In the morning, visit the Dashashwamedh Ghat, a Hindu pilgrimage site on the banks of the Ganges. Witness the Ganga Aarti ceremony, a Hindu ritual that involves chanting, incense, and lamps. Afternoon, head to the Manikarnika Ghat, the main cremation ghat of Varanasi, to learn about Hindu death rituals. In the evening, take a boat ride on the Ganges to see the ghats and temples lit up at night.
In the morning, visit Sarnath, the site where Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. See the Dhamek Stupa, a massive structure that marks the spot where Buddha gave his sermon, and the ruins of ancient monasteries. Spend the afternoon at the Ramnagar Fort, a 17th-century fort and palace that houses a museum of vintage cars, weapons, and paintings. In the evening, enjoy the famous street food of Varanasi at the Kachori Gali.
Other attractions to consider are the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and one of the most famous temples in India, and the Banaras Hindu University, one of the largest residential universities in Asia. For a side trip, visit the Chunar Fort, a 14th-century fort on the banks of the Ganges, or the Chandra Prabha Wildlife Sanctuary, known for its waterfalls and trekking trails. To maximize fun, try a bicycle tour of the city or take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Indian dishes. Lastly, don't forget to try the famous Varanasi silk sarees, a specialty of the region.