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Ayodhya & Varanasi 5‑Day Darshan Itinerary (23‑28 Sept 2025)

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Day 1: Arrival in Ayodhya & Evening Stroll

Morning: Fly into Lucknow and take a comfortable 2‑hour drive to Ayodhya. Check into your hotel, freshen up, and enjoy a light breakfast.

Afternoon: Relax at the hotel or explore the nearby Kanak Bhawan courtyard, admiring its intricate carvings and peaceful gardens.

Evening: Walk along the serene banks of the Saryu River, witnessing the sunset and attending the evening aarti at the ghats.

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Day 2: Sacred Sites of Ayodhya

Morning: Begin with a visit to the revered Sri Ram Janmabhoomi Complex, where you can explore the sanctum and learn about its history.

Afternoon: Head to Hanuman Garhi for panoramic views of the city and a chance to offer prayers at the towering Hanuman statue.

Evening: Enjoy a cultural program at the Ramayana Museum, followed by a dinner featuring local Awadhi cuisine.

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Day 3: Journey to Varanasi & Initial Exploration

Morning: Depart early by private car or train to Varanasi (≈6 hours). Arrive, check into your hotel, and rest briefly.

Afternoon: Stroll through the bustling lanes of the old city, stopping at the historic Banaras Hindu University (BHU) Campus and its serene campus lake.

Evening: Witness the magical Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, where lamps illuminate the river and chants fill the air.

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Day 4: Varanasi Highlights & Sarnath Excursion

Morning: Take a sunrise boat ride from Assi Ghat to experience the holy river’s mist and view the ghats from the water.

Afternoon: Visit the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple and then travel 10 km to Sarnath to see the Dhamek Stupa and Ashoka Pillar.

Evening: Return to the city for a leisurely walk along Tulsi Ghat**, enjoying street food and the vibrant night market.

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Day 5: Final Darshan & Departure

Morning: Pay respects at the sacred Manikarnika Ghat, witnessing the timeless cremation rituals along the Ganges.

Afternoon: Explore the colorful lanes of the **Bharat Mata Temple** and shop for silk scarves and brassware.

Evening: Depart from Varanasi airport or railway station for your onward journey, carrying cherished memories of the pilgrimage.

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Time and Cost Estimates

  • Sri Ram Janmabhoomi Complex – 2 hrs – ₹150 entry
  • Hanuman Garhi – 1.5 hrs – Free
  • Ramayana Museum – 1 hr – ₹100
  • Dashashwamedh Ghat (Aarti) – 1 hr – Free
  • Assi Ghat Sunrise Boat Ride – 1.5 hrs – ₹500 per person
  • Kashi Vishwanath Temple – 1 hr – Free (donations optional)
  • Sarnath (Dhamek Stupa, Ashoka Pillar) – 3 hrs – ₹250 entry
  • Manikarnika Ghat – 1 hr – Free
  • Banaras Hindu University Campus – 1 hr – Free
  • Tulsi Ghat & Evening Market – 2 hrs – Variable (₹300–₹800 for food & souvenirs)
  • Travel (Ayodhya → Varanasi) – 6 hrs – ₹1,200 per person
  • Accommodation (5 nights) – – ₹8,000 per person (mid‑range)
  • Meals (5 days) – – ₹2,500 per person
  • Transportation (local taxis/auto) – – ₹1,000 per person
  • Total Estimated Cost≈ ₹14,800 per person

Tips

If you have extra time, consider adding a day trip to the nearby town of **Mirzapur** for its famed handloom workshops, or extend your stay in Varanasi to experience a full day of yoga and meditation by the Ganges. For a shorter itinerary, skip the Sarnath visit and focus on the main ghats and temples, which will reduce travel time and costs while still offering a fulfilling spiritual experience.

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