7 day itinerary for Banaras

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Banaras

Welcome to Banaras! After checking into your hotel, take some time to relax and freshen up. In the evening, head to the famous Dashashwamedh Ghat to witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony. The rhythmic chants, the flickering lamps, and the spiritual atmosphere will leave you in awe.

Day 2: Spiritual Exploration

Start your day with a boat ride on the holy Ganges River. Witness the sunrise and observe the locals performing their morning rituals. Afterward, visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most sacred temples in India. Explore the narrow lanes of the old city, known as the "galis," and indulge in some local street food like kachoris and lassi.

Day 3: Cultural Immersion

Today, immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Banaras. Visit the Banaras Hindu University, one of the largest residential universities in Asia. Explore the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, which houses a vast collection of ancient Indian art and artifacts. In the evening, attend a classical music or dance performance at the famous Sankat Mochan Temple.

Day 4: Sarnath Excursion

Take a day trip to Sarnath, located just a few kilometers from Banaras. This is where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. Visit the Dhamek Stupa, the Mulagandhakuti Vihara, and the Sarnath Museum to learn about the history and teachings of Buddhism. Enjoy a peaceful evening meditating in the serene surroundings.

Day 5: Varanasi Silk Shopping

Banaras is renowned for its exquisite silk sarees and fabrics. Spend the day exploring the local markets like Vishwanath Gali and Thatheri Bazaar, where you can find a wide range of silk products. Don't forget to bargain and pick up some beautiful souvenirs to take back home.

Day 6: Food Trail

Embark on a culinary adventure and explore the diverse flavors of Banaras. Start your day with a traditional Banarasi breakfast of kachori-sabzi and jalebi. Indulge in local delicacies like Banarasi paan, malaiyo (a frothy milk dessert), and the famous Banarasi paan ice cream. End your day with a sumptuous dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the Ganges.

Day 7: Ghat Exploration and Departure

On your last day, visit some of the other famous ghats in Banaras, such as Assi Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, and Harishchandra Ghat. Observe the rituals and ceremonies taking place and soak in the spiritual ambiance. Before bidding farewell to Banaras, take a final boat ride on the Ganges to witness the magical evening aarti.

Remember, this itinerary is just a suggestion, and you can customize it based on your interests and preferences. Enjoy your time in Banaras, and may your journey be filled with unforgettable experiences!