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7-Day Itinerary: Exploring Banaras

Thursday, August 3: Arrival and Ganga Aarti

In the morning, arrive in Banaras and check into your hotel. Afternoon, head to the famous Dashashwamedh Ghat to witness the grand Ganga Aarti ceremony, where priests perform rituals to worship the holy river Ganges. In the evening, take a boat ride along the river to absorb the magical atmosphere.

  • Dashashwamedh Ghat: Free, 2 hours
  • Ganga Aarti: Free, 1 hour
Friday, August 4: Banaras Ghats and Temples

Explore the ancient ghats of Banaras in the morning, starting with Assi Ghat and then moving towards Manikarnika Ghat. Immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance and witness Hindu rituals being performed. In the afternoon, visit the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Spend the evening exploring the narrow lanes of the Old City.

  • Assi Ghat: Free, 1 hour
  • Manikarnika Ghat: Free, 1 hour
  • Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Free, 2 hours
Saturday, August 5: Sarnath Excursion

Take a day trip to Sarnath, a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site. Explore the ancient ruins of monasteries, visit the Dhamek Stupa, and learn about the life of Lord Buddha at the Sarnath Museum. Witness the evening chanting by Buddhist monks at the Mulagandha Kuti Vihar monastery.

  • Sarnath Ruins: Free, 3 hours
  • Dhamek Stupa: Free, 1 hour
  • Sarnath Museum: INR 5 (approx.), 1 hour
  • Mulagandha Kuti Vihar: Free, 1 hour
Sunday, August 6: Banaras Silk Weaving

Start your day by exploring the famous Banaras silk weaving industry. Visit a silk weaving center to witness the intricate process of creating exquisite Banarasi sarees. In the afternoon, take a walk through the beautiful gardens of Ramnagar Fort, an 18th-century fort with a museum displaying royal artifacts.

  • Banaras Silk Weaving Center: Free, 2 hours
  • Ramnagar Fort: INR 15 (approx.), 2 hours
Monday, August 7: Varanasi Food Trail

Embark on a culinary adventure by exploring the local street food scene of Varanasi. Indulge in mouthwatering delicacies like kachori, chaat, lassi, and the famous Banarasi paan. Visit renowned food joints like Kashi Chat Bhandar and Blue Lassi Shop. In the evening, experience the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Harishchandra Ghat.

  • Varanasi Street Food: INR 200 (approx.), 3 hours
  • Kashi Chat Bhandar: INR 50 (approx.), 1 hour
  • Blue Lassi Shop: INR 100 (approx.), 1 hour
  • Harishchandra Ghat: Free, 1 hour
Tuesday, August 8: Boat Ride and Banaras Hindu University

Start your day with a serene boat ride on the Ganges, witnessing the morning rituals and the sunrise. Afterward, visit Banaras Hindu University (BHU), one of the largest residential universities in Asia. Explore the beautiful campus, visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan museum, and admire the architecture of the Vishwanath Temple within the university premises.

  • Boat Ride: INR 200 (approx.), 2 hours
  • Banaras Hindu University: Free, 3 hours
Wednesday, August 9: Ramnagar Fort and Shopping

Return to Ramnagar Fort in the morning to witness the grand Ramnagar Ramlila, a traditional performance depicting the life of Lord Rama. In the afternoon, indulge in some shopping in the vibrant markets of Banaras, where you can find exquisite silk products, jewelry, and handicrafts. End your day with a mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Dasaswamedh Ghat.

  • Ramnagar Ramlila: INR 100 (approx.), 3 hours
  • Banaras Shopping: Cost varies, 3 hours
  • Dasaswamedh Ghat: Free, 1 hour

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Banaras, make sure to visit the hidden gem, Chunar Fort, located on the banks of the Ganges. This ancient fort provides breathtaking views of the river and the surrounding countryside. Another local favorite is the Bharat Mata Temple, dedicated to Mother India, showcasing a relief map of India carved out of marble.

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