Start your day by visiting the stunning Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the oldest and most famous temples in India. Spend some time admiring the intricate carvings and taking in the spiritual atmosphere. Then, head to the Dashashwamedh Ghat for a boat ride on the holy River Ganges. Here, you can witness the daily aarti ceremony, a stunning display of devotion as Hindu priests pay homage to the river goddess. Make sure to wander through the nearby old alleys, full of local shops, markets, and the occasional cow. Finally, end the day with a visit to the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, another holy site renowned for its peaceful ambiance and architecture.
Start your day with a visit to the Manikarnika Ghat, a place where Hindus believe that a cremation brings salvation to the soul. Though it might seem overwhelming, it's a fascinating window into one of the most important beliefs in India. Then, walk to the nearby Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, where you can admire the collection of sculptures, paintings, and manuscripts of various Indian art forms. Take a break and grab lunch at Deena Chat Bhandar, a busy street food joint known for its delectable chaats, before diving into the meandering lanes of the Varanasi Silk Emporium, where artisans weave the famous Banarasi saris. Wrap up the day by visiting Assi Ghat, another beautiful ghat where you can watch the sun set over the river while enjoying a boat ride and a cup of chai.
If you have extra time, you can add a visit to the Tulsi Manas Temple, where magnificent marble carvings depict scenes from the Ramayana. Or, if you are interested in musical traditions, check out the week-long Sankat Mochan Sangeet Samaroh festival in July, where India's best classical musicians gather to perform. However, If you are short on time, you could skip the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum and instead spend more time exploring the old alleys around Dashashwamedh Ghat.