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One city that will truly put you in touch with India’s deep roots in religion and spirituality, it is undoubtedly the holy city of Varanasi.
A part of the Maharajas Express Indian Panorama Tour, Varanasi features high up on the list of must-sees in India and is visited by numerous tourists every year, from all around the world.
As we enjoy a hearty breakfast onboard, ensconced in the warm comforts and grandeur of the Maharajas Express, we make our way towards the enchanting city of Varanasi and reach the local train station by noon.
Saddhus performing morning rituals on the Ghats of Varanasi
VARANASI – SOULFUL CITY WITH MANY NAMES AND MANY FACETS
Varanasi, also called Banaras or Kashi is situated in Uttar Pradesh, on the banks of the sacred River Ganga or Ganges.
According to Hindu beliefs, taking a dip in the holy waters of the Ganges River cleanses a person of his/her sins and breaks the cycle of birth and death, thus providing spiritual enlightenment. A deeply respected and highly regarded Hindu and Jain pilgrimage site, Varanasi is known as the Oldest Living City in the world and the Religious Capital of India.
The city of Varanasi is perhaps best known for its 80+ Ghats or riverfront steps where devotees perform different types of religious ceremonies. Some famous Ghats in Varanasi include Manikarnika Ghat, Assi Ghat, Munshi Ghat, Kedar Ghat, and Ram Ghat, etc.
The Ganga Aarti, which is performed at dusk every day, is the most beautiful, memorable and humbling experience you will have in Varanasi.
Varanasi is also a centre for education and culture, trade, arts, and crafts as well as dance and music. Asia’s biggest and most reputed University, the Benaras Hindu University is located here.
EXPLORING VARANASI, COURTESY OF THE MAHARAJAS EXPRESS
After an appetizing lunch at a 5-Star Hotel in Varanasi, we will visit our first destination in Varanasi and move on to discover the many facets of Varanasi.
SARNATH – A renowned Buddhist spiritual site, Sarnath is located 10 km away from Varanasi. It is believed that almost 2500 years ago, after attaining enlightenment; it is here at the Deer Park in Sarnath that Lord Buddha gave his first sermon. As you take a walk at this ancient sacred destination, you will be filled with a deep sense of peace and tranquility.
The ruins and Stupa of Sarnath
SILK WEAVING CENTRE – In addition to its religious significance, the city of Varanasi is also well-known for its thriving silk weaving industry. We will take a tour of one such silk weaving centre that produces the beautiful and widely recognized Benarasi Silk.
Visually appealing and finest-quality Benarasi Silks, especially saris with rich brocade work is a treasured possession worn with pride, especially during special occasions like weddings, and handed down from generation to generation.
RIVER GANGA BOAT RIDE – As evening approaches, the Dasawamedha Ghat is filled with devotees and tourists who wait with bated breaths to witness one of Varanasi’s most spiritual and heartwarming rituals, the Ganga Aarti.
Towards the end of the arti, the priests immerse floating lamps into the river as an offer of prayer and respect. The pilgrims gathered here then follow suit and soon the river lights-up with the warmth of the twinkling lamps.
During our boat ride in the Ganga River, we will be able to see this magnificent ceremony which promises to be a memorable experience.
BRIJ RAMA PALACE – Located on the banks of the River Ganga, on the Darbanga Ghat and close to Varanasi’s main and most vibrant Ghat, the Dasawamedha is the beautiful hotel and famous landmark of Varanasi, the Brij Rama Palace.
The hotel’s main attractions include its towering sandstone walls, glorious temple architecture and the first elevator of India which was installed here in 1918.
After enjoying a wonderful Kathak Dance performance, we will sit down for a lovely vegetarian dinner compromising of all of Varanasi’s local delicacies.
Now it’s time to head back to our luxury train.
