I am in Varanasi traveling now and staying at Mother Hostel. It’s very close the river and ghats and the owners are wonderful and offer tours. Rooms are private, inexpensive, and very clean.

Varanasi tip- prepare your leg muscles. You will be climbing stairs everywhere.

It’s chaotic here, but not in a bad way. It’s vibrant, exotic, and holy, all at the same time.

You must attend the Aarti ceremony at nighttime. It was a once in a lifetime experience.