1.4 The Road to Varanasi

26/2/24 Monday

Embarking on the journey to Varanasi, our day unfolded as we sipped on kullad chai, setting the tone for the day. The road unveiled a captivating sunrise, offering a brief glimpse before the clouds decided to play hide-and-seek with the sun. Google Maps predicted a 4 pm arrival and a pit stop at The Wayside in Katni for breakfast injected some energy into our expedition.

With bellies full and spirits high, we navigated the roads. As noon approached, we refueled both the car and ourselves, relishing the snacks carefully packed from home. From Mumbai to Varanasi, the roads are in an impeccable condition, save for a brief distance of about 35 kilometers, treating us to diverse terrains and a scenic voyage through rural India.

The lush green topography painted a picturesque scene with fields of wheat and jowar dancing in the wind, while hills and mountains stood sentinel-like, guarding the beauty below. Amidst the journey, the landscape transformed into a canvas adorned with vast fields of yellow mustard, taking us back to scenes from “Dilwale Dulhaniya le Jayenge '' Our journey today was a captivating blend of fun and adventure.

As fate would have it, the day wasn't without its share of surprises. The last 25 kilometers turned into an unexpected odyssey, taking an agonizing hour and a half. Frustration mounted but we refused to let a mere hiccup dampen our spirits. Varanasi awaited, and nothing could stifle our eagerness to explore.

Opting for a wise move, we hired a cab to navigate the labyrinthine lanes of this ancient city. But this wasn't just any cab; it was a Bajaj Qute, a modified marvel resembling an auto rickshaw. Skepticism lingered as we pondered how the four of us would fit inside. However, like puzzle pieces falling into place, we managed to squeeze ourselves in, hardly ready for the hair-raising, daredevilry driving of the locals.

Our first stop was Naya Ghat, where we embarked on a boat journey along the sacred Ganges. The vessel glided through the waters, revealing the mystical transformation of the 84 ghats. Varanasi, with its ancient charm, unfolded before us, each ghat telling a story of centuries past.

As dusk settled, we found ourselves at Dashashwamedh Ghat, immersed in the spiritual spectacle of the Ganga Aarti. The flickering flames, rhythmic chants, and the scent of incense created a divine ambiance, leaving us feeling blessed and in awe of the sacred ritual.

Post Aarti, our taste buds went on a delightful journey at Shree Ram Bhandar, indulging in the mouthwatering delights of chaat, a perfect way to conclude the day's explorations.

Tomorrow holds the promise of darshan at the revered Shri Kashi Vishwanath Mandir. Varanasi, with its enigmatic charm, had already woven its magic, and we were eager to seek the city’s spiritual wonders.

The figures:

7.00 am Start from Bhedaghat

9.00 am Breakfast at Katni - 116 kms

12.30 pm Diesel (61.54 L) and tummy fill - 211 kms

4.15 pm Comfort Inn, Benaras - 166 kms  

Tolls paid today : Rs. 565

Total Tolls paid : Rs. 2210

Traveled today : 493 kms

Total distance covered : 1574 kms