6-Day Itinerary for Varanasi - City Experiences

  1. Day 1: Kashi Vishwanath Temple
    20 minutes (3.9 km) from Varanasi Junction Station

    Begin your Varanasi trip by visiting the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. This ancient temple is renowned for its intricate architecture and religious significance in Hinduism.

  2. Day 2: Sarnath
    30 minutes (10.6 km) from Kashi Vishwanath Temple

    Visit the holy city of Sarnath, where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining nirvana. Explore the ancient ruins and walk the Dhamekh Stupa, a major pilgrimage site for Buddhists around the world.

  3. Day 3: Manikarnika Ghat
    18 minutes (3.1 km) from Sarnath

    Experience the spiritual side of the city and immerse yourself in the culture and customs of Varanasi by visiting the Manikarnika Ghat. This sacred spot is considered the most auspicious place for Hindus to be cremated.

  4. Day 4: Ramnagar Fort and Museum
    15 minutes (4.2 km) from Manikarnika Ghat

    Visit the beautiful Ramnagar Fort, an 18th-century structure that overlooks the Ganges River. This architectural masterpiece houses a museum that showcases the life and times of the royal family of Varanasi.

  5. Day 5: Banaras Hindu University
    25 minutes (9.1 km) from Ramnagar Fort and Museum

    Spend the day exploring the historic Banaras Hindu University, one of the most prestigious universities in India. Take a stroll through the scenic campus and visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, which houses a vast collection of ancient Indian paintings and sculptures.

  6. Day 6: Assi Ghat
    15 minutes (4 km) from Banaras Hindu University

    End your Varanasi journey by visiting the Assi Ghat, a picturesque location on the banks of the Ganges River. Take a boat ride to witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti and soak in the spiritual energy of this holy city.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Kashi Vishwanath Temple (1-2 hours, free)
  • Sarnath (3-4 hours, free)
  • Manikarnika Ghat (1-2 hours, free)
  • Ramnagar Fort and Museum (2-3 hours, INR 15-20 per person)
  • Banaras Hindu University (4-5 hours, free)
  • Assi Ghat (1-2 hours, free)

  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 15-20 per person

Useful Tips

If you have more time, you can explore the various street markets of Varanasi like the Vishwanath Gali and Thatheri Bazar. You can also take part in the morning boat ride on the Ganges River to witness the sunrise. If you have less time, you can skip Banaras Hindu University and explore other ghats like Dasaswamedh, Harishchandra or Tulsi.

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