Varanasi & Ganges River, India

Varanasi's Old City was a highlight of our visit. This atmospheric area adjacent the banks of the Ganges River, has narrow crowded lanes lined with colorful shops and many Hindu temples. Varanasi has at least 84 ghats. Ghats are embankments of long stretches of stone steps leading down to the river where the cremations are performed and pilgrims bathe. The Dasaswamedh Ghat is the most colorful and liveliest ghat.

Do not miss taking a boat trip on the Ganges departing from the Dasaswamedh Ghat. Both the early morning and evening experiences are fascinating. Arriving early morning, you can witness the cremations and the sun rise over the Ganges where you can witness the colorful ritualistic routine (puja) of hundreds of bathers coming offering prayers and for what they believe are the healing properties (see photos).

About the cremations...Hindus believe that after death cremation and throwing your ashes into the Ganges at Varanasi brings salvation, releasing a person's soul. So, it is something very sacred to Hindus. Wrapped bodies are cleaned in the river and cremated in public by the Ganges River (see photo). About 700 pounds of wood is used for each cremation and it last for hours as the family mourns. Even today, some bodies are not cremated but are floated free to decompose in the waters such as holy men; pregnant women; people with leprosy/chicken pox, been bitten by snakes, who had committed suicide; the poor; and children under 5.

Some history... Varanasi is one the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. For several thousand years, it has been a cultural center of north India. Buddha spoke here. Due to destruction from ruling factions, few of the buildings in the Varanasi’s old city are more than a couple of hundred years old. Tourism is Varanasi's second most important industry with over 3 million domestic and about 200,000 foreign tourists visiting annually. The peak tourist season falls between October and March.

Staying healthy in India... Most visitors choose bottled water that can be purchased reasonable cheaply. When buying water from street vendors, make sure the lid is sealed and not refilled with tap water. Make sure you rinse your toothbrush with bottled water and keep your mouth closed when showering. It is also wise to be careful what you eat. Outside of major tourist hotels and restaurants, particularly risky things to stay away from are raw leafy vegetables and egg-based dressings like mayonnaise, and minced meat. To be safe, you should stick to boiled, baked, fried, or peeled goods.

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