Visit the sacred site of Sarnath, where Buddha gave his first sermon. See the ancient stupas and temples, and explore the peaceful gardens and museums.
Start your morning at the Chaukhandi Stupa, a beautiful ancient Buddhist site with intricate carvings and stone pillars. Afternoon visits the stunning Ramnagar Fort, home to the Maharaja of Benares, and see its impressive collection of vintage cars, weapons and paintings. In the evening, take a boat ride on the Ganges River to see the famous Aarti ceremony.
Visit the holy town of Vindhyachal, where many Hindu pilgrims come to worship the goddess Vindhyavasini. See the beautiful temples and take a dip in the sacred pool. Afternoon visits the nearby Sitamarhi, where the goddess Sita stayed during her exile. See the ancient temple and learn about the legend of Ramayana.
Visit the historic city of Allahabad, now known as Prayagraj. Explore the magnificent Akshaya Vat tree, the ancient city of Prayag, and the sacred Sangam site where the Ganges, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati rivers converge. In the evening, take a stroll along the riverbank and watch the sunset.
Experience the spiritual heart of India in the ancient city of Varanasi. Take a morning boat ride on the Ganges River to see the ghats and the colorful life of the locals. Visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu temples, and explore the narrow alleys and markets of the Old City. In the evening, witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony.
Visit the historic Chunar Fort, built by the Mughals and later used by the British. See the stunning views of the river and the surrounding hills. Afternoon visits the nearby city of Mirzapur, famous for its carpets and brassware. See the beautiful temples and explore the markets for unique souvenirs.
Explore the natural beauty of the Chandraprabha Wildlife Sanctuary. Take a trek through the lush forests and see the stunning waterfalls and wildlife. Visit the ancient temples and ruins, including the famous Bawan Mandap and the Chandreshwar Nath Temple.
Don't miss the chance to try the local delicacies, such as the famous Banarasi Paan, Lassi, and Chaat. For side trips, consider visiting the nearby cities of Lucknow and Agra, home of the Taj Mahal. To maximize your fun, try attending a local festival or cultural event, such as the famous Kumbh Mela. Lastly, make sure to bring comfortable shoes and clothing, as well as sunscreen and mosquito repellent.