Varanasi is one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world and it is considered to be the spiritual capital of India.
Life here seems to revolve around the Ganges. Thousands make the pilgrimmage to bathe and drink its waters. Although a dawn boat ride is lovely, I wouldn't recommend touching the water at all - it is incredibly polluted. Due to religious belief, many people come to Varanasi to die.
One evening in Varanasi we happened upon a parade, in honour of the god Shiva I think. Parades and celebrations aren't uncommon in India, but seeing an elephant marching down the road in the midst of hundreds of people was certainly a sight for me. ;)
My strongest memory of Varanasi is seeing a cow sitting down smack-bang in the middle of a shop. Apparently the cow makes its way there everyday, just comes through the glass doors and sets up residence for a time. India is unique like that. ;)
India is an amazing destination.
I think this post captures my thoughts and impressions best, and you can see all my posts on India here.
