Begin your honeymoon in Banaras by flying into Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport. From there, check into one of the romantic hotels available for your stay. You can use KAYAK to find the best hotel deals. Spend the morning exploring the beautiful temples Banaras is renowned for, such as the Kashi Vishwanath Temple and the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple. In the afternoon, take a boat ride along the sacred Ganges River, witnessing the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony as the sun sets. In the evening, savor a romantic dinner at a riverside restaurant, enjoying local delicacies.
Start your day with a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges River, witnessing the city come alive with spiritual activities. Afterward, visit the magnificent Banaras Hindu University, known for its serene campus and the Bharat Kala Bhavan museum, housing a remarkable collection of Indian art. Enjoy a traditional Banarasi lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, explore the narrow alleys of the old city, wandering through the colorful markets and admiring the intricate craftsmanship of the local artisans. End the day with an evening walk along the ghats, immersing yourself in the magical atmosphere.
Embark on a spiritual journey by visiting some of the most revered temples in Banaras. Start with a visit to the Durga Temple, known for its intricate architecture and peaceful surroundings. Afterward, head to the Tulsi Manas Temple, wherein verses from the Ramayana are inscribed on the walls. Enjoy a vegetarian lunch at a local ashram. In the afternoon, visit the famous Sarnath, where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. Explore the ancient ruins, the Dhamek Stupa, and the Sarnath Museum before returning to Banaras. In the evening, experience a calming Ganga Aarti ceremony at a serene ghat.
On your last day in Banaras, explore more of the city's attractions. Start with a visit to the Banaras Ghats, where you can witness fascinating rituals and experience the vibrant culture. Take a rickshaw ride through the bustling streets, stopping at the famous marketplaces, such as the Godowlia Market and the Vishwanath Gali. Enjoy a traditional thali for lunch, comprising a variety of local dishes. In the afternoon, learn about the traditional silk weaving process at a silk center and shop for exquisite Banarasi silk sarees. End your day by enjoying a romantic sunset cruise on the Ganges River.
When in Banaras, make sure to visit Assi Ghat, a peaceful ghat away from the crowds, offering a tranquil ambiance for meditation or yoga sessions. Another hidden gem is the Ramnagar Fort, located on the other side of the Ganges River. This stunning fort showcases a blend of Indian and Islamic architecture and hosts a museum exhibiting ancient artifacts. Locals also enjoy exploring the offbeat neighborhoods of Bengali Tola and Kedar Ghat, where you can experience the local way of life and taste authentic street food. Don't miss indulging in the mouthwatering Banarasi paan, a betel leaf preparation with exotic flavors.