Discover the vibrant streets of Varanasi, indulge in Korean food, sip refreshing lassi, and take a dip in the sacred Ganges.
Table of Contents
- Main Journey
- Key Events
- Tips for Traveling with a Baby
- Local Travel Tips
- Travel Reflections
Main Journey of Swimming in the Ganges Varanasi
After a serene sunrise boat ride the previous day, our day in Varanasi began with an early morning move to a new guesthouse, Jyoti Paying Guest House. The promise of air conditioning motivated us to haul our luggage in the already rising heat of the day.
The sight of the air-conditioned room was pure bliss. We stood under the cool air, letting the refreshing chill clear our minds. After settling in, we noticed some fellow travelers—whom we had met on the boat—enjoying fruit downstairs. Soon, we found ourselves joining them for lunch at a Korean restaurant in the heart of the city.
Key Events
1. A Taste of Home: Korean Food at Raga Café
Our lunch destination, Raga Café, was located near the cremation ghat. For the first time since the start of our world travels, we indulged in Korean food—comforting bowls of seaweed soup, spicy instant noodles, and rice sets.
Sweetie, despite being accustomed to spices from various cuisines, was ecstatic to sip seaweed soup, holding the bowl like a seasoned Korean diner. The wait for food was long, as is typical in India, but the satisfaction of eating familiar flavors was worth every second.
2. Exploring the Cremation Ghat
After lunch, we visited the cremation ghat nearby. Observing the rituals up close was emotionally overwhelming. Families grieving, the sight of cremations, and the reverence surrounding the place were sobering. We stayed only briefly, as the intensity of the scene made it difficult to linger.
3. Cooling Off with Lassi
In the afternoon, we ventured out to try lassi—a yogurt-based drink that’s a staple in Indian cuisine. The banana and papaya lassis at a Japanese-frequented café were refreshing, though less creamy than expected.
4. A Dip in the Ganges
By 4 PM, the heat had subsided slightly, and we joined our fellow travelers at a designated bathing ghat. Initially hesitant due to concerns about the water’s cleanliness, I eventually decided to take the plunge.
The moment my body hit the water, it felt rejuvenating. Sweetie, watching from the sidelines, was fascinated by others splashing around and soon insisted on joining in. Julie stayed on the shore to keep her company while I swam with newfound friends.
The ghat turned out to be a children’s swimming class area, and we soon made way for their lessons. We relocated to a nearby sandbar, where local children frolicked in the water like playful seals.
Tips for Traveling with a Baby
1. Stay Cool
The heat in Varanasi can be intense. Opt for accommodations with air conditioning and schedule outdoor activities in the cooler mornings or late afternoons.
2. Hydration is Key
Carry plenty of water, and make stops to enjoy fresh coconut water or lassi to keep your baby hydrated and cool.
3. Protect Against the Sun
Bring sunscreen, hats, and light clothing for your baby to shield them from the strong sunlight.
4. Involve Your Baby in New Experiences
Sweetie’s curiosity about the water was a reminder to include her in unique local activities whenever possible, like safe swimming spots or observing rituals from a respectful distance.
Local Travel Tips
1. Where to Eat
Raga Café is an excellent choice for those craving Korean food, but be prepared for a long wait. For lassi, consider trying multiple cafés, as quality can vary.
2. Visit the Cremation Ghats Respectfully
This is a deeply spiritual place, and silence is appreciated. Photography is not allowed, and it’s best to observe from a respectful distance.
3. Explore Alternative Ghats
The ghats each serve a unique purpose, from ceremonial rituals to bathing and swimming. Spend time at quieter ghats like Assi for a more relaxed vibe.
4. Travel Light
Navigating the narrow streets of Varanasi can be tricky. Avoid carrying too much and stick to essentials.
Travel Reflections of Swimming in the Ganges Varanasi
This day was a mix of emotions—comfort in the familiar taste of Korean food, awe at the sacred traditions of the cremation ghats, and joy in embracing the Ganges’ cooling waters.
Watching Sweetie interact with new friends and insist on joining the swimming reminded me of the pure curiosity and adaptability that children have. Traveling with her has taught us to find joy in every moment, no matter how ordinary it might seem.
The highlight of the day was undoubtedly the Ganges swim. Overcoming my initial hesitations allowed me to connect more deeply with the spirit of Varanasi. The water, surprisingly refreshing, seemed to wash away not just the day’s heat but also the mental fatigue of travel.
As we wrapped up the day with a relaxed evening under the air conditioning, I couldn’t help but feel grateful—for the chance to experience the world as a family and for the memories that make every day of this journey extraordinary.
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