Varanasi Cantt: The Gateway to Spiritual Varanasi

• Helloनमस्ते
  [Namaste]
• Goodbyeअलविदा
  [Alvida]
• Yesहाँ
  [Haan]
• Noनहीं
  [Nahi]
• Please/You're welcomeकृपया
  [Kripya]
• Thank youधन्यवाद
  [Dhanyavaad]
• Excuse me/Sorryमाफ़ कीजिए
  [Maaf kijiye]
• How are you?आप कैसे हैं?
  [Aap kaise hain?]
• Fine. And you?ठीक हूँ। और आप?
  [Theek hoon. Aur aap?]
• Do you speak English?क्या आप अंग्रेज़ी बोलते हैं?
  [Kya aap angrezi bolte hain?]
• I don't understandमुझे समझ में नहीं आया
  [Mujhe samajh mein nahi aaya]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseकृपया मेनू दिखाइए
  [Kripya menu dikhaiye]
• I don't eat meatमैं मांस नहीं खाता/खाती
  [Main maans nahi khaata/khaati]
• Cheers!चियर्स!
  [Cheers!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseकृपया मुझे भुगतान करने दीजिए
  [Kripya mujhe bhugtaan karne dijiye]

• Help!बचाओ!
  [Bachao!]
• Go away!चले जाओ!
  [Chale jao!]
• Call the Police!पुलिस को बुलाओ!
  [Police ko bulaao!]
• Call a doctor!डॉक्टर को बुलाओ!
  [Doctor ko bulaao!]
• I'm lostमैं खो गया/गई हूँ
  [Main kho gaya/gayi hoon]
• I'm illमुझे बीमारी है
  [Mujhe bimari hai]

• I'd like to buy...मुझे ... खरीदना है
  [Mujhe ... khareedna hai]
• I'm just lookingमैं बस देख रहा/रही हूँ
  [Main bas dekh raha/rahi hoon]
• How much is it?यह कितने का है?
  [Yeh kitne ka hai?]
• That's too expensiveयह बहुत महंगा है
  [Yeh bahut mehnga hai]
• Can you lower the price?क्या आप कीमत कम कर सकते हैं?
  [Kya aap keemat kam kar sakte hain?]

• What time is it?समय क्या है?
  [Samay kya hai?]
• It's one o'clockएक बजे हैं
  [Ek baje hain]
• Half past (10)दस बजकर पंद्रह मिनट हैं
  [Das bajkar pandrah minute hain]
• Morningसुबह
  [Subah]
• Afternoonदोपहर
  [Dopahar]
• Eveningशाम
  [Sham]
• Yesterdayकल
  [Kal]
• Todayआज
  [Aaj]
• Tomorrowकल
  [Kal]
• 1एक
  [Ek]
• 2दो
  [Do]
• 3तीन
  [Teen]
• 4चार
  [Char]
• 5पांच
  [Paanch]
• 6छह
  [Chhah]
• 7सात
  [Saath]
• 8आठ
  [Aath]
• 9नौ
  [Nau]
• 10दस
  [Das]

• Where's a/the...?... कहाँ है?
  [... kahan hai?]
• What's the address?पता क्या है?
  [Pata kya hai?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?क्या आप मुझे दिखा सकते हैं (नक्शे पर)?
  [Kya aap mujhe dikha sakte hain (naksha par)?]
• When's the next (bus)?अगली (बस) कब है?
  [Agli (bus) kab hai?]
• A ticket (to ....)एक टिकट (.... के लिए)
  [Ek ticket (... ke liye)]

Varanasi Cantt, short for Varanasi Cantonment, was established during the British colonial period in the mid-19th century. The British recognized the strategic importance of Varanasi due to its location along the Ganges River and its significance as a religious and cultural center. The establishment of the cantonment served both military and administrative purposes, providing a base for British troops and facilitating better governance in the region.

The architecture of Varanasi Cantt reflects a blend of colonial and Indian styles, showcasing the cultural amalgamation that occurred during British rule. Notable buildings from this era include the iconic Cantt Railway Station, which serves as a crucial transportation hub. The influence of British aesthetics is evident in the layout of the streets and public spaces, juxtaposed with traditional Indian elements, creating a unique urban landscape.

Varanasi played a significant role in the Indian Rebellion of 1857, often referred to as the first war of independence. The cantonment area was a focal point for military activities, and the discontent among Indian soldiers led to uprisings in various parts of India, including Varanasi. The rebellion highlighted the growing unrest against British colonial rule, and while it was ultimately suppressed, it set the stage for future movements toward independence.

After India gained independence in 1947, Varanasi Cantt continued to grow, both as a military and civilian area. The cantonment board has since focused on urban development and infrastructure improvements. Varanasi Cantt has become home to many officers and their families, contributing to a distinct community that balances military heritage with local culture. The area is known for its parks, schools, and historical sites, making it a vital part of the city.

Today, Varanasi Cantt is not only a military zone but also a vibrant neighborhood that reflects the rich cultural tapestry of Varanasi. It serves as a gateway for tourists visiting the city, offering modern amenities alongside traditional experiences. The presence of markets, temples, and educational institutions makes it a lively area that continues to evolve while retaining its historical essence.

Varanasi Cantt is well-connected to other neighbourhoods in Varanasi. If you're coming from the city center or the ghats, you can take an auto-rickshaw or taxi, which are readily available. The Varanasi Junction Railway Station is also located in this area, making it convenient for train travelers. Buses are another option, with various routes connecting Cantt to other regions. For those arriving by air, Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport is about 25 kilometers away, and you can take a taxi or pre-booked cab to reach Varanasi Cantt.

Varanasi Cantt is easily navigable via auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws, and taxis, which are widely available. Public buses operate in the area, connecting various parts of the city. For a more local experience, consider renting a bicycle, which allows you to explore at your own pace. Walking is also a great option, especially in the quieter parts of the neighbourhood.

Varanasi Cantt is generally safe for tourists, but it's wise to remain vigilant. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While violent crime is rare, petty theft can occur, especially in tourist-heavy areas. Exercise caution around the railway station and bus terminals, as these are known hotspots for scams and pickpocketing.

In case of an emergency, dial 100 for police or 102 for ambulance services. The local hospitals and clinics are equipped to handle medical emergencies, and it's advisable to have travel insurance that covers such situations. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available throughout Varanasi Cantt.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in religious areas. Avoid revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially during religious ceremonies. Public Transport: Do give up your seat for elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet with 'Namaste' and a slight bow. Eating & Drinking: Do try local street food but only from clean stalls. Don't refuse food when offered, as it may offend the host.

To experience Varanasi Cantt like a local, visit the bustling markets for fresh produce and local handicrafts. Engage with shopkeepers and residents—they often share stories about the area. Don’t miss the nearby Sarnath, a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site, just a short ride away. Try to attend local festivals for an authentic cultural experience, and don’t hesitate to ask locals for dining recommendations to enjoy the best of local cuisine.