3-Day Cultural Immersion Itinerary in Banaras - June 2023

  1. Day 1: Explore the Ghats
    10 minutes (3.2 km) from the railway station

    Visit the Dashashwamedh Ghat and witness the awe-inspiring Ganga Aarti, a beautiful ritual where priests offer prayers with fire, flowers, and incense. Take a boat ride along the ghats and see devotees taking a dip in the holy river. Explore Manikarnika Ghat, the biggest cremation ground in Banaras, and its surroundings. Visit Bharat Mata Temple, built in the early 20th century, dedicated to Mother India.

  2. Day 2: Temples and Spiritual Places
    15 minutes (4.5 km) from Dashashwamedh Ghat

    Early morning, visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most visited temples in India. Walk through the narrow alleys of the old city and explore the many temples dedicated to different gods and goddesses like Tulsi Manas Mandir, Durga Temple, Annapurna Temple, and more. Soak in the spiritual atmosphere of Sankat Mochan Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman.

  3. Day 3: Sarnath and Silk Weaving
    30 minutes (10 km) from Kashi Vishwanath Temple

    Head to Sarnath, an important Buddhist place where Gautam Buddha gave his first sermon. Visit the Dhamek Stupa and the Chaukhandi Stupa, both of which are significant Buddhist monuments. Later, watch the intricate art of weaving silk at Banaras Silk Weaving Center, and purchase a few souvenirs. End your day with some mouth-watering Banarasi chaat from the famous Kashi Chat Bhandar.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Dashashwamedh Ghat (1-2 hours, free)
  • Bharat Mata Temple (1-2 hours, free)
  • Boat Ride (1-2 hours, INR 200-500)
  • Kashi Vishwanath Temple (1-2 hours, free)
  • Sankat Mochan Temple (1-2 hours, free)
  • Tulsi Manas Mandir (1 hour, free)
  • Durga Temple (30-45 mins, free)
  • Annapurna Temple (30-45 mins, free)
  • Sarnath (3-4 hours, INR 50 for Indian nationals, INR 500 for foreigners)
  • Banaras Silk Weaving Center (1 hour, free)
  • Kashi Chat Bhandar (30 mins, INR 50-100)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 300-700

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider taking a day trip to Allahabad and visiting the Triveni Sangam, the place where three rivers meet. You can also explore the Benares Hindu University and Museum, which showcases the rich cultural heritage of Benaras. If you have less time, skip the Banaras Silk Weaving Center or Sankat Mochan Temple. Keep in mind that the weather in June can be hot and humid, so wear light cotton clothes, stay hydrated, and carry sunscreen and sunglasses.

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