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7-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Varanasi in August 2023

  1. Day 1: Dashashwamedh Ghat
    30 minutes (6.2 km) from Varanasi Junction

    Witness the morning Ganga Aarti ceremony followed by a boat ride to see the various ghats along the river. In the afternoon, explore the narrow lanes of Varanasi and visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple.

  2. Day 2: Sarnath
    1 hour (12.5 km) from Dashashwamedh Ghat

    Visit the ancient Buddhist site of Sarnath where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon. Explore the ruins, museum and the tranquil gardens. In the evening, attend the light and sound show at the site.

  3. Day 3: Banaras Hindu University and Ramnagar Fort
    30 minutes (7.5 km) from Dashashwamedh Ghat

    In the morning, explore the sprawling campus of Banaras Hindu University which houses a museum and an art gallery. In the afternoon, visit the scenic Ramnagar Fort located on the banks of the Ganges.

  4. Day 4: Manikarnika Ghat and Bharat Kala Bhavan
    10 minutes (2.6 km) from Dashashwamedh Ghat

    Take a boat ride to Manikarnika Ghat, one of the oldest and largest ghats in Varanasi, famous for its cremation ceremonies. Visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan museum in the afternoon, which showcases a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, and textiles.

  5. Day 5: Durga Temple and Tulsi Manas Temple
    10 minutes (3.3 km) from Dashashwamedh Ghat

    Begin the day by visiting the colorful Durga Temple followed by exploring the nearby markets for souvenirs. In the evening, go to the Tulsi Manas Temple, known for its beautiful murals and exquisite architecture.

  6. Day 6: Assi Ghat and BHU Musical Fountain
    20 minutes (5.2 km) from Dashashwamedh Ghat

    Visit Assi Ghat, a popular spot for yoga and meditation. Walk along the river and witness the evening Ganga Aarti ceremony. End the day at the Banaras Hindu University Musical Fountain which is a must-see attraction.

  7. Day 7: Ravidas Park and Alamgir Mosque
    20 minutes (6.7 km) from Dashashwamedh Ghat

    Begin the day by visiting Ravidas Park, a beautiful park with a lake. In the afternoon, explore the historic Alamgir Mosque which has a blend of Hindu and Islamic architecture. End the evening with a sunset boat ride along the Ganges.

Recommendations

Don't miss the opportunity to try out the local street food, take a dip in the holy Ganges river, and attend a classical music performance. Day trips to nearby locations such as Chunar Fort, Chandraprabha Wildlife Sanctuary, and Vindhyachal Temple are also recommended.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Dashashwamedh Ghat (2 hours, free)
  • Sarnath (3 hours, ₹150)
  • Banaras Hindu University and Ramnagar Fort (4 hours, ₹50)
  • Manikarnika Ghat and Bharat Kala Bhavan (4 hours, ₹20)
  • Durga Temple and Tulsi Manas Temple (3 hours, free)
  • Assi Ghat and BHU Musical Fountain (3 hours, free)
  • Ravidas Park and Alamgir Mosque (4 hours, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: ₹220
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