Author: Seshdev Rath
Updated on: 25th Feb, 2025
VARANASI – BANARAS – KASHI
As the chill of December 2023 settled over Delhi, signaling the end of the year and the arrival of 2024, I felt an overwhelming urge to embark on a solo journey that would not only be a new adventure but also a path to spiritual discovery.
The desire for a fresh start in life led me to seek a destination that would offer both a profound travel experience and a deep spiritual awakening.
I began to explore places that are renowned for their spiritual significance, and one city kept resonating with me—VARANASI
With Varanasi firmly in my sights as the ideal destination for spiritual exploration, I swiftly moved forward with the planning process. Utilizing the strategies I detailed in my previous blog, “First Solo Trip – A Thought to Reality,” I efficiently organized my travel arrangements. Before any doubts could arise and to avoid any last-minute changes of heart, I promptly finalized all bookings for transportation and accommodation.
December 29, 2023, was set as the departure date for my journey to Varanasi, and I was filled with a mix of nervousness, excitement, and anticipation as the day approached.
DECEMBER 29, 2023
I had prepared everything the night before, so I woke up early, refreshed myself, and got ready for the trip. The next step was to head to the railway station to catch my train to Varanasi. I had booked a cab to take me there, and during the ride, my excitement grew as I imagined the adventures that awaited me.
Upon arriving at the station at 5:20 AM, I found that the Vande Bharat train was about to arrive. This was going to be my first experience on this prestigious train, and I couldn’t wait.
At around 5:40 AM, the train pulled into the platform, and I quickly boarded, securing my luggage and settling into my window seat. The train departed precisely at 6:00 AM, and I delighted in the crisp, foggy winter morning as we set off.
I reached Varanasi around 2:30 PM. As I stepped out of the station, I was greeted by a bustling crowd, as many people had gathered in the city to experience its unique charm with the New Year approaching.
Amidst the throngs, I noticed that every taxi and rickshaw driver was asking passengers if they wanted to go to Godowlia Chowk, but no further. Upon inquiring, I learned that Godowlia Chowk is the farthest point vehicles can reach, after which the historic, narrow streets of Varanasi unfold, inviting travelers to explore on foot and immerse themselves in the city’s timeless charm.
Without hesitation, I hopped onto a rickshaw to make my way to Godowlia Chowk.
As the rickshaw navigated through Varanasi’s roads, my excitement grew. I caught glimpses of the city’s vibrant life, with its bustling traffic and crowds, which only added to the fascination.
Seeing people from different parts of the world roaming around the city filled me with joy and anticipation for the days ahead. The diversity and enthusiasm of travelers only intensified my eagerness to explore every corner of Varanasi.
Eventually, we reached Godowlia Chowk, and the rickshaw rider said, “Yaha se chal k jana padega aapko” (You have to start walking from here onwards). This marked the beginning of my journey into the heart of Varanasi, where I would immerse myself in its spiritual aura and timeless charm.
With anticipation building, I set off on foot in search of my guest house near Dashashwamedh Ghat. Google Maps in hand, I began navigating the narrow, historic streets of the ancient city.
As I made my way through the narrow passages, the charm of Varanasi’s streets immediately captivated my senses. My initial concerns about getting lost in the maze-like passages quickly dissipated as I discovered the surprising interconnectedness of the roads, each one seamlessly guiding me towards my destination.
After a fascinating 15-minute walk through the city’s living history, I arrived at Paradise Inn Guest House Varanasi, my chosen guest house, eager to delve further into the spiritual and cultural essence of this timeless city.
Without wasting any time, I checked into the guest house, took a quick shower, and freshened up. I was now ready to explore Varanasi, one of the most ancient and beautiful cities in the world. The first place that came to mind was none other than Kashi Vishwanath Temple—one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and a site of immense spiritual significance.
Being in Kashi, there was no better way to begin my journey than by visiting this iconic temple and seeking blessings from Lord Shiva himself.
To Kashi Vishwanath
With a sense of excitement and devotion, I began my journey to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. As I walked through the narrow streets, I was surrounded by a sea of enthusiastic devotees, all of us bound by a shared purpose—reaching the temple. The short walk was exhilarating, and soon I found myself standing at the temple entrance.
Upon arriving at the entrance, I was informed that I needed to deposit my electronic items, such as my mobile phone and watch, along with my shoes, before entering the temple. I quickly followed the instructions, handing over my belongings at the designated storage area, and then proceeded to enter the temple, ready to immerse myself in its sacred atmosphere.
As soon as I entered the temple, I joined a line of devotees waiting to proceed. The line moved steadily forward, allowing me to absorb the unique and sacred atmosphere surrounding me.
The atmosphere was filled with the soft murmurs of prayers and the gentle resonance of temple instruments, creating a feeling of deep connection and serenity. Slowly but steadily, the line moved closer to the main sanctum, where I could catch glimpses of the sacred Jyotirlinga.
I still vividly remember that it was evening—the sun had almost set, and the temple lights were beginning to illuminate the surroundings. This added a magical touch to the experience as I approached the inner sanctum.
My excitement grew with every step, and before I knew it, I was standing before the Jyotirlinga. The moment was surreal; I felt an overwhelming sense of devotion as I gazed at this sacred symbol of Lord Shiva.
However, before I could pause any longer, the temple security gently urged everyone forward with a call of “Chalo aage chalo” (Keep moving), ensuring that all devotees could have their moment to witness the divine Jyotirlinga.