Start your day at Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most famous and oldest Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. You can take a dip in the holy water of Manikarnika Ghat and then head to the temple complex. Be prepared to be awed by the intricate architectural designs and the spiritual ambiance of the temple. You can also visit the Annapurna Temple nearby for a quick vegetarian lunch. In the afternoon, take a stroll through the narrow lanes of the old city and explore the vibrant bazaars. In the evening, attend the Ganga Aarti ceremony, a Hindu ritual of worshiping the Ganges River.
Start your day at Sarnath, a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site. Visit the Dhamek Stupa, the Mulagandha Kuti Vihar Temple, and the Sarnath Archaeological Museum to learn about the history and culture of Buddhism. In the afternoon, head to Ramnagar Fort, an 18th-century fortification located on the eastern bank of the Ganges River. You can witness the daily evening aarti ceremony which takes place at the temple inside the fort. The fort also houses a museum showcasing the royal artifacts of the Maharaja of Banaras.
Start your day at Assi Ghat, a popular ghat in Banaras known for its lively ambiance and boat rides on the Ganges River. You can take a dip in the holy water and then head to the nearby Shri Durga Temple to seek blessings. In the afternoon, visit the Banaras Hindu University, one of the largest residential universities in Asia. You can explore the campus, visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan museum, and witness the grand architecture of the Vishwanath Temple, located inside the campus. In the evening, you can enjoy a street food tour of the famous chaat and lassi shops around the university.
Don't miss out on the Banarasi Paan, a local delicacy made of betel leaf, areca nut, and other ingredients. You can also take a day trip to the nearby Chunar Fort, located 42 km from Banaras. Varanasi is famous for its silk sarees, so don't forget to shop for some at the local markets. For an off-beat experience, you can also visit the Aghor Ashram to learn about the Aghori sect of Sadhus.