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7-Day Itinerary: Vrindavan, Mathura, Varanasi

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Wednesday, December 20, 2023: Arrival in Vrindavan

Welcome to Vrindavan, a sacred city known for its association with Lord Krishna. In the morning, visit the iconic Bankey Bihari Mandir and participate in the early morning Aarti. Afterward, explore the vibrant streets of Vrindavan and indulge in some delicious local delicacies. In the afternoon, make your way to the ISKCON Temple and immerse yourself in the devotional atmosphere. End the day with a serene boat ride along the Yamuna River during sunset.

  • Bankey Bihari Mandir: Entrance fee: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • ISKCON Temple: Entrance fee: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Yamuna River Boat Ride: Cost: Approx. INR 100, Time spent: 1 hour
Thursday, December 21, 2023: Mathura Excursion

Embark on a day trip to Mathura, the birthplace of Lord Krishna. Start your morning at the Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple, where Lord Krishna was born. Explore other significant temples in the vicinity, such as Dwarkadheesh Temple and Vishram Ghat. Enjoy a traditional lunch at a local eatery. In the afternoon, visit the Mathura Museum to learn more about the rich cultural heritage of the region. Spend your evening attending the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Vishram Ghat.

  • Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple: Entrance fee: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Dwarkadheesh Temple: Entrance fee: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Vishram Ghat: Entrance fee: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Mathura Museum: Entrance fee: INR 25 (Indian citizens), INR 300 (foreign nationals), Time spent: 1-2 hours
Friday, December 22, 2023: Explore Vrindavan

Spend the day discovering the charm of Vrindavan. Start your morning at Prem Mandir, a stunning temple dedicated to Radha and Krishna. Immerse yourself in the intricate marble architecture and beautiful gardens. Afterward, head to the sacred Govardhan Hill, a place of pilgrimage. Enjoy a scenic walk around the hill and visit the famous Mansi Ganga Lake. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Rangji Temple, known for its South Indian architectural style. As the evening approaches, attend the soul-stirring Raslila performance.

  • Prem Mandir: Entrance fee: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Govardhan Hill: Entrance fee: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Mansi Ganga Lake: Entrance fee: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Rangji Temple: Entrance fee: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Raslila Performance: Entrance fee: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Saturday, December 23, 2023: Journey to Varanasi

Today, leave Vrindavan and travel to the spiritual city of Varanasi. In the morning, take a flight or train from Vrindavan to Varanasi (flight and train prices can be checked here). After arriving in Varanasi, head to the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple and offer prayers. Experience the evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, where you can witness the mesmerizing rituals and float diyas in the sacred river.

  • Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Entrance fee: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat: Entrance fee: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Sunday, December 24, 2023: Varanasi City Tour

Get ready to explore the hidden gems of Varanasi. Start your morning with a sunrise boat ride along the Ganges River, witnessing the spiritual rituals and bathing ghats come to life. Afterward, visit the Sarnath Archaeological Site, where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon. Explore the ancient ruins and visit the Dhamek Stupa. In the afternoon, delve into the narrow alleys of Varanasi's Old City, visiting the famous Kachori Gali for a delightful street food experience. End your day at the serene Tulsi Manas Temple.

  • Sunrise Boat Ride: Cost: Approx. INR 200, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Sarnath Archaeological Site: Entrance fee: INR 30 (Indian citizens), INR 300 (foreign nationals), Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Tulsi Manas Temple: Entrance fee: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Monday, December 25, 2023: Varanasi Spiritual Experience

Immerse yourself in the spiritual essence of Varanasi. In the morning, visit the Assi Ghat and participate in a yoga and meditation session by the river. Explore the famous Banaras Hindu University campus and visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum. In the afternoon, take a serene walk along the ghats, witnessing the rituals and engaging in a boat ride. As the evening approaches, attend the magical Ganga Aarti at Assi Ghat.

  • Yoga and Meditation at Assi Ghat: Cost: Donation-based, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Banaras Hindu University: Entrance fee: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum: Entrance fee: INR 10 (Indian citizens), INR 200 (foreign nationals), Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Boat Ride along the Ghats: Cost: Approx. INR 500, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Ganga Aarti at Assi Ghat: Entrance fee: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Tuesday, December 26, 2023: Departure from Varanasi

It's time to bid farewell to the enchanting city of Varanasi. Take some time in the morning to explore the local markets, such as the bustling Vishwanath Lane and Thatheri Bazaar, where you can shop for traditional handicrafts and souvenirs. Before leaving, make a visit to the iconic Manikarnika Ghat, one of the most sacred cremation ghats in Varanasi, to understand the cycle of life and death. Finally, head to the airport or railway station for your onward journey.

  • Vishwanath Lane: Shopping cost: Varies, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Thatheri Bazaar: Shopping cost: Varies, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Manikarnika Ghat: Entrance fee: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Vrindavan, don't miss the lesser-known Nidhivan, where it is believed that Lord Krishna performs his Raslila dance every night. In Mathura, visit the quaint village of Gokul, associated with Lord Krishna's childhood. In Varanasi, take a walk through the enchanting streets of the Bengali Tola area, known for its traditional silk weaving. Discover these off the beaten path attractions and experience the true essence of these sacred cities like a local.

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