A 3-Day City Experience Itinerary for Banaras in May 2023

  1. Day 1: Assi Ghat
    15 minutes (2.3 km) from Varanasi Junction

    Assi Ghat is a popular ghat located at the confluence of Ganges and Assi rivers. It is a great place to witness the morning aarti and also offers boat rides and yoga classes.

  2. Day 1: Banaras Hindu University
    10 minutes (2.2 km) from Assi Ghat

    One of the largest residential universities in Asia, BHU is known for its beautiful campus and holy pond. It also houses the Bharat Kala Bhavan museum which has a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, and manuscripts.

  3. Day 1: Kashi Vishwanath Temple
    15 minutes (2.5 km) from BHU

    A prominent Lord Shiva temple, Kashi Vishwanath is one of the twelve jyotirlingas in India. It is believed that a visit to this temple can wash away all sins. The temple is often crowded but it's worth a visit for its historical and religious significance.

  4. Day 2: Sarnath
    30 minutes (10 km) from Varanasi Junction

    Located just outside the city, Sarnath is a historical site where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. The place has several ancient stupas, monasteries, and museums showcasing Buddhist art and culture.

  5. Day 2: Ramnagar Fort and Museum
    20 minutes (7.9 km) from Sarnath

    Built in the 18th century, Ramnagar Fort is a beautiful structure made of sandstone and marble. It also houses a museum with a collection of vintage cars, weapons, and artifacts belonging to the royal family.

  6. Day 3: Manikarnika Ghat
    15 minutes (2.4 km) from Varanasi Junction

    Manikarnika Ghat is one of the oldest and busiest ghats in Varanasi. It is believed that a person who is cremated here attains salvation. Visitors can take a boat ride to witness the cremation rituals or take a stroll around the ghat.

  7. Day 3: Dashashwamedh Ghat
    10 minutes (1.4 km) from Manikarnika Ghat

    One of the most popular ghats in Varanasi, Dashashwamedh Ghat is known for its evening aarti ceremony which is a mesmerizing experience. The ghat also offers boat rides and street food stalls selling local delicacies.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Assi Ghat (1-2 hours, free)
  • Banaras Hindu University (2-3 hours, free)
  • Kashi Vishwanath Temple (1-2 hours, free)
  • Sarnath (2-3 hours, ₹10 for Indian visitors, ₹250 for foreigners)
  • Ramnagar Fort and Museum (1-2 hours, ₹15 for Indian visitors, ₹200 for foreigners)
  • Manikarnika Ghat (1-2 hours, free)
  • Dashashwamedh Ghat (1-2 hours, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: ₹25-270 for foreigners, ₹10-15 for Indian visitors
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