Holy Journey: Ayodhya, Varanasi, and Prayagraj
Introduction
This April, our family embarked on a soul-enriching pilgrimage to three of India’s most sacred cities: Ayodhya, Varanasi, and Prayagraj. The trip was not just a travel itinerary but a beautiful reunion of siblings and a journey of spiritual awakening.
My younger brother Naresh had come from the USA, primarily to visit the majestic Kashmir Valley and the holy cities of India. My sister Sneh was in Kanpur, and my wife Subhadra and I were in Delhi. With everyone arriving from different places, Ayodhya was chosen as the perfect meeting point.
Ayodhya – The Birthplace of Lord Rama
On April 16, the four of us—Naresh, Subhadra, Sneh, and I—gathered in Ayodhya. Naresh, Subhadra, and I flew into Ayodhya, while my sister joined us by road from Kanpur. Once checked into our hotel, we set off in the afternoon for Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, the sacred birthplace of Lord Rama. Standing at the site, one could feel the deep devotion and history surrounding this divine place.
After offering our prayers, we made our way to Ram Naya Ghat, located on the serene banks of the Saryu River. The ghat, steeped in spiritual energy, was alive with devotees. As dusk settled, we were fortunate to witness the Saryu Aarti, a mesmerizing experience of devotion, light, and chants that filled the air with peace.
Hanuman Garhi
Hanuman Garhi is a 10th-century temple in Ayodhya, that is considered one of the city’s most important temples. It is a sacred site that attracts devotees from across India and beyond who come to pay homage to Lord Hanuman and seek his blessings. The temple is believed to be the location where Lord Hanuman lived in a cave to protect the town after defeating Ravana and returning to Ayodhya with Lord Rama and Mata Sita.
Varanasi – The Eternal City
The next morning, after a hearty breakfast in Ayodhya, we drove to Varanasi, one of the oldest living cities in the world. After checking into our pre-booked hotel and enjoying lunch, we explored the bustling local market. As the sun began to set, we made our way to the ghats of the Ganga River. There, we hired a boat that took us on a serene ride along the 80 ghats of Varanasi—each with its own significance and stories.
The calmness of the river, the flickering lamps, and the echo of evening chants created an atmosphere unlike any other.
On April 18, we started our morning with a visit to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. The temple, with its magnificent new corridor, now connects directly to the banks of the Ganga, making the darshan experience even more special.
After a spiritually fulfilling visit, we proceeded to Sarnath, a significant Buddhist site where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. The tranquil surroundings and well-maintained ruins gave us a glimpse into India’s diverse spiritual history.
Swarved Mahamandir Dhan
We visited the Swarved Mahamandir dham which is a meditation centre dedicated to the human race; for their moral and spiritual growth. Located in the holy city of Varanasi on the way to Sarnath.
Kashi Vidyapeeth University-Later, we visited the Kashi Vidyapeeth University, an iconic institution known for its role in India’s educational and cultural history. We also indulged in some local shopping in the markets nearby.
Prayagraj – The Triveni Sangam
Post breakfast in Varanasi, we set out for Prayagraj (formerly Allahabad), a journey of about 3.5 hours. On arrival, we were guided to the Triveni Sangam—the holy confluence of three rivers: Ganga, Yamuna, and the mystical Saraswati.
Though Saraswati remains invisible, the distinct shades of the Ganga’s clarity and Yamuna’s bluish tint were visible at the confluence. We boarded a special boat restaurant that took us to the Sangam. Taking a holy dip at the meeting point of these rivers was a deeply spiritual moment, believed to cleanse one of all sins and grant blessings.
Conclusion – A Spiritual Family Reunion
Our holy trip concluded as we journeyed to our sister’s home in Kanpur, where we stayed the night. The next day, we boarded the Vande Bharat Express back to Delhi, bringing to a close a meaningful and unforgettable journey.
This trip was more than a travel experience—it was a reconnection with our roots, our faith, and each other. From the divine energy of Ayodhya to the spiritual pulse of Varanasi and the sacred waters of Prayagraj, every moment was steeped in devotion and togetherness.
DK and Subhadra's Visit to various countries and cities! 