Welcome to Varanasi! Start your day by checking into a hotel and freshening up. In the morning, take a walk along the ghats of the holy Ganges river, witnessing the spiritual rituals and activities. Afternoon can be spent exploring the narrow lanes of Varanasi, known as the old city, and visiting the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple. In the evening, experience the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat, where priests perform rituals by the river, accompanied by the chanting of hymns and the lighting of lamps.
On this day, visit Sarnath, the place where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon. Explore the Dhamek Stupa, the Ashoka Pillar, and the Archaeological Museum to delve into the rich history and spirituality of Buddhism. In the afternoon, savor the flavors of Varanasi by indulging in local cuisine. Try the famous Benarasi paan, malaiyyo (a winter delicacy), and mouth-watering chaats at popular street food joints.
Start your morning with a serene boat ride on the Ganges, witnessing the sunrise and admiring the ghats from a different perspective. Afterward, head to Banaras Hindu University (BHU), one of the largest residential universities in Asia. Visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, which houses an impressive collection of art, sculptures, and archaeological artifacts. Spend the evening exploring the campus and attending cultural events if available.
Today, visit the historic Ramnagar Fort, situated on the eastern bank of the Ganges. Explore its grand architecture, museum, and the vintage collection of royal carriages. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the intricate art of silk weaving. Visit a traditional silk weaving center to observe the process and learn about the rich tradition and craftsmanship behind Varanasi's famous silk sarees.
Explore more of Banaras Hindu University (BHU) by visiting its main campus, which includes the Vishwanath Temple, New Vishwanath Temple (Birla Temple), and the Tulsi Manas Temple. In the afternoon, visit the Sankat Mochan Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman. Experience the peaceful ambiance of this temple and indulge in some delicious prasad (devotional offering).
Embark on a food trail to explore the diverse culinary delights of Varanasi. Sample dishes like baati chokha, litti chokha, kachori sabzi, and thandai, among others. In the afternoon, indulge in some retail therapy by exploring the vibrant local markets. Dashashwamedh Gali, Thatheri Bazaar, and Godowlia Market offer a wide range of items, including silk products, handicrafts, and Banarasi sarees.
On your last day in Varanasi, start early to witness the mesmerizing sunrise during a boat ride on the Ganges. Observe the city waking up and the ghats bustling with pilgrims and locals. After the boat ride, enjoy a final stroll through the markets or indulge in some relaxation at a spa or wellness center. Depart from Varanasi with beautiful memories of the spiritual and cultural capital of India.
While exploring Varanasi, be sure to visit the hidden gems that are often overlooked by tourists. Discover the charm of Manikarnika Ghat, one of the oldest and most sacred cremation grounds, where Hindu believers believe attaining moksha (salvation) is possible. Explore the offbeat Assi Ghat, known for its serene ambiance and yoga centers. Don't miss out on authentic local street food like malaiyyo, kachori sabzi, and the famous Banarasi paan, available at various street stalls throughout the city.
For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.