Ghats of Varanasi

This was one of the most incredibly powerful experience I've had during my travels. The ghats are terraced stairs that give people access to the Ganges river. They're always bustling with activity from the crack of dawn when the women come to wash clothes and others come to wash themselves. It' also a popular meeting point among locals. There are many painters who gather there to reflect on the beauty of the Ganges as the light changes throughout the day. It an "essential" area that gives off an air of peace and tranquility.

They also have cremation rituals on the ghats and, honestly, it's not a big deal if you have a look.

Varanasi is known for its ghats on the River Ganges. It's almost like a parallel city exists on the banks of the river where people live in hovels among the strange and beautiful decorations along the entire banks of the river. These waters are where people take baths, clean, cook, do their daily necessities, etc ...

You have to be prepared, especially for the smell. That's true in most of India, but this city is notorious even among Indians. However, the spiritual weight that the ghats posses is truly amazing. You can see cremation rituals on the banks of the Ganges and how they prepare the pyre and scatter the ashes.

Once you overcome the culture shock, you'll feel relaxed and begin to go with the flow. All that's left if to just enjoy this magical place where you can sit, meditate, and contemplate the sunset.

From old times to new and some, marks one of the most important rites, the cremation of bodies. THe fire purifies the soul from the body, which is a prison! Finally, they throw the ashes into the Ganges. This is the way they break with the continuous cycle of reincarnation and get to Nirvana.

These scenes are very evident at ghats in Varanasi. From dread-locked sadhus to pious pilgrims this place has it all.