5-Day Itinerary for Varanasi in August 2023

1. Day 1: Dashashwamedh Ghat
   20 minutes (4.5 km) from Varanasi Junction Railway Station

   Start your day by taking a boat ride during sunrise to witness the mesmerizing view of the sun rising over the Ganges River. After breakfast, visit the Dashashwamedh Ghat, the busiest and oldest ghat in Varanasi, to experience the famous Ganga aarti, a Hindu ritual of worshiping the river goddess Ganga. In the evening, take a stroll along the ghat to witness the evening aarti ceremony.

2. Day 2: Sarnath
   30 minutes (10 km) from Dashashwamedh Ghat

   Today, head to Sarnath, the birthplace of Buddhism, to explore some of the most significant Buddhist sites in India. Visit the Dhamekh Stupa, the Mulagandha Kuti Vihar, and the Sarnath Museum to learn about the history and culture of Buddhism. In the evening, relax at one of the nearby cafes to enjoy the serene ambiance of Sarnath.

3. Day 3: Banaras Hindu University and Ramnagar Fort
   20 minutes (6.5 km) from Sarnath

   Start your day by visiting Banaras Hindu University, one of the largest residential universities in Asia. Stroll through the lush green campus and visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum to explore a vast collection of Indian art and artifacts. In the evening, head to Ramnagar Fort, a historic fortification on the eastern bank of the Ganges River, to witness the grandeur of the royal palace and museum.

4. Day 4: Manikarnika Ghat and Kashi Vishwanath Temple
   25 minutes (5.4 km) from Ramnagar Fort

   Today, visit the Manikarnika Ghat, one of the oldest and most important ghats in Varanasi, to witness the rituals of cremation. Afterward, head to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, also known as the Golden Temple, to pay your respects to Lord Shiva. Take a walk through the narrow lanes of the old city to explore the local markets and street food stalls.

5. Day 5: Assi Ghat and Boat Ride at Sunrise
   25 minutes (6.8 km) from Kashi Vishwanath Temple

   On the last day of your trip, visit the Assi Ghat, the southernmost ghat in Varanasi, to enjoy the peaceful ambiance and serene surroundings. Take a yoga class or meditation session at one of the nearby ashrams. In the morning, take a boat ride to witness the stunning sunrise over the Ganges River.

Recommendations

Don't miss out on the opportunity to explore the nearby Chunar Fort, located about 45 km from Varanasi. You can also take a day trip to Allahabad to witness the famous Triveni Sangam, the confluence of three rivers, or visit the nearby city of Ghazipur to explore its rich history and culture.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Dashashwamedh Ghat (2 hours, free)
• Sarnath (4 hours, ₹50)
• Banaras Hindu University and Ramnagar Fort (4 hours, ₹200)
• Manikarnika Ghat and Kashi Vishwanath Temple (3 hours, free)
• Assi Ghat and Boat Ride at Sunrise (2 hours, ₹200)
• Total Estimated Costs: ₹450