In the morning, visit the Dhamekh Stupa, one of the most impressive structures in Sarnath. Dhamekh Stupa is believed to be the spot where Buddha delivered his first sermon after his enlightenment. In the afternoon, explore the Sarnath Archaeological Museum that houses a vast collection of Buddhist artifacts and sculptures. In the evening, enjoy the Sound and Light Show at the Sarnath Stupa premises that showcases the history of Sarnath and Buddha's teachings.
Start your day by visiting the Banaras Hindu University (BHU), one of India's most prestigious universities. Visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan museum on the BHU campus, which houses an extensive collection of Indian paintings, textiles, and sculptures. In the afternoon, visit the New Vishwanath Temple, also known as the Birla Temple, which is located inside the BHU campus. In the evening, take a boat ride at the Assi Ghat and witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti, a Hindu religious ritual that involves fire and chanting.
Apart from the above itinerary, you can also visit the Ramnagar Fort, which is located on the eastern bank of the Ganges River. The fort houses a museum that showcases the history of the Kashi Naresh, the former rulers of Banaras. Another popular attraction is the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, the holiest of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India. If you have more time, consider a day trip to Chunar Fort, which is about 23 km from Varanasi and offers a scenic view of the Ganges River. Make sure to try the local delicacies like chaat, lassi, and Banarasi paan to make the most of your trip.
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