Start the day early with a serene boat ride along the Ganges river, where you can witness the daily rituals, bathing and prayers of the locals. Don't miss the opportunity to experience the spiritual atmosphere and take in the beautiful sunrise over the river. Hire a boat guide to take you to some of the popular sights along the river, such as the Manikarnika Ghat and Dasaswamedh Ghat.
After a morning on the river, head to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most famous and sacred temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple is a must-visit for its stunning architecture and spiritual significance. Spend some time exploring the temple complex and taking in the vibrant atmosphere around it.
End the day with a walk along the ghats, the steps leading down to the Ganges river. Each ghat has its own unique history and significance, making it an interesting cultural experience to visit. Don't miss the incredible Ganga Aarti ceremony, where priests perform a prayer ritual to the river and it's deities.
Begin the day exploring the ancient ruins of Sarnath, a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site where Buddha gave his first sermon. Take a guided tour to learn about the history of the site and visit the Sarnath museum, which houses a vast collection of Buddhist artifacts, including statues, carvings and manuscripts.
After visiting Sarnath, head to the Ramnagar Fort, a stunning 17th-century palace located on the banks of the Ganges river. Explore the impressive architecture and museum exhibits, which include vintage cars, weapons, and manuscripts, to get a glimpse of the royal life of the Maharajas of Varanasi.
On your last day in Varanasi, visit the Bharat Mata Mandir, a unique temple dedicated to the Mother India. The temple has a large map of India carved in marble, depicting the mountains, plains and oceans. It offers a symbolic representation of the country's unity in diversity. The temple also has a collection of paintings and sculptures representing various Indian religions and freedom fighters.
End your trip to Varanasi with a visit to the Benaras Silk Weaving Centre, where you can witness the traditional art of handloom weaving on silk sarees, shawls and fabrics. Take a tour of the center and learn the intricate weaving process and shop for unique handicrafts to take home.
Varanasi has a lot to offer beyond this itinerary, especially for those who appreciate spiritual experiences. If you have more time, consider attending a yoga or meditation class, or exploring some of the other beautiful temples and palaces around the city. For those who have less time, it's recommended to skip the Ramnagar Fort and Benaras Silk Weaving Centre and perhaps spend an extra day exploring some of the other gems of Varanasi.