Exploring the Best of Banaras in 2 Days

1. Day 1: Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat
   10 minutes (3 km) from Varanasi Junction Railway Station

   Start your day with a visit to the iconic Dashashwamedh Ghat, which is located on the banks of the River Ganges. Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti, which takes place in the evening. The aarti is a devotional ritual that uses fire as an offering to the River Ganges. It is a sight to behold and an experience that you will cherish for a lifetime.
   
   After the aarti, take a stroll through the lanes of the old city and explore the local markets. Here, you will find a variety of items ranging from Banarasi silk sarees to street food.

2. Day 2: Sarnath and Ramnagar Fort
   30 minutes (10 km) from Varanasi Junction Railway Station

   Start your day by visiting Sarnath, which is located about 10 km away from Varanasi. It is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists and is the place where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. Here, you can visit the Dhamek Stupa, the Chaukhandi Stupa, and the Mulgandha Kuti Vihar.
   
   In the afternoon, head to Ramnagar Fort, which is located on the opposite side of the River Ganges. It is a beautiful fort that was built in the 18th century and is home to a museum that showcases the history of the Maharajas of Benaras. You can also catch a glimpse of the vintage cars and the royal collection of swords and guns.
   
   In the evening, head back to the city and enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the local restaurants.

Recommendations

Banaras is a city that is filled with history and culture. If you have some extra time, then you can consider visiting some other places like the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, the Tulsi Manas Temple, and the Banaras Hindu University. You can also take a boat ride on the River Ganges and witness the beautiful sunrise.

You can also plan a side trip to nearby places like Allahabad, which is known for the Triveni Sangam, the meeting point of the three rivers. You can also visit the Allahabad Fort and the Anand Bhawan.

To maximize your fun in Banaras, make sure to try out the local street food, which is a must-try. You can also attend a classical music concert or a dance performance in the city. Don't forget to shop for some Banarasi silk sarees and handicrafts as souvenirs for your loved ones.