Start your day with a serene boat ride at Assi Ghat during sunrise to witness the morning rituals and offerings to the Sun God. Afterward, you can take a stroll at the Assi market, where you will find a range of souvenirs, handicrafts, books, and traditional clothes. In the afternoon, head towards the famous Banaras Hindu University, which is one of India's premier institutes for higher education. The campus is spread over an area of 1,300 acres and houses an art museum, a botanical garden, and a science center. In the evening, visit Ramnagar Fort, which is situated on the opposite bank of the river Ganges. The fort showcases the grandeur of the bygone era with its museum that showcases the royal collection of vintage cars, weapons, and antique clocks.
Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple, which is one of the most famous and revered temples in India. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and it is believed that a visit to this temple can wash away all your sins. You can also take a walk through the narrow lanes of Varanasi to explore the city's vibrant culture and traditions. In the afternoon, visit Sarnath, a famous Buddhist pilgrimage site, which is located 10 km from the city. At Sarnath, you can visit the Dhamekh Stupa, which is a magnificent structure that dates back to 500 CE. You can also visit the Sarnath Museum, which houses a vast collection of artifacts, sculptures, and paintings from the Gupta and Mauryan periods. In the evening, watch the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, where priests perform Hindu rituals with fire lamps to show their gratitude to the river goddess.
Start your day with a visit to Manikarnika Ghat, which is one of the oldest and busiest ghats in Varanasi. This ghat is unique as it is the only ghat where cremations take place 24x7. Afterward, head towards the Durga temple, which is dedicated to Goddess Durga and is one of the most prominent shrines in Varanasi. In the afternoon, visit the Alamgir Mosque, which is a beautiful mosque built by Aurangzeb. The mosque is located on the bank of the river Ganges, and it offers a stunning view of the river and the city. In the evening, visit Chunar Fort, which is located 23 km from Varanasi. The fort is situated on a rocky cliff above the river Ganges, and it offers a breathtaking view of the surroundings.
If you have an extra day, you can visit the Chandraprabha Wildlife Sanctuary, which is located 70 km from Varanasi. The sanctuary is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including leopards, tigers, sambar deer, and Indian peafowl. You can also take a day trip to Allahabad, which is located 120 km from Varanasi and is known for its Triveni Sangam, where the three rivers Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati meet. To maximize your fun, try the local street food, including chaat, lassi, and jalebi. You can also participate in a yoga and meditation session, which is a popular activity in Varanasi. Finally, don't forget to attend a classical music concert or a dance performance, which is a great way to experience the city's rich cultural heritage.
Book your flights and hotels for your upcoming trip to Varanasi in September 2023 through this link.