A Day in Varanasi in July 2023

1. 7:00AM: Assi Ghat
   10 minutes (2.1 km) from Varanasi Junction Railway Station

   Assi Ghat is one of the most popular ghats in Varanasi, famous for morning yoga classes and boat rides. You can witness the incredible Sunrise from here. Assi Ghat is also the perfect spot to take a holy dip in the river Ganges.

2. 9:00AM: Kashi Vishwanath Temple
   15 minutes (2.7 km) from Assi Ghat

   The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most significant Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple has a gold-plated spire and is located on the western bank of the Holy River Ganges. The temple is open from 4:30 AM to 11:00 PM daily.

3. 11:00AM: Sarnath
   30 minutes (9.7 km) from Kashi Vishwanath Temple

   Sarnath is a famous Buddhist site where Lord Buddha preached his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. The site includes the Dhamek Stupa, Chaukhandi Stupa, and ruins of several Buddhist monasteries. The site is open from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily.

4. 1:00PM: Lunch at Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe
   15 minutes (6.1 km) from Sarnath

   Enjoy delicious wood-fired Pizzas at Vaatika Cafe, a rooftop restaurant offering spectacular views of the city. Their menu includes many other Italian and Indian dishes as well. The restaurant is open from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM daily.

5. 3:00PM: Bharat Mata Mandir
   15 minutes (5.2 km) from Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe

   Bharat Mata Mandir is a unique temple dedicated to Mother India. The temple does not depict any Gods or Goddesses but has a giant map of India carved in marble. It is open from 9:30 AM to 8:00 PM daily.

6. 5:00PM: Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat
   15 minutes (4.5 km) from Bharat Mata Mandir

   Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat is a famous Hindu ritual performed every evening, a beautiful ceremony of lights and music. The Aarti starts at 7:00 PM daily, and you can hire a boat to experience it from the river.

Recommendations

Don't miss out on visiting the Banaras Hindu University, which has a vast campus with beautiful gardens and museums. You can also take a day trip to the nearby Chunar Fort or visit the Ramnagar Fort and Museum. To maximize your fun, try out the street food in Varanasi, like Kachori Sabzi, Lassi, and Paan.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Assi Ghat (1 hour, free)
• Kashi Vishwanath Temple (1.5 hours, free)
• Sarnath (2 hours, ₹20)
• Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe (1 hour, ₹700)
• Bharat Mata Mandir (1 hour, free)
• Dashashwamedh Ghat (1 hour, free)
• Total Estimated Costs: ₹720

Check out the booking website for hotel and flight prices.