Visit the holy ruins of Sarnath, one of the most sacred places in Buddhism where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. Explore the ancient Dhamekh Stupa, a magnificent site with intricate carvings and designs. Other attractions include the Archaeological Museum, which houses numerous exhibits from Buddhist history, including rare manuscripts and artefacts.
Get ready for a full day of sightseeing! Start with a refreshing morning boat ride in river Ganga and witness the stunning views of sunrise at Assi Ghat. Visit the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple and the Tulsi Manas Temple which are known for their beautiful architecture and religious importance. In the evening, witness the famous Ganga Aarti at the Dashashwamedh Ghat, a mesmerising spectacle that cannot be missed!
Head over to Ramnagar Fort, an 18th-century fortress located on the banks of river Ganga. The fort houses a museum that exhibits vintage cars, palanquins, armoury, and musical instruments. Witness the daily practice of feeding thousands of monkeys at the Monkey Temple, also known as Durga Temple. Spend your evening shopping for souvenirs and exploring the night markets in Varanasi.
Wrap up your trip with a relaxing day at the magical Wellness Centre Mandara Spa, that offers Ayurvedic therapies, massages and yoga sessions. You can get a rejuvenating full body massage or indulge in a Shirodhara, a relaxation technique where warm oil is poured over the forehead. End your trip with a visit to Bharat Mata Temple, one of the most unique temples in Varanasi that pays tribute to Mother India.
If you have more time, you can visit other popular places like Manikarnika Ghat, Alamgir Mosque, and Benaras Hindu University. For foodies, try some local delicacies like chaat, lassi and thandai. If you have less time, you can skip Ramnagar Fort and Museum and spend some extra time shopping in Varanasi. Don't forget to wear comfortable shoes and carry a hat and sunscreen lotion, as the weather can get hot and humid in September.