Start your day with a boat ride along the Ganges River to witness the morning rituals that take place at Dashashwamedh Ghat. This iconic ghat is believed to be one of the oldest and most sacred ghats in Varanasi, and it is the site of the famous Ganga Aarti ceremony that takes place every evening. Afterward, take a stroll through the narrow alleys of the old city to explore the local markets and indulge in some street food. In the afternoon, visit the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. In the evening, head back to Dashashwamedh Ghat to witness the Ganga Aarti ceremony that takes place as the sun sets.
Start your day by visiting the Sarnath archeological site, where Buddha preached his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. Visit the Sarnath Museum, which has a vast collection of Buddhist artifacts and sculptures. Afterward, head to the nearby Deer Park, which is home to a large deer population and is a great spot for a picnic lunch. In the afternoon, visit the Ramnagar Fort, a beautiful 17th-century fortification built by the kings of Varanasi. Take a leisurely walk around the fort, exploring its various sections and enjoying the stunning views of the Ganges river.
If you have time, take a day trip to Chunar Fort, which is around 40 km from Varanasi. This fort is known for its unique architecture and is a great spot for a family picnic. You can also visit the nearby Vindhyachal temple, which is dedicated to the goddess Durga. Another great side trip is to visit the neighboring city of Allahabad, which is around 120 km from Varanasi. Allahabad is home to the Triveni Sangam, the confluence of three holy rivers: the Ganges, the Yamuna, and the Sarasvati.