Welcome to Varanasi, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and a sacred destination for Hindus. Begin your trip by checking into one of the many family-friendly hotels in the city. You can find the best deals on hotels and flights on Kayak. In the morning, visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Explore the intricate architecture and witness devotees performing rituals. In the afternoon, take a boat ride along the holy Ganges River, where you can witness the evening aarti ceremony. As the evening sets in, stroll through the bustling streets of the old city, known for its vibrant markets and delicious street food.
Embark on a heritage tour of Varanasi to experience its rich history and cultural heritage. Start your morning with a visit to the famous Sarnath, an important Buddhist pilgrimage site. Explore the ruins of ancient monasteries and visit the Dhamek Stupa, where Lord Buddha is said to have given his first sermon. In the afternoon, head to the Ramnagar Fort, situated on the banks of the Ganges River. Marvel at the exquisite architecture and explore the museum showcasing vintage cars, swords, and royal artifacts. In the evening, enjoy a mesmerizing classical music and dance performance at the Bharat Kala Bhavan.
Immerse yourself in the rich cultural traditions of Varanasi on this day. Begin your morning with a visit to the Banaras Hindu University, one of the largest residential universities in Asia. Explore the beautiful campus and visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, home to a vast collection of Indian art and artifacts. In the afternoon, participate in a yoga and meditation session at a local ashram to rejuvenate your mind and body. In the evening, witness a mesmerizing Kathak dance performance, a classical dance form native to Uttar Pradesh.
Indulge in the culinary delights and shopping experiences that Varanasi has to offer on your final day. Begin your morning with a traditional breakfast of kachori and jalebi at a local eatery. After breakfast, explore the vibrant markets of Varanasi, such as the Vishwanath Gali and Thatheri Bazaar, known for their silk sarees, handicrafts, and brassware. In the afternoon, savor the flavors of Banarasi cuisine with a thali lunch at a popular local restaurant. End your trip with a relaxing evening boat ride along the Ganges River, where you can witness the beautiful Ganga aarti ceremony once again.
While in Varanasi, make sure to explore the lesser-known attractions and experiences loved by the locals. Visit the Manikarnika Ghat, the main cremation ghat of Varanasi, to witness an important aspect of Hindu rituals. Take a peaceful walk along the Assi Ghat, known for its serene ambiance and breathtaking views of the Ganges River. Don't miss out on trying the famous Banarasi paan, a betel leaf preparation filled with various mouth-watering ingredients, for a unique and flavorful experience.