7-Day Mathura and Varanasi Itinerary in May 2023

1. Day 1: Mathura Museum
   15 minutes (2 miles) from Mathura Junction Railway Station

   Explore the rich history and culture of Mathura through exhibits of ancient artifacts and artwork at the Mathura Museum.

2. Day 2: Sri Krishna Janmasthan Temple
   20 minutes (2.6 miles) from Mathura Museum

   Visit the birthplace of Lord Krishna and pay homage to the deity at one of the holiest shrines in Mathura.

3. Day 3: Banaras Hindu University
   3 hours (139 miles) from Sri Krishna Janmasthan Temple

   Get a glimpse of the prestigious Indian university, known for its beautiful campus and world-class research facilities.

4. Day 4: Dashashwamedh Ghat
   15 minutes (2 miles) from Banaras Hindu University

   Witness the spectacular Ganga Aarti at this iconic ghat, a daily ritual of worship offered to the river goddess.

5. Day 5: Sarnath
   30 minutes (6 miles) from Dashashwamedh Ghat

   Explore the sacred Buddhist site where Lord Buddha gave his first teachings after attaining enlightenment.

6. Day 6: Kashi Vishwanath Temple
   15 minutes (2 miles) from Sarnath

   Pay your respects to Lord Shiva at one of the most renowned Hindu temples in Varanasi, known for its architectural beauty and spiritual significance.

7. Day 7: Ramnagar Fort
   30 minutes (6 miles) from Kashi Vishwanath Temple

   Step back in time and admire the grandeur of this 18th-century fort-cum-palace overlooking the Ganges river.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Mathura Museum (2 hours, INR 50)
• Sri Krishna Janmasthan Temple (1.5 hours, free)
• Banaras Hindu University (2 hours, free)
• Dashashwamedh Ghat (1 hour, free)
• Sarnath (2 hours, free)
• Kashi Vishwanath Temple (1 hour, free)
• Ramnagar Fort (1.5 hours, INR 15)

Total Estimated Costs: INR 65

Useful Tips

For an extended trip, consider visiting other noteworthy attractions in the area such as the Yamuna River, Kusum Sarovar, and Manikarnika Ghat. If you only have a few days, prioritize the highlights mentioned in this itinerary. Remember to dress modestly and remove footwear before entering temples.