Begin your day by visiting the famous Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple is one of the most important religious sites in India and is visited by thousands of devotees every day. The temple features a mix of Hindu and Islamic architecture and is especially beautiful during its evening aarti ceremony. Please note that non-Hindus are not allowed inside the main temple.
Following your visit to the temple, head to the Sarnath Museum, which is located just a short drive away. Here, you'll learn about the rich history of Buddhism in Sarnath, one of the four holy sites of Buddhism. The museum houses thousands of artifacts and ancient sculptures, including the famous Ashoka Pillar and Lion Capital of Ashoka.
End your first day in Kashi by visiting the Dashashwamedh Ghat, which is famous for its evening aarti ceremony. This elaborate Hindu ritual involves the lighting of lamps and the chanting of prayers, which creates a magical atmosphere. Take a boat ride along the Ganges River to experience the ceremony from a unique perspective.
Start your second day by visiting the Assi Ghat, which is one of the oldest and most famous ghats in Varanasi. This ghat is especially popular during the early morning hours, when locals come to take a dip in the Ganges River. Take a stroll along the ghat and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
After your visit to Assi Ghat, head to the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum to learn about the rich art and cultural heritage of Kashi and India as a whole. The museum houses a diverse collection of artifacts, including ancient sculptures, paintings, and textiles. Be sure to check out the impressive collection of paintings by famous Indian artists.
End your day by returning to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple to witness its morning aarti ceremony. This beautiful ritual involves the offering of flowers and incense to the deity and creates a peaceful and meditative atmosphere. Make sure to arrive early to avoid the crowds.
If you have more time in Kashi, consider visiting other popular sites like the Manikarnika Ghat, Ramnagar Fort, and the Tulsi Manas Temple. If you have less time, consider skipping the Sarnath Museum and Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum.