Wednesday, June 26, 2024

Day 3 in Banaras: From Spicy Mornings to Sacred Sites

Today we checked out of our beautiful hotel.

Day three in Varanasi started, as all good days should, with a hearty breakfast at Ram Bhandar. There’s something undeniably comforting about the crisp kachori and the syrupy sweetness of jalebi. To wash it all down, we embarked on a chai hunt. 

Our quest led us to Lakshmi Chai Wala, a place that had been recommended to us. While the chai wasn’t exactly mind-blowing, the sandwiches were a quirky surprise. 

Who knew a Cesarean sandwich existed? The world is full of wonders, I guess.


Our guide had arranged a cab for us to tour on this day as it involved a trip to Sarnath, an hour away from Varanasi. 

On our way we stopped at Tulsi Ghat, a ghat with a serene ambiance, far removed from the bustling crowds of Dashashwamedh. It's named after Tulsi Das, the famous poet who wrote the Ramcharitmanas. The ghat has a peaceful vibe, perfect for a quiet moment of reflection.

Our next stop was the Banaras Hindu University. The campus was a sprawling green oasis in the heart of the city. It felt like stepping into another world. The architecture was impressive, and the overall atmosphere was calm and academic.



Sarnath: A Peaceful Escape from the Varanasi Hustle

The highlight of the day was undoubtedly Sarnath. The moment we stepped into the archaeological site, it felt like we were transported to another era. The Dhamekh Stupa, with its imposing presence, is a sight to behold. I couldn't help but imagine the thousands of people who must have gathered here centuries ago to listen to Buddha's teachings.




The Sarnath Museum was a treasure trove of artifacts. From intricate sculptures to ancient coins, it offered a fascinating glimpse into the past. The highlight for us was the Ashoka Pillar, a majestic remnant of the Mauryan Empire.

To end our day on a delicious note, we indulged in a hearty lunch at Baati Chokha. The smoky flavor of the baati and the spicy goodness of the chokha were the perfect way to cap off our Sarnath adventure. Highly recommend it!




With this, our Varanasi adventure came to an end. It was a whirlwind of experiences – from the chaotic energy of the ghats to the spiritual tranquility of the temples. Varanasi, you've left an indelible mark on my heart. Until next time!



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