journey

Recently, I had the opportunity to visit Varanasi and Bandhavgarh along with a group of Travel Agents from overseas. This was my first visit to both destinations, and they had been on my bucket list for quite some time. I am delighted to say that the experience exceeded all expectations and was truly worth the wait.

We arrived in Varanasi around lunchtime on the first day, where our hotel was the Taj Ganges, a beautiful 5-star hotel, not too far away from the old city and the ghats. After a couple of hours of rest at the hotel, we headed out for a sunset boat ride on the River Ganges, followed by the famous Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat. The boat ride offered a fascinating glimpse into life along the ghats. On one side, we witnessed devotees taking holy dips in the Ganges, performing rituals, and conducting pooja ceremonies. On the other, we observed funeral pyres burning at the cremation ghats. At one point, five or six cremations were taking place simultaneously. Our guide explained that Varanasi is unique in that cremations are performed around the clock, unlike most Hindu traditions where cremations are generally not conducted after sunset.

Following the boat ride, we disembarked at Dashashwamedh Ghat to witness the evening Ganga Aarti. It was truly an out-of-this-world experience. The beautifully choreographed ceremony, accompanied by chants, music, and synchronized rituals, lasted nearly three hours. The ghats were packed with visitors, and our guide mentioned that most of the crowd consisted of tourists rather than local residents. Nevertheless, it is an experience that everyone should witness at least once in their lifetime.

The following morning, we embarked on a dawn boat ride at around 4:30 am. This experience was completely different from the previous evening. The river was calm and peaceful, while devotees quietly performed their morning prayers and rituals. The serenity of the Ganges at sunrise was breathtaking. Adding to the magical atmosphere were musicians on board, whose melodious tunes perfectly complemented the tranquil surroundings.

After the boat ride, we disembarked at Manikarnika Ghat and began a walking tour through the old city. The narrow lanes were bustling with activity and offered a fascinating insight into the daily life of Varanasi. During the walk, we saw the Kashi Vishwanath Temple (one of the holiest shrines for Hindu devotees) from the outside. Long queues of devotees waited patiently for their turn to enter and offer prayers. As some members of our group were non-Hindus, we did not enter the temple and instead admired its significance from outside before returning to the hotel for breakfast.

We also visited Sarnath, which is an important Buddhist pilgrimage site where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. Visiting the museum and learning about the life and teachings of Buddha was a wonderful experience. Sarnath is undoubtedly a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to Varanasi.

The next morning, we departed for Bandhavgarh. The journey took approximately seven hours, thanks to the improved road conditions. Upon arrival, we checked into the Oberoi Vindhyavilas, which I believe is one of the finest and most luxurious properties in the region. The service, food, ambience, and overall hospitality were exceptional and among the best I have experienced anywhere.

The following day, we enjoyed two jungle safaris. Our morning safari in the Magadhi Zone did not bring us any tiger sightings, which was slightly disappointing. However, the afternoon safari in the Tala Zone more than made up for it. We were fortunate enough to spot four tigers, making the visit truly memorable and fulfilling the main purpose of our trip to Bandhavgarh.

The trip ended with the drive to Jabalpur Airport for the flight back to Delhi. As the trip came to an end, I reflected on the remarkable contrast between the spiritual energy of Varanasi and the wilderness of Bandhavgarh. Together, they offered a unique combination of culture, history, spirituality, and wildlife.

This journey was everything I had hoped for and more. If you are looking for an experience that combines India's rich spiritual heritage with its incredible natural beauty, I would highly recommend including both Varanasi and Bandhavgarh in your travel plans.

By Ashu Gupta, June 2026

Nepal, a Himalayan kingdom steeped in history and spirituality, is a perfect destination for solo travelers seeking an unforgettable adventure. Unlike bustling family vacations, a solo trip to Nepal allows you to connect with yourself and discover the hidden gems of this enchanting country.

Escape the Ordinary: Serendipitous Discoveries in Kathmandu

The vibrant capital city of Kathmandu is a melting pot of cultures, offering a myriad of unexpected experiences. Lose yourself in the anonymous hubbub of a street café, observing the locals and soaking up the city's atmosphere. While the city is renowned for its adventure sports and cultural offerings, there's much more to discover beyond the well-trodden tourist paths.

Hidden Gems and Unexpected Encounters

Venture off the beaten path and explore the atmospheric tumbledown buildings near Bagmati at Bhaisighat, where you might stumble upon vibrant murals from a street art project dating back to 2014. In the charming town of Patan, wander through the residential area of Kupondole and Pulchowk, where you might discover hidden gems like an unforgettable mural by an unknown artist.

A Blend of History and Culture

Immerse yourself in the rich history of Nepal by visiting the Baber Mahal Revisited complex, a serene oasis away from the bustling Thamel. Explore the European Neoclassical and Baroque architecture of the Rana palaces, dating back to the 1800s. Discover the fascinating stories of historical figures like Rani Jindan Kaur, a queen who sought refuge in Nepal during British rule, and Begum Hazrat Mahal, a warrior queen who escaped Lucknow during the Mutiny of 1857.

A Journey of Self-Discovery and Adventure

A solo trip to Nepal offers a unique opportunity for self-discovery and spiritual growth. The country's serene landscapes, ancient temples, and friendly locals create a peaceful and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're seeking adventure, cultural immersion, or simply a chance to relax and rejuvenate, Nepal has something to offer everyone.

Embark on an Unforgettable Adventure in Nepal

Nepal offers a plethora of thrilling outdoor activities for adventure seekers. Challenge yourself with a challenging hike to Everest Base Camp, or explore the breathtaking Annapurna Circuit. For those seeking adrenaline-pumping experiences, white-water rafting down the Bhote Kosi River is a must-try. Discover the stunning beauty of the Langtang National Park on a trek to the Langtang Valley. And for a more relaxed experience, unwind in the serene lakeside town of Pokhara, indulging in paragliding or boating.

Beyond the adventure, Nepal offers a unique opportunity to connect with locals, learn about their culture and traditions, and share stories and experiences. Embrace the unexpected, let go of expectations, and allow yourself to be surprised by the serendipitous moments that make your journey truly special.