Exploring Banaras: A 3-Day City Experience Itinerary

  1. Day 1: Ghats and Temples
    Starting Location: Your hotel in the city center
    Distance and Time: 6.6 km, 20 minutes drive

    Begin your journey through Banaras with a visit to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. This temple, also known as the Golden Temple, is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the most famous temples in India. After visiting the temple, head to the Dasaswamedh Ghat - the most vibrant and lively place to experience Banaras. Enjoy the evening Aarti ceremony which is performed every day at sunset with music and a grand fire.

  2. Day 2: Historical and Cultural Experiences
    Starting Location: Dasaswamedh Ghat
    Distance and Time: 5.4 km, 25 minutes drive

    Start your day with a visit to the Bharat Mata Temple dedicated to Mother India and get a glimpse of the Indian history and diverse culture at the Jawahar Kala Kendra. Later, explore the famous Banaras Hindu University and visit the New Vishwanath Temple which is dedicated to Lord Shiva and replica of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple.

  3. Day 3: Silk and Local Bazaar
    Starting Location: New Vishwanath Temple
    Distance and Time: 1.9 km, 10 minutes drive

    Witness the process of silk weaving and learn about silk production at the Banaras Silk Weaving Centre and do not forget to buy some beautiful souvenirs. Visit the Manikarnika Ghat, one of the oldest and most sacred ghats in Banaras. End your trip with some shopping at the local bazaar - Golghar, which is famous for its street food and local handicrafts.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Kashi Vishwanath Temple (1-2 hours, free)
  • Dasaswamedh Ghat (2-3 hours, free)
  • Bharat Mata Temple (1-2 hours, free)
  • Jawahar Kala Kendra (1-2 hours, ₹20)
  • Banaras Hindu University (2-3 hours, free)
  • New Vishwanath Temple (1-2 hours, free)
  • Banaras Silk Weaving Centre (1-2 hours, depends on purchase)
  • Manikarnika Ghat (2-3 hours, free)
  • Golghar (2-3 hours, depends on purchase)

  • Total Estimated Costs: ₹20-200 per activity/person

Useful tips

If you have more time, consider visiting the Ramnagar Fort, Sarnath (Buddhist pilgrimage site), and nearby temples. If you have less time, skip the Bharat Mata Temple or Jawahar Kala Kendra. Keep in mind that the best time to visit Banaras is from October to March when the weather is pleasant. Wearing comfortable shoes is advisable as it requires walking through stairs and narrow lanes.

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