Entertainment, Sarees
Why Banaras Stole My Heart in 2023 – A Budget-Friendly Family Expedition!
In the delicate balance between Saree blogging and family trips, the year 2023 unfolded with a special expedition to Varanasi. Join this mother’s travelogue as we delve into the heart of the city, blending budget-friendly adventures, gastronomic delights, and spiritual encounters.
Day 1: The Arrival and Assi Ghat
Our journey began on December 26th from Cuttack, ensuring a budget-friendly travel experience via Indian Railways. The seamless train journey brought us to Varanasi on the 27th, with a timely arrival around 8 am. The day kicked off with a check-in at our chosen hotel, a quick refresh, and the initiation of our exploration of Varanasi.
Among the culinary delights, the kachori chat, jalebis, chai, lassi, samosas, and malaio adorned our itinerary. The day’s crescendo was Assi Ghat, named after the river where Goddess Durga purportedly tossed her sword after vanquishing demons.
Day 2: Spiritual Sojourn – Kashi Vishwanath and Manikarnika Ghat
The second day commenced at 4 am with a visit to the grand Kashi Vishwanath temple. This spiritual journey unfolded with Darshan, conversations, and more culinary experiences. The Manikarnika Ghat, resonating with the celebration of death and salvation, added depth to our exploration. The morning concluded with the comforting embrace of yet another customary chai.
Day 3: Dashashwamedh Ghat and Ganga Arti
Our third day was a spectacle of spirituality and cultural richness. The morning rituals at the Kashi Vishwanath temple were followed by visits to Bharat Mata temple, Kaal Bhairav Mandir, Durga Kund Mandir, Sankat Mochan Hanuman Mandir, Tulsi Manas Mandir, and the BHU campus. In the evening, we immersed ourselves in the soul-stirring Ganga Arti at Dashashwamedh Ghat.
A boat ride on the Ganges, donned in my prized Bhujodi Saree from Gujarat, added a touch of grace to the enchanting Ganga Arti experience.
Exploring the City and Unexpected Extension
Our exploration continued with an evening visit to Namo Ghat, capturing the essence of Banaras in our phone’s lens. Little did we know that our return journey, initially scheduled for the 29th of December, would take an unexpected turn. Ticket cancellations led to an additional day in Varanasi, a blessing in disguise.
Return Journey and Unplanned Adventures
To ensure a timely return, we explored options, and my tiny brain led us to book a cab via Google search. The journey back to Cuttack commenced on the 30th of December at 9 am, marking a bittersweet farewell to the beloved city. The 15-hour, almost 1000 km drive concluded in the early hours of the 31st, bringing us back to our home sweet home.
Conclusion:
Varanasi, with its spiritual aura and cultural richness, etched unforgettable memories. For those planning a visit, ensure confirmed tickets and brace yourself for a soulful journey. Check out our blog for detailed posts and pictures, offering a glimpse into the charm of this ancient city.
Upcoming Delights:
Stay tuned for updates on Banarasi Sarees and dress materials acquired during the trip. As an upcoming family event approaches in February, we’ll share the stitched and ready-to-wear ensembles, blending the cultural richness of Banaras with our family traditions.
Note: Your support in exploring and sharing our journey is sincerely appreciated. Visit our blog for a more in-depth look at our Banaras expedition.
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