9-Day Varanasi Itinerary

1. Day 1: Vishwanath Temple
   10 minutes (1.3 km) from Varanasi Junction Railway Station

   Visit this historical and spiritual temple to start your journey in Varanasi and immerse yourself in Indian culture.

2. Day 2: Assi Ghat
   20 minutes (4.2 km) from Vishwanath Temple

   Take a boat ride at sunrise to witness spiritual rituals and soak in the serene atmosphere of this iconic ghat.

3. Day 3: Sarnath
   40 minutes (10 km) from Assi Ghat

   Explore the ruins of an ancient Buddhist center of learning and the dhamekh stupa, the most remarkable monument at this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

4. Day 4: Manikarnika Ghat
   15 minutes (2.9 km) from Sarnath

   Discover the cultural significance of this cremation site and witness the interplay between life and death in Hinduism.

5. Day 5: Dashashwamedh Ghat
   20 minutes (4.3 km) from Manikarnika Ghat

   Observe the beautifully choreographed Ganga aarti and join the crowds of devotees and tourists to absorb the vibrant energy of the city.

6. Day 6: Ramnagar Fort
   45 minutes (14 km) from Dashashwamedh Ghat

   Step back in time and discover the impeccable architecture and royal lifestyle of 17th-century Indian kings with a guided tour of this majestic fort.

7. Day 7: Kashi Vishwanath Temple
   30 minutes (7 km) from Ramnagar Fort

   Marvel at the golden spire of this Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and observe devotees offering milk and holy water to the deity.

8. Day 8: Banaras Hindu University
   30 minutes (9 km) from Kashi Vishwanath Temple

   Explore the sprawling green campus of this prestigious university and visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum for an insightful understanding of Indian art and culture.

9. Day 9: Alamgir Mosque
   20 minutes (4.4 km) from Banaras Hindu University

   End your trip with a visit to the Alamgir Mosque or Beni Madhav Ka Darera, an excellent example of the Mughal architecture that symbolizes India's multicultural heritage.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Vishwanath Temple (1-2 hours, free)
• Assi Ghat (1-2 hours, free)
• Sarnath (2-3 hours, ₹250 for foreigners, ₹15 for Indians)
• Manikarnika Ghat (1 hour, free)
• Dashashwamedh Ghat (1-2 hours, free)
• Ramnagar Fort (2-3 hours, ₹50 for Indians, ₹700 for foreigners)
• Kashi Vishwanath Temple (1-2 hours, free)
• Banaras Hindu University (2-3 hours, free)
• Alamgir Mosque (1 hour, free)
Total Estimated Costs: ₹ 315 for Foreigners, ₹ 60 for Indians

Useful Tips

For a more relaxed experience, skip Sarnath or Ramnagar Fort, which are about an hour's drive from Varanasi, or spend fewer hours at Vishwanath temple and Banaras Hindu University. Book a boat ride for sunrise or sunset in advance to avoid the rush and enjoy better views.