Trip to Varanasi - 6-Day Itinerary

Saturday, September 2: Arrival in Varanasi

Welcome to Varanasi! Upon arrival, check-in to your hotel and freshen up. In the morning, head to the revered Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Afterward, take a boat ride on the sacred River Ganges to experience the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat. As the evening sets in, explore the bustling streets of the old city, known for their vibrant markets and delicious street food.

• Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Entrance is free, Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
• Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat: Free, Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
• Exploring the Old City: Cost varies based on personal expenses, Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours

Sunday, September 3: Cultural Exploration

Start your day with a visit to the Sarnath Archaeological Museum, where you can witness ancient artifacts and sculptures related to Buddhism. Afterward, explore the ruins of the ancient site of Sarnath, where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon. In the afternoon, visit the Banaras Hindu University, one of the largest residential universities in Asia, and explore its beautiful campus. In the evening, witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at the Assi Ghat, a less crowded spot compared to Dashashwamedh Ghat.

• Sarnath Archaeological Museum: Entrance fee of INR 5 (Indian Nationals) or INR 100 (Foreign Nationals), Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
• Visit to Sarnath Ruins: Entrance fee of INR 2 (Indian Nationals) or INR 100 (Foreign Nationals), Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Banaras Hindu University: Free, Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Ganga Aarti at Assi Ghat: Free, Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours

Monday, September 4: Spiritual Journey

Embark on a spiritual journey by waking up early and taking a boat ride on the Ganges to witness the mesmerizing sunrise. Afterward, visit the famous Manikarnika Ghat, one of the oldest and most sacred cremation grounds in Varanasi. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful Ramnagar Fort, located on the eastern bank of the Ganges. In the evening, attend a classical music and dance performance at the renowned Sankat Mochan Temple.

• Sunrise Boat Ride on the Ganges: Cost varies based on type of boat, Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
• Manikarnika Ghat: Free, Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
• Ramnagar Fort: Entrance fee of INR 15 (Indian Nationals) or INR 200 (Foreign Nationals), Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Classical Music and Dance Performance at Sankat Mochan Temple: Free, Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours

Tuesday, September 5: Varanasi Excursion

Embark on an excursion to Chunar Fort, located around 40 kilometers from Varanasi. Explore the historic fort, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding region. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Vindhyachal Devi Temple, dedicated to Goddess Vindhyavasini. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and seek blessings. Return to Varanasi in the evening and indulge in some shopping for traditional Banarasi sarees and handicrafts.

• Chunar Fort Excursion: Transportation cost varies based on mode of transport, Estimated time spent: 3-4 hours
• Vindhyachal Devi Temple: Free, Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Shopping for Banarasi sarees and handicrafts: Cost varies based on personal expenses, Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Varanasi, make sure to visit the off the beaten path attractions and experience the local favorites. Explore the narrow lanes of Varanasi's old city, known as the galis, to discover hidden temples, traditional shops, and local eateries. Don't miss the opportunity to try the famous Banarasi paan, a betel leaf preparation filled with exotic flavors. Visit the Bharat Mata Temple, dedicated to Mother India, which houses a huge relief map of India made of marble. Take a leisurely walk along the ghats during sunrise or sunset to truly absorb the spiritual ambiance of Varanasi.

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