Varanasi(Benares) India

We left Kathmandu flying in the warm embrace of Buddha Air. I felt safe and secure, but Tammy, after seeing the little airplane with 2 propellers, felt a little less so. We landed without incident in Varanasi India, and braced ourselves for the intensity that is India.

The holy city of Varanasi (Benares) consists of an endless series of ghats (steps) leading to the river Ganges. Hundu pilgrims travel from all over India to bathe in the sacred river, join in the daily rituals at dawn and dusk, set lit floral offerings adrift or simply soak up the heady atmosphere. Some renounce their worldly goods and live simply along the banks, hopeful for a better future reincarnation. When death arrives, the lucky are wrapped, cleansed in the holy river and delivered to the burning ghats, where public cremations operate 24/7. Death here is not a taboo subject, but rather an open and accepted natural event. There is no crying or wailing, which would distress the departing spirit, and the officiating male family member is shaved and dressed in white. For visitors like ourselves, no photographs are allowed which we certainly understand and respect. It was interesting to observe these rituals as well as the offerings, bathing and daily life along the banks.

These young girls will gladly pose or paint your forehead for money.

Not a minute goes by without being approached by someone offering to sell chai, offering flowers, souvenirs, or a boat ride.

Please Sir boat ride…..Good Price…..One hour…..Best time of day!

Inspired, I made my own offering to the river Ganges, my Connecticut River Museum cap. The cap which I have proudly worn for the last 18 months has served me well, but sadly has become a bit tatty, sweat stained and tired. These 2 great rivers, the Connecticut and the Ganges are now forever linked through my CRM cap. Farewell old friend.