After more than 14 hours on the rail, we (met some Taiwanese backpackers along the way) got really excited as the train slowly got into Varanasi Junction train station. After haggling with the auto drivers to ensure that they don't go to the guesthouse where they want us to stay (for the commission of course), we boarded 2 autos (Rs40 or S$1.48) and got to Hotel Alka in Meer Ghat (Old City). As the hotel was full, I went north to Scindhia Ghat and decided to stay in Scindhia Guesthouse (an air-conditioned room costs Rs 600 or S$22 per night).

The grand plan initially was to nap (with the a/c in full blast) away all those fatigue from the long train journey. However, it seems that the government of Uttar Pradesh decided to cut the power the part of the day when it is the hottest (i.e. noon). It also did not help when the reception stated clearly that their backup power is only used for the most essential purposes (i.e. fan, bathroom light), thus the room (when I got in) was as hot as a tandoor when I got in. :(

I made do with a bath and lied on bed (for 10min) before sweating profusely. Went out for a walk and realised most people were sitting in the shade; sipping chai (milk tea) and waiting for the summer heat to subside. Like what I stated previously, life goes on as usual (with or without the heat). I was probably the only one that was affected by summer; to be frank, I was surprised that it could have even got this hot (43 Degrees Celsius)!

After a couple of hours in the hot sun, I went back to my room and found the a/c to be working (YES, the power is back). Took a rest and went to check out the puja (or prayers) ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat. It was touristy at the fullest but it offers exactly what most day-trippers needed; a dose of blessings when they made this holy pilgrimage to the Great Mother Ganges River.