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7-Day Itinerary: Varanasi, Agra, Haridwar, Rishikesh

Tuesday, September 26: Varanasi

In the morning, witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat, where priests perform rituals with fire as an offering to the River Ganges. Afterward, explore the narrow lanes of Varanasi, known as the oldest living city, and visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. In the afternoon, take a boat ride along the Ganges to witness the ghats and observe the daily rituals. In the evening, enjoy a stroll along the banks of the river and savor local street food.

  • Dashashwamedh Ghat: Free, 2 hours
  • Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Free, 1 hour
  • Boat Ride on Ganges: INR 200-300, 2 hours
  • Exploring Ghats and Street Food: INR 300-500, 2 hours
Wednesday, September 27: Agra

Start your morning with a visit to the iconic Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Marvel at its intricate architecture and learn about its history. Afterward, explore the Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which offers stunning views of the Taj Mahal. In the afternoon, visit the Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah, also known as the Baby Taj, and explore the local markets. In the evening, enjoy a sunset view of the Taj Mahal from Mehtab Bagh.

  • Taj Mahal: INR 1300 (foreign tourists), 2-3 hours
  • Agra Fort: INR 600 (foreign tourists), 2 hours
  • Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah: INR 200-300, 1 hour
  • Exploring Local Markets: Variable, 2 hours
  • Sunset at Mehtab Bagh: INR 200-300, 1 hour
Thursday, September 28: Haridwar

Begin your day by attending the Ganga Aarti ceremony at Har Ki Pauri ghat, a spiritual event that takes place during sunrise or sunset. Afterward, visit Mansa Devi Temple, accessible by a cable car ride, and seek blessings. In the afternoon, explore the bustling market of Haridwar and try the famous street food. In the evening, take a dip in the holy Ganges at Har Ki Pauri ghat and witness the floating diyas (earthen lamps).

  • Har Ki Pauri Ghat (Ganga Aarti): Free, 1-2 hours
  • Mansa Devi Temple: INR 170 (cable car ride), Free entry, 1-2 hours
  • Exploring Haridwar Market: Variable, 2 hours
  • Dip in the Ganges: Free, 1 hour
Friday, September 29: Rishikesh

Embark on a spiritual journey by visiting the iconic Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula suspension bridges in Rishikesh. Attend the Ganga Aarti ceremony at Parmarth Niketan Ashram, where you can witness spiritual rituals and chants. In the afternoon, visit the Beatles Ashram, also known as Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram, which gained fame when The Beatles stayed here. Take a peaceful walk along the banks of the Ganges and explore the cafes and shops in the evening.

  • Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula: Free, 2 hours
  • Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan Ashram: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Beatles Ashram: INR 150-200, 1-2 hours
  • Exploring Cafes and Shops: Variable, 2 hours
Saturday, September 30: Varanasi

Start your day by experiencing a boat ride during sunrise on the Ganges to witness the serene beauty of Varanasi. Afterward, visit Sarnath, an important Buddhist pilgrimage site, known for its ancient ruins and the Dhamek Stupa. In the afternoon, explore the Dhamekh Stupa and visit the Sarnath Museum to learn about the history and artifacts. In the evening, attend another Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat.

  • Sunrise Boat Ride on Ganges: INR 200-300, 2 hours
  • Sarnath and Dhamek Stupa: Free, 2 hours
  • Sarnath Museum: INR 10-20 (Indian citizens), INR 200 (foreigners), 1 hour
  • Evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat: Free, 1-2 hours
Sunday, October 1: Rishikesh

Indulge in the beauty of Rishikesh by starting your day with a yoga or meditation session in one of the ashrams. Afterward, visit the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, located amidst the lush greenery of the Himalayas. Enjoy a serene nature walk to the nearby waterfall and relax by the river. In the evening, participate in a Ganga Aarti ceremony at Triveni Ghat.

  • Yoga/Meditation Session in Ashram: Variable, 2 hours
  • Neelkanth Mahadev Temple: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Nature Walk and Waterfall: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat: Free, 1-2 hours
Monday, October 2: Varanasi

On your last day, explore the hidden gems of Varanasi. Visit the Assi Ghat in the morning, known for its peaceful atmosphere and the Assi Devi Temple. Take a boat ride to the Manikarnika Ghat, one of the main cremation ghats, and witness the rituals of life and death. Spend your afternoon visiting the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum and exploring the Banaras Hindu University campus. End your trip by enjoying a sunset boat ride on the Ganges.

  • Assi Ghat and Assi Devi Temple: Free, 2 hours
  • Manikarnika Ghat: Free, 1 hour
  • Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum: INR 10-20 (Indian citizens), INR 200 (foreigners), 1-2 hours
  • Banaras Hindu University: Free, 2 hours
  • Sunset Boat Ride on Ganges: INR 200-300, 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Varanasi, don't miss the chance to visit the hidden gem of Chunar Fort, located about 45 kilometers away. It offers panoramic views of the Ganges and has a rich historical significance. Another local favorite is the Shri Kashi Vishwanath Panchganga Ghat, where five rivers meet, and taking a dip here is considered auspicious. These offbeat attractions offer a unique perspective on the region's history and culture.

For hotel and flight prices, click here.

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