Give it a miss. Review on Varanasi

Hey there.

A number of reviews have been written on how wonderful Varanasi, Benaras or Kaashi is. People are going ga-ga about its spiritualism, Hindu culture, etc. Great. But now, open your minds and think---

It is one of the dirtiest cities in the world.

It is one of the most lawless cities of India.

The so-called Hindu culture has given rise to extremist thoughts of the worst kinds-- don't tolerate any kind of middle line on peoples lifestyles--protest about "Water", protest about Aamir Khan, protest about all kinds of silly things.

It is one of the laziest cities. the local populace seem to be busy only with festivals and staying up all night eating paan and drinking bhaang.

It is one of the most congested cities of the country today. the average speed of traffic is equal to a rickshaw. This is not my figure, but a figure quoted by the commissioner of Varansi himself.

The people are always looking to fleece you--just like in Agra.

The tourist infrastructure is below par--the tourist police is a joke, most of the guides are doubling up as couriers for drugs and hookers, the airport is useless and the train station has probably not been cleaned since 1965.

Don't believe me. Go and see for yourself. Don't go with an emotional and prejudiced bent of mind, but go with eyes and ears open-- what should a modern city--and forget the oldest living city bit--it's all nonsense-- and a major tourist centre be like? Think about it.

Have fun!!!