Queen Elizabeth was the chief guest for the Republic Day parade in Delhi in 1961. On the itinerary was a visit to Benaras. The plan was to travel from Agra to Ramnagar Fort and then ride elephant-back for sightseeing. Finally, when they arrived at the ghat close to the fort, they took a boat ride on the Ganga. That evening, an official city reception was hosted by the Mayor of Benaras.

ALSO READ: India’s erstwhile royal families on hosting Queen Elizabeth II during her first trip to India