How many days do you need in Banaras?

This itinerary covers 5 days in Banaras, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for Banaras?

Plan your perfect 5 days trip to Banaras. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

Spiritual Journey Through Banaras

Day 1: Ganges River Exploration

Varanasi, India

7:00AM

Dashashwamedh Ghat

Start your day by witnessing the sunrise at Dashashwamedh Ghat, where the Ganga Aarti takes place in the evening. It is a perfect spot for some tranquil moments by the river.

None, 1.5 hours

9:00AM

Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, located near the Dashashwamedh Ghat.

None, 1 hour

11:00AM

Assi Ghat

Head to Assi Ghat, a peaceful and picturesque ghat where you can experience yoga and meditation sessions by the river.

None, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Banarasi lunch at a local restaurant near Assi Ghat, offering authentic flavors of the region.

INR 500, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Tulsi Manas Temple

Visit the Tulsi Manas Temple, a modern marble structure dedicated to Lord Rama, known for its beautiful wall inscriptions of the Ramayana.

INR 100, 1 hour

5:00PM

Evening Aarti at Assi Ghat

Witness the evening Aarti ceremony at Assi Ghat, a soul-stirring experience as lamps are lit and prayers are offered to the river.

None, 1 hour

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Day 2: Sarnath and Spiritual Experience

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Sarnath Archaeological Site

Embark on a journey to Sarnath, the place where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon. Explore the ancient ruins and visit the Dhamek Stupa.

INR 300, 2 hours

11:00AM

Mulagandha Kuti Vihara

Visit the Mulagandha Kuti Vihara, a Buddhist temple known for its beautiful frescoes and serene atmosphere.

INR 200, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Sarnath

Enjoy a vegetarian lunch at a local restaurant in Sarnath, offering a variety of traditional dishes.

INR 400, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Dhamek Stupa

Head back to the Dhamek Stupa to witness the peaceful surroundings and reflect on the spiritual significance of the site.

None, 1 hour

5:00PM

Boat Ride on the Ganges

Return to Varanasi and enjoy a serene boat ride along the Ganges River, taking in the tranquil atmosphere of the holy city.

INR 300, 1.5 hours

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Day 3: Cultural Heritage Discovery

Varanasi, India

9:00AM

Bharat Kala Bhavan

Explore the Bharat Kala Bhavan, a museum within the Banaras Hindu University campus, showcasing a rich collection of historical and artistic artifacts.

INR 200, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at BHU Campus

Savor a delicious lunch at one of the eateries within the Banaras Hindu University campus, offering a variety of cuisines.

INR 600, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Banaras Silk Weaving Center

Visit a Banaras Silk Weaving Center to witness the intricate art of weaving traditional Banarasi silk sarees and textiles.

INR 500, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Shopping at Godowlia Market

Explore the bustling Godowlia Market, known for its vibrant atmosphere and a wide range of traditional Banarasi textiles, handicrafts, and street food.

Varies, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at a Local Restaurant

Indulge in a sumptuous dinner at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of authentic Banarasi cuisine.

INR 800, 1.5 hours

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Day 4: Ganges Sunrise and Local Markets

Varanasi, India

5:00AM

Sunrise Boat Ride

Begin your day with a serene boat ride on the Ganges River, witnessing the mesmerizing sunrise and the daily rituals along the ghats.

INR 300, 1.5 hours

8:00AM

Breakfast at a Local Cafe

Enjoy a delightful breakfast at a local cafe, sipping on freshly brewed Banarasi chai and savoring local breakfast delicacies.

INR 200, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Vishwanath Gali

Stroll through Vishwanath Gali, a bustling lane known for its vibrant markets, offering a wide variety of traditional Banarasi textiles and artifacts.

Varies, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at a Local Eatery

Relish a hearty lunch at a local eatery, tasting the flavors of street food and regional delicacies in the heart of Banaras.

INR 400, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Local Artisans

Engage with local artisans and observe the intricate craftsmanship of Banarasi sarees and handicrafts at their workshops.

None, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Relax at a Riverside Cafe

Unwind at a cozy riverside cafe, enjoying the serene view of the Ganges River while sipping on refreshing beverages.

INR 300, 1 hour

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Day 5: Ganga Aarti and BHU Visit

Varanasi, India

4:30PM

Banaras Hindu University

Visit the Banaras Hindu University, known for its sprawling campus and iconic landmarks, including the Bharat Kala Bhavan and the Vishwanath Temple.

None, 2 hours

7:00PM

Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat

Participate in the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat, where the rhythmic chants and the flickering lamps create an enchanting ambiance.

None, 1 hour

8:30PM

Dinner at a Rooftop Restaurant

Conclude your spiritual journey with a delectable dinner at a rooftop restaurant, offering panoramic views of the illuminated ghats and the city of Banaras.

INR 1000, 2 hours

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Step 1 Outline Preview:

Spiritual Journey Through Banaras

Day 1: Ganges River Exploration

7:00AM

9:00AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

5:00PM

Day 2: Sarnath and Spiritual Experience

8:00AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

5:00PM

Day 3: Cultural Heritage Discovery

9:00AM

12:00PM

2:30PM

4:30PM

7:00PM

Day 4: Ganges Sunrise and Local Markets

5:00AM

8:00AM

10:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

5:00PM

Day 5: Ganga Aarti and BHU Visit

4:30PM

7:00PM

8:30PM

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