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7-Day Itinerary for Banaras

Exploring the Vibrant City of Banaras

Viewed by 102 travelers

Wednesday, December 20: Arrival in Banaras

Start your trip by arriving in Banaras and checking into a hotel. Use this link to check hotel and flight prices. In the afternoon, take a relaxing boat ride on the holy River Ganges and witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat in the evening.

  • Arrival and Hotel Check-in: Cost varies, time spent depends on arrival
  • Boat Ride on River Ganges: Estimated cost INR 200-300, time spent 1-2 hours
  • Dashashwamedh Ghat and Ganga Aarti: No entry fee, time spent 1-2 hours

Thursday, December 21: Exploring the Old City

Spend your morning exploring the narrow lanes of the old city, known as Varanasi's heart. Visit the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple and delve into the religious significance of this ancient place. Afternoon is a perfect time to take a heritage walk, exploring the stunning architecture of old havelis and ancient mansions. In the evening, indulge in a traditional Banarasi food tour.

  • Kashi Vishwanath Temple: No entry fee, time spent 1-2 hours
  • Heritage Walk in the Old City: Estimated cost INR 500, time spent 2-3 hours
  • Banarasi Food Tour: Estimated cost INR 800-1000, time spent 2-3 hours

Friday, December 22: Sarnath Excursion

Take a day trip to Sarnath, a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site located just outside Banaras. Start your day by visiting the Dhamekh Stupa and exploring the ruins of ancient monasteries and temples. In the afternoon, visit the Sarnath Museum to learn about the rich history and artifacts of the region. Return to Banaras and spend the evening at the serene Manikarnika Ghat.

  • Dhamekh Stupa and Ancient Ruins: No entry fee, time spent 1-2 hours
  • Sarnath Museum: Entry fee INR 30, time spent 1-2 hours
  • Manikarnika Ghat: No entry fee, time spent 1-2 hours

Saturday, December 23: Banaras Silk Shopping

Get ready to indulge in a shopping extravaganza. Start your morning by exploring the bustling markets of Banaras, known for their exquisite silk sarees and handicrafts. Visit Weaver's Village to witness the intricate process of silk weaving. In the afternoon, visit the famous Benaras Hindu University and enjoy a leisurely walk in its sprawling campus. Wrap up your day with a boat ride during sunset.

  • Banaras Markets: Cost varies based on purchases, time spent 2-3 hours
  • Weaver's Village: No entry fee, time spent 1-2 hours
  • Benaras Hindu University: No entry fee, time spent 1-2 hours
  • Boat Ride on River Ganges: Estimated cost INR 200-300, time spent 1-2 hours

Sunday, December 24: Banaras Ghats Exploration

Dedicate your morning to exploring the numerous ghats along the banks of the River Ganges. Start with Assi Ghat and make your way to other significant ghats like Manikarnika Ghat and Harishchandra Ghat. You can also opt for a sunrise boat ride for a breathtaking view. In the afternoon, hop on a cycle rickshaw and explore the vibrant lanes of Varanasi.

  • Assi Ghat: No entry fee, time spent 1-2 hours
  • Manikarnika Ghat and Harishchandra Ghat: No entry fee, time spent 1-2 hours
  • Sunrise Boat Ride: Estimated cost INR 200-300, time spent 1-2 hours
  • Cycle Rickshaw Ride: Estimated cost INR 200-300, time spent 1-2 hours

Monday, December 25: Temples and Music

Begin your day by visiting the famous Tulsi Manas Mandir and the Durga Temple. Experience the tranquility of these holy places and immerse yourself in the spirituality of Banaras. In the afternoon, explore the Bharat Kala Bhavan museum to admire its impressive collection of art and artifacts. In the evening, enjoy the mesmerizing sound of classical Indian music during a live performance.

  • Tulsi Manas Mandir: No entry fee, time spent 1-2 hours
  • Durga Temple: No entry fee, time spent 1-2 hours
  • Bharat Kala Bhavan: Entry fee INR 20-50, time spent 1-2 hours
  • Live Music Performance: Estimated cost INR 500-1000, time spent 2-3 hours

Tuesday, December 26: Departure

Wrap up your trip to Banaras by enjoying a morning boat ride, soaking in the last glimpses of this enchanting city. Spend your remaining time exploring local markets for souvenirs and traditional crafts. Catch your flight back home in the afternoon.

  • Morning Boat Ride: Estimated cost INR 200-300, time spent 1-2 hours
  • Shopping for Souvenirs: Cost varies based on purchases, time spent 2-3 hours
  • Departure: Time spent depends on flight departure

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Banaras, don't miss out on visiting the serene and less crowded Chunar Fort, located about an hour's drive from the city. This historical fort offers beautiful views of the River Ganges and is popular among locals for picnicking and enjoying a peaceful time away from the city's hustle and bustle.

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