Morning: After a brief rest from the delayed train, check into a comfortable hotel near the river and freshen up. Begin the spiritual journey with a visit to the sacred Triveni Sangam, where the Ganga, Yamuna and mythical Saraswati converge.
Afternoon: Continue to the revered Alopi Shakti Peeth and then to the bustling Bade Hanuman Temple, where devotees offer prayers to the mighty Hanuman. A short walk brings you to the historic Shankar Viman Mandapam, showcasing ancient architecture.
Evening: Conclude the day at the tranquil Akshayavatam tree, a symbol of eternal life, and enjoy a relaxed dinner near the riverbank.
Find HotelsMorning: After early check‑in and freshening up, head to the iconic Hanuman Garhi Temple for a serene start. Visit the royal Kanak Bhavan and then the sacred Rama Janmabhoomi (note the 11 am‑1 pm closure).
Afternoon: Explore the historic Nageshwarnath Temple and the majestic Dasharath Mahal. A short drive brings you to the scenic riverfront at Ram Ki Paidi, where the Saryu aarti creates a magical atmosphere.
Evening: Return to Ayodhya for a leisurely dinner and optional evening walk along the Saryu River before catching the 4‑5 hour train to Varanasi.
Find HotelsMorning: Arrive in Varanasi and check into an ashram or hotel near the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Refresh and then visit the fierce Kala Bhairava Temple, a favorite among devotees.
Afternoon: Proceed to the serene Mrityunjay Mahadev Mandir (Dhanvantari Kup), known for its healing ambience. Take a short break before preparing for the evening rituals.
Evening: Witness the spectacular Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat (6:30‑7 pm), where lamps and hymns illuminate the ghats, creating an unforgettable spiritual experience.
Find HotelsMorning: Rise early to attend the auspicious Annapurna Devi Temple ceremony (4:00 am‑11:30 am). Follow with darshan at the revered Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirlinga and nearby shrines such as Varahi Mata, Vishalakshi and Ammavaru Temple.
Afternoon: Continue the pilgrimage to the ancient Chandrakup and the tranquil Siddheshwar Mahadev Temple. Take a leisurely lunch near the river and rest before the evening festivities.
Evening: Embark on a guided ghat circuit covering Manikarnika Ghat, Dashashwamedh Ghat, Kedar Ghat, Pancha Ganga Ghat, Harishchandra Ghat, Namo Ghat, Adi Keshav Ghat, Assi Ghat, Tulsi Ghat, Scindia Ghat and Raj Ghat. The sequence ensures you experience the vibrant Chhath celebrations at each sacred shore.
Find HotelsMorning: Participate in the sacred Chakra Teertha Snanam ritual, taking a holy dip in the Ganga. Afterwards, visit the prominent Surya temples such as Assi Ghat – Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple and Tulsi Ghat – Lolarka Aditya Kund, honoring the twelve Adityas.
Afternoon: Explore additional sun temples along the riverbank, including the historic Home of Tulsidas. Enjoy a light lunch before departing for Gaya by an early afternoon train.
Evening: Arrive in Gaya and check into a comfortable lodge near the Mahabodhi Temple. Attend the evening aarti at the Mahabodhi complex, then retire early to catch the 5:50 am train back to Pune on 27 Oct.
Find HotelsTo extend the trip, add an extra night in Varanasi to explore the nearby Sarnath archaeological site and attend a sunrise boat ride on the Ganga. If you need to shorten the itinerary, skip the evening ghat circuit on Day 4 and replace the Gaya excursion with a half‑day visit to Sarnath, allowing an earlier departure from Varanasi.