Ganges

Sailing on the Ganges at dawn is a mystical experience. As the sun casts an orange glow and the mists rise, the ghats teem with pilgrims performing religious rituals. As you watch people bathe, chant, meditate and wash clothes, you truly realise the importance of these sacred waters. The liveliest ghats include Manikarnika, Dasaswamedh, Scindia and Assi.

Throughout the streets of Varanasi, you’ll find lively markets and bazaars selling, well, just about everything, from silk and muslin to perfumes, art and food. There are many to choose from, but Thatheri Bazar is known for metalwork, Vishwanath Lane is great for textiles, and Godowlia Market offers a diverse mix of goods and souvenirs.

Varanasi is one of the most religious cities in India, so visiting the temples should be high on your list of things to do. The most famous is Kashi Vishwanath, which was built in the mid-18^th century and sits inside two golden domes. Other impressive temples include Annapurna, Durga, Ankatha and Bharat Mata.

The Ganges is sacred to Hindus. The holy waters attract pilgrims from across the globe who come to bathe here, a process that’s said to purify souls and wash away sins. People also come to the Ganges to immerse their relative’s ashes in the water, which helps to attain moksha, the liberation of the soul and end of the reincarnation cycle.

The Arti is a ceremony of light, which is best witnessed from the Dasaswamedh Ghat. Hindu priests light large brass lamps, as dancing and religious chanting take place. It’s believed the lamps absorb the blessing of the goddess Maa Ganga (Mother Ganges). This is one of the most spectacular and soul-stirring ceremonies you’ll witness along the Ganges at Varanasi.

Varanasi is a dizzying maze of narrow lanes filled with traditional restaurants, street-food stalls and tea stalls. Try Varanasi lassi, a sweet drink made with saffron, dried rose petals and pistachios. It’s a favourite with locals. For something spicier, try a choti kachori, a snack made with lentils and masala with a crispy outer layer.