Navigate from Varanasi Junction with your baby. Tips on rickshaws, accommodations, and surviving the heat in India’s spiritual hub.
Table of Contents
- Main Journey
- Key Events
- Tips for Traveling with a Baby
- Local Travel Tips
- Travel Reflections
Main Journey in Varanasi Junction to Bengali Tola travel
Arriving in Varanasi: Delayed but Relieved
We arrived in Varanasi on an overnight train that was scheduled to reach at 9:30 AM but only pulled into the station at 1:20 PM—nearly a 4-hour delay. Surprisingly, the delay didn’t feel like a burden. It gave us more time to rest, play with Sweetie, and enjoy the sights of rural India passing by our window.
Varanasi Junction was as bustling as expected, with the chaotic charm that epitomizes Indian train stations. From the moment we stepped off the train, we were surrounded by rickshaw drivers offering their services, most quoting inflated prices and trying to take us to places we didn’t want to go. After some persistence, we negotiated an auto-rickshaw for 150 INR to take us toward Bengali Tola near the Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Key Events
A Rickshaw Adventure
Carrying backpacks and Sweetie in the blazing sun made finding a rickshaw quite an ordeal. When we finally boarded the auto-rickshaw, the bumpy roads of Varanasi gave us a roller-coaster-like experience. However, the ride ended earlier than expected because motorized vehicles are restricted near the ghats. The driver left us about 1 km from our destination, and we had no choice but to walk through the narrow, crowded streets under the scorching sun.
Checking into Our Guesthouse
Our pre-booked guesthouse was located in Bengali Tola, a popular area for budget travelers. Online booking meant we paid 500 INR for a fan room, though similar rooms could be found for 300 INR if booked on the spot. The room was unbearably hot, with just a ceiling fan pushing the warm air around. Exhausted and sticky from the heat, Julie and I decided we couldn’t stay there for long.
Searching for a Better Room
After a short rest, we ventured out to find a cooler room. AC rooms are more expensive but were becoming a necessity in the relentless heat of Varanasi. Navigating the narrow streets with their mix of locals, cows, and motorbikes was a sensory overload, but the thought of a comfortable night’s sleep kept us moving.
Tips for Traveling with a Baby
- Plan for Delays
Train delays are common in India, so carry extra food, water, and diapers for your baby. Use the extra time to rest or play with your little one. - Negotiate Fairly with Rickshaw Drivers
Always haggle before accepting a price. Be firm but polite to avoid getting overcharged. - Stay Cool in the Heat
If traveling during summer, prioritize accommodations with air conditioning, especially when traveling with a baby. The heat can be overwhelming for little ones. - Pack Light for Short Walks
Narrow streets near the ghats often require walking to your destination. Use a baby carrier instead of a stroller for easier navigation. - Book One Night First
Pre-book only one night at accommodations in Varanasi. This gives you time to explore other options without being locked into an uncomfortable stay.
Local Travel Tips
Getting Around
- Auto-Rickshaws: Perfect for short distances, but negotiate prices in advance.
- Walking: Be prepared to walk in the ghat areas. Comfortable shoes and light clothing are a must.
Accommodations
- Budget Rooms: You can find fan rooms for 300 INR if booked directly, but they are often hot during summer.
- AC Rooms: Worth the extra cost during peak heat. Look for rooms in quieter lanes for a peaceful stay.
Exploring the Ghats
- Dashashwamedh Ghat: The heart of Varanasi, especially lively in the evenings during the Ganga Aarti.
Travel Reflections in Varanasi Junction to Bengali Tola travel
Varanasi greeted us with its typical chaos and intensity. The delayed train, heated negotiations with rickshaw drivers, and the stifling heat made for a challenging day, but it also underscored the resilience required for travel in India. Sweetie’s adaptability continues to amaze us—she slept through much of the journey, seemingly unaffected by the heat and commotion.
Stepping out of the rickshaw and walking toward Bengali Tola, we saw our first glimpse of the Ganges. The sight of the holy river felt surreal, like a postcard of India come to life. It reminded us why we chose to explore this world, even when the journey is tough. As we ended our day in a humid room, we were already planning how to make tomorrow better—because in travel, as in life, challenges are part of the adventure. 🌍
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