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Exploring Varanasi in December 2023

  1. Day 1: Dashashwamedh Ghat
    10 minutes (1.3 miles) from Varanasi City Center

    Dashashwamedh Ghat is one of the most famous and oldest ghats in Varanasi. In the morning, you can witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti, a spiritual ritual dedicated to the River Ganges. After that, explore the nearby Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. In the afternoon, take a boat ride along the Ganges to observe the ghats and witness the cultural activities. In the evening, visit the nearby Kashi Vishwanath Temple, an important pilgrimage site.

    • Ganga Aarti: Free, Approx. 1 hour
    • Boat Ride: INR 200-300 per person, Approx. 2 hours
    • Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Free, Approx. 1 hour
  2. Day 2: Sarnath
    30 minutes (7.9 miles) from Varanasi City Center

    In the morning, visit Sarnath, a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site. Explore the Dhamekh Stupa, where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon, and visit the Archaeological Museum to witness ancient artifacts. In the afternoon, explore the Mulagandhakuti Vihara, a modern Buddhist temple, and the Chaukhandi Stupa. In the evening, witness the evening chanting and prayers at one of the Buddhist monasteries.

    • Dhamekh Stupa: Free, Approx. 1 hour
    • Archaeological Museum: INR 5 (Indians), INR 100 (foreigners), Approx. 1-2 hours
    • Mulagandhakuti Vihara: Free, Approx. 1 hour
  3. Day 3: Assi Ghat & Bharat Kala Bhavan
    20 minutes (2.3 miles) from Varanasi City Center

    Start your morning at Assi Ghat, one of the most serene ghats in Varanasi. Witness the beautiful sunrise and indulge in a yoga or meditation session. Afterward, explore the nearby Bharat Kala Bhavan, a museum showcasing a vast collection of Indian art and artifacts. In the afternoon, visit the New Vishwanath Temple, also known as the Birla Temple, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. In the evening, take a stroll along the ghats and witness the Ganga Aarti at Assi Ghat.

    • Yoga/Meditation at Assi Ghat: Free, Approx. 1-2 hours
    • Bharat Kala Bhavan: INR 10 (Indians), INR 200 (foreigners), Approx. 2 hours
    • New Vishwanath Temple: Free, Approx. 1 hour
  4. Day 4: Ramnagar Fort & Varanasi Silk Shopping
    25 minutes (5.7 miles) from Varanasi City Center

    Start your day by visiting the historic Ramnagar Fort, located on the banks of the Ganges River. Explore the museum inside the fort that displays vintage cars, weaponry, and royal artifacts. In the afternoon, embark on a shopping spree for exquisite Varanasi silk sarees and fabrics. Visit popular silk emporiums like JDS Varanasi Silk and Banarasi Silk Handloom. In the evening, enjoy a relaxing boat ride along the Ganges to witness the illuminated ghats.

    • Ramnagar Fort: INR 15 (Indians), INR 200 (foreigners), Approx. 1-2 hours
    • Silk Shopping: Prices vary, Approx. 2-3 hours
    • Boat Ride: INR 200-300 per person, Approx. 1-2 hours

Recommendations

If you have additional time and want to explore further, consider visiting the following attractions:

  • Visit the nearby Chunar Fort, located approximately 40 miles from Varanasi, for a day trip.
  • Explore the Tulsi Manas Temple, dedicated to Lord Rama, and the Durga Temple.
  • Take a day trip to the holy city of Allahabad, located around 125 miles away from Varanasi, to witness the Triveni Sangam.

To get the best deals on hotels and flights, you can check here.

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