Varanasi is an ancient and holy city located on the Ganges River in the Uttar Pradesh region of India. It is possibly the holiest city in the Hindu religion and one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world. Both of these traits can be felt immediately as Varanasi is not a place where magic has to be sought out. You are immersed in it the moment you start to wander its narrow, maze-like alleys and explore the many fascinating Ghats along the river.

Like much of India, Varanasi is sensory overload and not for the faint of heart. As part of ancient funeral rituals, you will see bodies burned along the river. You will see colorfully dressed holy men who have made long pilgrimages to these sacred waters. Much of what you see you won’t understand, but as long as you take the time to learn, you will get an idea of Varanasi’s history and religious significance. A sunrise boat tour of the Ganges is the perfect way to begin your introduction to the so-called “The City of Light”

This is one of the most unique and interesting cities on earth and should be on almost any adventurer’s bucket list. You only need a few days here, and it can easily be added by sleeper train as part of a trip to the “Golden Triangle” (New Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra). India is an incredibly affordable country; of course, it also has delicious food! If you want a truly magical holy experience, we suggest you add Varanasi to your future adventures.