Start the day with a peaceful boat ride on the Ganges River at sunrise. You can observe the mesmerizing views of the Ghats and witness the morning rituals performed by locals. The boat ride starts from the Dashashwamedh Ghat, which is one of the most important Ghats in Varanasi. Don't forget to take your camera and capture the beautiful views of Varanasi from the river.
After the boat ride, take a leisurely walk through the narrow lanes of Varanasi to experience its vibrant culture and traditions. You will find bustling bazaars, local shops, and numerous shrines, temples, and ashrams. Be prepared to immerse yourself in the local life, smell the fragrances of flowers and spices and interact with the friendly locals. Don't forget to try the street food, which ranges from chaat, samosas, and lassi to paan and pedas.
After lunch, head to Sarnath, which is a revered Buddhist site, located about 14 km from Varanasi. Here, you can witness the Dhamek Stupa and other ancient ruins, and learn about Lord Buddha's first sermon that he delivered in the deer park. Explore the archaeological museum, which houses a rich collection of artifacts related to Buddhism. Spend some peaceful time meditating in the serene surroundings.
End your day by attending the grand Ganga Aarti ceremony that takes place every evening on Dashashwamedh Ghat. The Aarti is a Hindu ritual of offering prayers to the holy river Ganges. The ceremony is accompanied by the sound of ringing bells, musical instruments and chanting. Witness the breathtaking spectacle of thousands of lamps and candles that are lit and float on the Ganges, creating mystical reflections on the water.
On day 2, start off by exploring the numerous temples that Varanasi has to offer. Some of the famous ones include the Kashi Vishwanath temple, Durga temple, and Sankat Mochan temple. Kashi Vishwanath temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the holiest shrines in Hinduism. Be prepared to be awed by the intricate architecture and beautiful interiors of these temples.
In the evening, attend a classical music and dance recital, which is an integral part of Varanasi's cultural heritage. The recital features renowned musicians and dancers who showcase their talents and skills. You can choose from a variety of venues such as the Sankat Mochan temple or the famous Bharat Kala Bhavan museum. Be prepared to appreciate the art form that has been passed down for generations.
If you have more time, you can add the following places to your itinerary:
If you have less time, you can skip the classical dance and music recital and spend more time visiting the temples and shrines of Varanasi.