Start your day early and catch a morning flight or train from Delhi to Varanasi. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Enjoy the aerial views of the Indian landscape as you travel to the spiritual city of Varanasi.
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Arrive in Varanasi and head straight to the famous Ghats (riverfront steps) on the banks of the Ganges River. Start at Dashashwamedh Ghat, one of the most prominent and centrally located Ghats in Varanasi. Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony, a spiritual ritual performed every evening.
Estimated cost: Free admission. Time spent: 2 hours.
Take a short journey from Varanasi to Sarnath, a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site. Visit the Dhamek Stupa, where Buddha is believed to have given his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. Explore the ruins of ancient monasteries and the Sarnath Museum, which houses a rich collection of Buddhist artifacts.
Estimated cost: Transportation (taxi or auto-rickshaw) - INR 200-300. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
Leave Varanasi and head towards Mathura, the birthplace of Lord Krishna. Visit the Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi temple complex, which marks the exact birthplace of Lord Krishna. Explore the various temples and shrines dedicated to Lord Krishna in the vicinity.
Estimated cost: Transportation (train or taxi) - INR 500-700. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
From Mathura, proceed to Vrindavan, a town closely associated with Lord Krishna's childhood and youth. Visit the famous Banke Bihari Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna and known for its lively atmosphere and devotional songs. Explore other nearby temples, such as the Prem Mandir and ISKCON Temple.
Estimated cost: Transportation (auto-rickshaw) - INR 100-200. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
End your day by traveling back to Delhi from Vrindavan. You can choose to take a train or hire a taxi for a comfortable journey.
Estimated cost: Transportation (train or taxi) - INR 500-700. Time spent: 3-4 hours.
While exploring Varanasi, don't miss out on visiting the hidden gem known as Assi Ghat. It is a quieter and less crowded Ghat, perfect for experiencing the serene side of Varanasi. You can also take a boat ride along the Ganges River for a unique perspective.
When in Mathura, make sure to visit the Govardhan Hill, a sacred site associated with Lord Krishna. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and holds great religious significance.