5-Day Varanasi Itinerary for November 2023

  1. Day 1: Kashi Vishwanath Temple
    14 minutes (4.7 km) from Varanasi Junction Railway Station

    In the morning, visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most sacred temples in India dedicated to Lord Shiva. Later, head to the nearby Dasaswamedh Ghat for a boat ride on the Ganges River. In the afternoon, explore the narrow alleys of the old city, famous for its silk sari shops and street food vendors. End the day with the Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat.

  2. Day 2: Sarnath and Chaukhandi Stupa
    1 hour (11 km) from Kashi Vishwanath Temple

    Start the day with a visit to Sarnath, the place where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon. Explore the archaeological ruins and visit the Sarnath Museum to see the Ashoka Pillar and other relics. Afternoon, visit the Chaukhandi Stupa, which is believed to be the first monument built by Emperor Ashoka. Enjoy the sunset views from the stupa.

  3. Day 3: Banaras Hindu University and Ramnagar Fort
    30 minutes (7.2 km) from Chaukhandi Stupa

    Start the day with a visit to Banaras Hindu University, one of the oldest and largest universities in India. Explore the campus, visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum and see the famous statue of Madan Mohan Malviya. In the afternoon, visit the Ramnagar Fort, a beautiful sandstone fort on the banks of the Ganges River. Observe the museum inside the fort, which depicts the history of Varanasi.

  4. Day 4: Manikarnika Ghat and Kedar Ghat
    20 minutes (5 km) from Ramnagar Fort

    Start the day with a visit to Manikarnika Ghat, the most sacred ghat of Varanasi and the place where Hindus are cremated. Take a boat ride on the Ganges River to see the ghats from a different perspective. In the afternoon, visit Kedar Ghat, known for its ancient Shiva temple and colorful painted steps. In the evening, attend the Ganga Aarti ceremony at Kedar Ghat.

  5. Day 5: Assi Ghat and Tulsi Manas Temple
    25 minutes (6 km) from Kedar Ghat

    Start the day with a visit to Assi Ghat, one of the oldest and most important ghats of Varanasi. Visit the nearby Anandamayi Ma Ashram and explore the local shops and cafes. In the afternoon, visit Tulsi Manas Temple, a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Rama and known for its walls adorned with verses from the Ramcharitmanas. End the day with the sunset views from the temple's terrace.

Recommendations

If you have an extra day, you can visit the nearby city of Allahabad and see the convergence of three rivers (Sangam). You can also take a day trip to Chunar Fort, located on the banks of the Ganges River. For a unique experience, you can take a guided food tour of Varanasi's famous street food. Be sure to try the chaat, lassi, and paan. To maximize your fun, wear comfortable shoes and clothing, carry a water bottle, and be prepared for the crowds and chaos of the old city.

For finding hotels and flights, you can visit https://booking.tp.st/VhZsadPo.

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