Start your day early at Assi Ghat, one of the most popular ghats in Banaras. You can take a dip in the holy River Ganges and attend the morning aarti (prayer ceremony) to start your day on a spiritual note. Post breakfast, you can take a short walk to Tulsi Manas Temple, dedicated to Lord Rama. This temple is known for its exquisite marble work and beautiful garden. In the afternoon, visit the Banaras Hindu University campus, which houses several museums and art galleries. In the evening, go for a boat ride in the Ganges river to see the beautiful views of the city and enjoy the Ganga aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Start your day by visiting Sarnath, the place where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. You can visit the Dhamek Stupa, Chaukhandi Stupa and Sarnath Museum to learn more about the history and culture of Buddhism. In the afternoon, head to Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most revered Hindu temples in India. You can also visit the nearby Annapurna Temple, which is known for its food distribution program. In the evening, explore the narrow lanes of Varanasi, shop for souvenirs and try out the local street food.
If you have extra time, you can explore the nearby Ramnagar Fort, which is located on the eastern bank of the Ganges. You can also take a trip to the nearby Chunar Fort, which is a 90-minute drive from Varanasi. If you want to experience the local culture, you can attend a classical music and dance performance at the Bharat Kala Bhavan museum in BHU campus. Lastly, make sure to try out the famous Banarasi paan and lassi.