious destination but also a centre of learning and a melting pot of diverse spiritual and artistic practices.
Don't be afraid of seeing possible lifeless bodies on the streets. There is an ancient tradition of open-air cremation in Varanasi. The ghats (steps along the Ganges River) are places where funeral rituals and cremations are performed. Bodies are brought there, and bonfires burn day and night. It is an unusual sight for visitors, but it is an integral part of culture and spirituality in Varanasi.
If you decide to explore the city, keep the following in mind:
- Avoid looking directly at bonfires. It is respectful to keep a certain distance and not to observe with morbid curiosity. Also, do not take photos when you are close.
- Don't walk around the streets at dawn. During the early hours of the day, it is common to see funeral processions and inert bodies being taken to the river for cremation.
- Respect local customs. Cremation is a sacred ritual, and the people of Varanasi are well aware of its significance. Be respectful and understanding.
We "saw" this city in one short morning, as we had no accommodation and our idea was to leave for Lucknow at midday. The obligatory activity in Varanasi is a boat ride along the Ganges River . From the river you have another, much more spectacular view of the city, which is already quite beautiful in itself.
Lucknow
In Lucknow things started to go wrong, as soon as we arrived, they told us that we could not access the hotel. The hotel, apparently, was only for locals, they did not allow foreigners in and they did not even mention it on the website! The treatment was not bad either, as they stopped speaking English when we asked them for explanations. I'll leave you with the hotel so you don't go: FabHotel Geetraj .
We quickly had to book a room at another hotel, the Golden Tulip Lucknow . That day, and after having barely slept in 24 hours, we decided to stay at the hotel, have dinner and rest peacefully. At this hotel we were treated as we deserved, it was clean and the food was not bad at all, highly recommended.
The next day we had an early flight, so we had breakfast at the hotel, reorganized our bags and headed to the airport. The truth is that it is an interesting city, here are some places to see:
- Manyawar Kanshiram Ji Smarak Sthal - Google Maps Link
- Imambara Bara - Google Maps Link
- Chota Imambara - Google Maps Link
- Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Memorial Park – Google Maps Link
These are some of the most beautiful places in Lucknow. If you want to continue reading about the last part of the trip touring the Golden Triangle, click on this link .
To discover more images of India, click on this link .