5-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Varanasi

1. Day 1: Dashashwamedh Ghat
   20 minutes (6.3 km) from Varanasi Junction Railway Station

   Dashashwamedh Ghat is one of the oldest and most famous ghats in Varanasi. Witness the daily aarti, a Hindu religious ritual, in the evening which is an unforgettable experience.

2. Day 2: Kashi Vishwanath Temple
   15 minutes (3.8 km) from Dashashwamedh Ghat

   This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the most famous and holiest temples in Varanasi. The temple architecture is beautiful, and it attracts devotees from all around the world.

3. Day 3: Sarnath
   30 minutes (12.7 km) from Kashi Vishwanath Temple

   Sarnath is one of the most important Buddhist destinations in the world. Explore the ancient ruins of the Dhamek Stupa, Chaukhandi Stupa, and Mulagandha Kuti Vihar.

4. Day 4: Ramnagar Fort and Museum
   30 minutes (10.2 km) from Sarnath

   Visit the 17th-century Ramnagar Fort and Museum, located on the eastern bank of River Ganges. It houses a collection of vintage cars, swords, guns, and costumes of the royal family.

5. Day 5: Assi Ghat
   45 minutes (8.8 km) from Ramnagar Fort and Museum

   Assi Ghat is situated at the confluence of the Ganga and Assi rivers and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. Enjoy the local delicacies and take a boat ride from Assi Ghat to witness the beautiful views of Varanasi.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Dashashwamedh Ghat (1-2 hours, free)
• Kashi Vishwanath Temple (1-2 hours, free)
• Sarnath (2-3 hours, free)
• Ramnagar Fort and Museum (1-2 hours, INR 50)
• Assi Ghat (1-2 hours, free)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 50

Useful Tips:

If you have more time, consider visiting other ghats like Manikarnika Ghat and Harishchandra Ghat, which are known for their cremation ceremonies. You can also take a day trip to nearby villages like Chunar and explore their forts and temples. If you have less time, you can skip Ramnagar Fort and Museum from the itinerary.