Two-Day Itinerary in Banaras

Saturday, September 30: Exploring the Spiritual Hub

Start your trip to Banaras by immersing yourself in the spiritual aura of this ancient city. In the morning, head to the Dashashwamedh Ghat, one of the oldest and most prominent ghats on the banks of the Ganges. Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony, where priests perform rituals accompanied by chanting and music.

In the afternoon, visit the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Marvel at the intricate architecture and experience the spiritual energy within its premises. Afterward, take a boat ride along the Ganges River to witness the ghats and ghats of Banaras from a unique perspective.

As the evening sets in, explore the narrow lanes of the old city, known as the "galis." Indulge in local street food delights like kachoris, chaats, and lassi. Don't miss visiting the Manikarnika Ghat, a cremation ground that holds great significance in Hindu mythology.

• Dashashwamedh Ghat: Free, 2 hours
• Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
• Boat Ride on the Ganges: INR 200-300 (approx.), 1 hour
• Exploring the Old City: Budget for street food, 2-3 hours
• Manikarnika Ghat: Free, 1 hour

Restaurants

• The Brown Bread Bakery: Enjoy a scrumptious breakfast at The Brown Bread Bakery, known for its freshly baked bread and pastries. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
• Open Hand Cafe: For lunch, head to Open Hand Cafe, a cozy cafe offering a variety of healthy and organic options. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
• Mishra's: Indulge in a delightful dinner at Mishra's, a popular restaurant known for its authentic Banarasi cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.

Sunday, October 1: Cultural Immersion and Sarnath

On the second day, delve deeper into Banaras's rich cultural heritage. Begin your morning with a visit to the Banaras Hindu University (BHU). Stroll through its sprawling campus, visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan museum, and admire the beautiful architecture.

In the afternoon, venture to the nearby town of Sarnath, where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. Explore the Dhamek Stupa, an important Buddhist monument, and visit the Sarnath Museum, which houses an impressive collection of sculptures and artifacts from the ancient Mauryan period.

As the evening approaches, return to Banaras and take a leisurely walk along the Assi Ghat. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and witness the daily Ganga Aarti performed here. Wrap up your day with a delicious dinner at one of the riverside restaurants.

• Banaras Hindu University: Free, 2-3 hours
• Bharat Kala Bhavan: INR 20 (approx.), 1-2 hours
• Sarnath: Free, transportation cost to Sarnath, 3-4 hours
• Sarnath Museum: INR 10 (approx.), 1 hour
• Assi Ghat: Free, 1-2 hours
• Dinner at Riverside Restaurant: Budget as per preference, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Banaras, make sure to visit the off the beaten path attractions and places cherished by locals. One such hidden gem is the Ramnagar Fort, located on the opposite side of the Ganges. It is a beautiful riverside fort with a museum that offers insights into the history and culture of Banaras.

Another local favorite is the Tulsi Manas Mandir, a temple dedicated to Lord Rama. The walls of the temple are adorned with verses from the Hindu epic Ramayana, making it an important cultural landmark.

For a tranquil escape, head to the beautiful Sarnath Deer Park, where you can relax amidst nature and spot deer roaming freely. It is a serene and peaceful place away from the bustling city.

These hidden gems and local favorites provide a deeper understanding of Banaras's rich heritage and offer unique experiences beyond the popular tourist attractions.