Travel Dates: October 24-30, 2023
Welcome to Kashi! Start your trip by exploring the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. In the afternoon, take a relaxing boat ride on the sacred River Ganges, witnessing the famous Ganga Aarti ceremony. As the evening sets in, stroll along the buzzing streets of the old city, experiencing the vibrant culture and indulging in local street food.
Embark on a day trip to Sarnath, an important Buddhist pilgrimage site. In the morning, visit the Dhamek Stupa, where Buddha is believed to have given his first sermon. Explore the Sarnath Archaeological Museum and marvel at the ancient art and sculptures found during excavations. Afternoon can be spent visiting the Chaukhandi Stupa and Mulagandhakuti Vihara. In the evening, head back to Kashi and relax at your hotel.
Embark on a guided heritage walk through the narrow lanes of Varanasi's old city. Experience the spiritual energy of Kashi by visiting various ghats along the Ganges, such as Dasaswamedh Ghat and Manikarnika Ghat. Witness the cremation rituals at Manikarnika Ghat from a respectful distance. Spend the afternoon exploring the markets and shops near the ghats, indulging in some souvenir shopping. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kathak dance performance at a local venue.
In the morning, visit Ramnagar Fort, a grand sandstone fort situated on the banks of the Ganges. Explore the museum inside, which exhibits vintage cars, weapons, and artifacts. Afterward, head to Banaras Hindu University and visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan, showcasing a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, and textiles. Spend the evening at the picturesque Assi Ghat, enjoying the sunset and participating in the Ganga Aarti ceremony.
Embark on a day trip to Chunar Fort and Vindhyachal. Start by visiting the magnificent Chunar Fort, located on the banks of the River Ganges. Explore the fort's history and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area. Afterwards, head to Vindhyachal, a holy town famous for the Vindhyavasini Devi Temple. Spend the evening exploring the temple complex and enjoying the serene atmosphere.
Escape the city and venture into nature by visiting the nearby Rajdari and Devdari waterfalls. Enjoy the scenic beauty and take a dip in the refreshing waters. Spend the rest of the day picnicking and relaxing in the serene surroundings. Return to Kashi in the evening and have a leisurely walk along the River Ganges.
After breakfast, check out from your hotel and bid farewell to Kashi. Depart for your next destination with beautiful memories of this spiritual and cultural journey.
While exploring Kashi, make sure to visit the charming Tulsi Manas Temple, dedicated to Lord Rama. Discover the unique Banarasi Paan tradition by trying a paan from a trusted local vendor. Additionally, don't miss the opportunity to try the lip-smacking local delicacies like Malaiyyo and Tamatar Chaat.