* Vishwanath Temple (the Golden Temple) - the most popular Hindu temple in Varanasi. Unfortunately, non-Hindu's are not allowed to enter the temple itself, but we had the pleasure of seeing the beautiful exterior and the joy of waiting in the "security line". I am being completely sarcastic with the latter, as this is the point where Phil went absolutely BALLISTIC on the trip! In line to this holy temple, a young boy reached into Phil's pant pocket and tried to steal his wallet. Naturally, Phil exploded on the teen and our tour guide got involved. Phil had the option of sending the boy to jail, but instead he just made a massive scene so that everyone else in line would protect their belongings!!!
* Benares Hindu University - Asia's largest university! This was an exciting part of the trip for me, as you know how much I love school! I couldn't believe how extensive the campus was - with a playing field for every residence and every type of faculty you can think of! We weren't able to go inside any of the buildings, but we did get to visit the New Vishwanath Temple, which is open to all religions. Inside, we made an offering to Lord Shiva (Lord of the Universe) and were blessed with a sign of spiritual devotion on our foreheads.
* The Town of Sarnath - the place where Buddha gave his very first sermon! Sarnath really appealed to us, since traveling and learning about Buddhism in Sri Lanka. We came here with a basic understanding of Buddhism and were able to review the life of the Buddha on the painted walls of the temple. The temple was not as colourful as the ones we saw in Sri Lanka, but it was still a great experience and we purchased some prayer beads to remember the occasion!
* THE STORE - named so because it had so many beautiful things inside that we could have spent hours just staring at the details and colours. Here, I purchased my very first sari (green, blue and pink!) and we also got a duvet cover for our bedroom (black and silver to match the current decor). Both are STUNNING.
* THE OTHER STORE - named so because it ALSO had so many beautiful things inside (haha). We picked up a wood carving of "Lord Ganesha" - Lord of success, knowledge and removal of obstacles. Ganesha is sitting happily in the living room with our Buddha from Sri Lanka.
Back at the hotel, we took the afternoon and evening to RELAX! We watched Independence Day, A Cinderella Story, ordered room service, and SLEPT! It was the perfect end to a great time in Varanasi (plus the rain held off until our touring was finished!).
Off to Agra - via train. BAHA. Just wait.
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