INDIA VARANASI

INDIA VARANASI

The ghats (river banks) of the Ganga River at Varanasi are one of the holiest places in India, the heart of the Hindu universe. The river Ganga is central to the Hindu belief, a crossing place between the physical and spiritual worlds. Viewed as a river of salvation, an everlasting symbol of hope to past, present and future generations, people arrive here for all the important life events from birth to death. Colorful, charismatic and soulful, nothing describes the life of the ghats better. Whether you walk along the ghats or take a morning boat ride on the Ganges, or participate in a religious ceremony , your soul will not be untouched . Visit the bazaar and admire the hand woven Varanasi cloth, taste local cuisine and take time to visit nearby areas.

RAMBLING THROUGH MEDIEVAL INDIA IN FORTS, VARANASI

Just a mere 40 kms from Varanasi is the medieval fort of Chunar. Standing overlooking the Ganga Rivers, the fort has been a witness to the struggle for power between the Afghans and the Mughals till the latter took control in 1537. Beautiful stone sculptures adorn this magnificent monument. Just a short drive from here, get a peek into medieval life at the Ramnagar Fort, the palace of the former Maharaja of Varanasi. Elaborate exhibits of palanquins, costumes, swords, sabers etc are a glimpse into the life of the erstwhile rulers of the land.

MUSICAL GHARANA, VARANASI

The Maharajas of Kashi (old name of Varanasi) gave patronage to music which continued under the Mughlas resulting in a rich and vibrant history of musical accomplishments. The master musicians of yore and world renowned artists of today from the Banaras gharana (lineage) produced some of the most famous musical traditions in India. Delve into this tradition at the Music Gharana house where you meet with the resident artists and savour a live performance.

GLIMPSE OF VILLAGE LIFE, VARANASI

The town of Varanasi is surrounded by small villages, where traditions cm village continue to live on and shape the life of today. Enjoy the relaxed pace of life and spiritual world view of these village. At Rameshwara village on the bank of river Varuna, visit the Shiva Temple and a unique orphanage found in India, a Gaushala for abandoned cows. The Sarai Mohana village is a serene and quiet weaver’s colony. Learn of the art and efforts of making silk and producing the breath taking Banarasi silk here. At the meeting point of the rivers Ganga and Gomati lies Kaithi, another religious village with a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. 

ASTROLOGY

 The Vedic knowledge of astrology or Jyotsh Shastra has continued in a centuries old tradition which guides the Hindu life world. Varanasi is an ancient centre of learning in the field and continues to attract students from far and wide. Explore your past, present and future with this ancient knowledge system

SUBAH – E- BANARAS, VARANASI

Teaming with temples, big and small belonging to the morning at Assi Ghat are an experience in divinity. The clanging temple bells and the renditions of the aarti begin the day of this religious town. Attend a hawan (a special way of worship) before a morning is immersed in live devotional music and yoga to cleanse the body and soul.

THE SILK AND SAREE, VARANASI

Rich silk, woven with intricate designs of gold and silver brocade,the Banarasi saree is a favorite adornment of every Indian woman. Delicately crafted intricate designs are inspired by Mughal motifs who were patrons of this craft of silk weaving. An attention to detail, compact weaving, a heavy outer border and jaal (net like pattern) are its special features.

DINNER WITH AN INDIAN FAMILY, VARANASI

In a traditional Indian Household, food is generally prepared by the women of the house. While in earlier joint families, duties were divided between women, in today’s nuclear setups the woman of the house undertakes all the tasks herself. But she takes pride in keeping the traditional flavours and techniques alive. Join in a family meal and take part in the dinner preparations to get firsthand experience of the use of spices and vegetables to produce simple yet mouthwatering cuisine. Learn about the rules and regulations and eating habits associated with the Hindu religion.

In Varanasi the flavours are alive with the cultural nuances of the area. Come and experience a unique journey of tastes and homely simplicity. This is a unique opportunity interact with a local family and learn about their lives traditions in the heart of the holiest city of the country.