Visit Assi Ghat, one of the most popular ghats in Varanasi, to witness the morning rituals and attend yoga classes. In the afternoon, explore the narrow alleys of the nearby markets. In the evening, enjoy the Ganga Aarti ceremony at the ghat.
Visit Sarnath, the birthplace of Buddhism, and explore the ancient ruins and the Sarnath Museum. In the afternoon, take a stroll in the Deer Park and attend the evening Sound and Light show at the Sarnath ruins.
Visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most revered Hindu temples in India, to witness the morning rituals and attend the Abhishekam ceremony. In the afternoon, explore the nearby markets and visit the Banaras Hindu University. In the evening, take a boat ride on the Ganges and witness the Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Visit the Ramnagar Fort and Museum, a 17th-century fort and museum displaying the heritage and culture of Varanasi. In the afternoon, explore the nearby Chunar Fort and visit the nearby weaving village to witness the art of weaving Banarasi silk sarees. In the evening, take a walk on the ghats and witness the Ganga Aarti ceremony at Assi Ghat.
Visit Manikarnika Ghat, the largest cremation ghat in Varanasi, to witness the Hindu rituals around death. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Bharat Mata Temple and explore the nearby markets. In the evening, take a walk on the ghats and witness the Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Visit the Alamgir Mosque, a 17th-century mosque built by Aurangzeb, to witness the blend of Hindu and Mughal architecture. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Gyanvapi Mosque and explore the nearby markets. In the evening, take a boat ride on the Ganges and witness the Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Visit Gauri Kund, a small temple dedicated to Goddess Parvati, and bathe in the holy water. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Tulsi Manas Temple, a modern temple dedicated to Lord Rama, and explore the nearby markets. In the evening, take a walk on the ghats and witness the Ganga Aarti ceremony at Assi Ghat.
Other local attractions to consider include the Durga Temple, the Nepali Temple, and the Annapurna Temple. Side trips to consider include the Chunar Fort, the Rajdari and Devdari waterfalls, and the Chandraprabha Wildlife Sanctuary. To maximize your fun, try the local street food and take a guided tour of the city. Other suggestions include visiting the silk weaving workshops and attending the classical music and dance concerts in the city.