2 day itinerary for Kashi - Varanasi India

Itinerary

Varanasi, also known as Kashi, is a mesmerizing city steeped in spirituality, culture, and history. Here’s a delightful 2-day itinerary that will help you soak in the essence of this ancient city.

## Day 1: Spiritual Awakening and Cultural Immersion

Morning: Sunrise at the Ghats

• Start your day early (around 5:30 AM) with a boat ride on the Ganges River. Watching the sunrise over the ghats is a magical experience. You’ll see the city waking up, with pilgrims performing rituals and the soft glow of the sun reflecting on the water.
• After the boat ride, take a leisurely stroll along the ghats. Don’t miss the famous Dashashwamedh Ghat, where you can witness the morning rituals.

Breakfast: Local Delicacies

• Head to a nearby café or local eatery for a traditional breakfast. Try the kachori-sabzi or jalebi with a cup of chai.

Mid-Morning: Explore the Temples

• Visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most revered Shiva temples in India. The architecture and the spiritual ambiance are truly captivating.
• Next, head to the Bharat Mata Temple, which features a map of India carved in marble. It’s a unique experience!

Lunch: Local Cuisine

• Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Don’t miss out on trying Benares ka chaat or litti chokha.

Afternoon: Sarnath Excursion

• Take a short trip to Sarnath, about 10 km from Varanasi. This is where Buddha delivered his first sermon. Visit the Dhamek Stupa, the Archaeological Museum, and the beautiful Buddha statue.
• Spend some time in the serene gardens, reflecting on the peaceful surroundings.

Evening: Ganga Aarti

• Return to Varanasi and prepare for the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat. Arrive early to secure a good spot. The ceremony, with its chanting, music, and the flickering lamps, is a sight to behold.
• After the Aarti, take a moment to soak in the atmosphere and perhaps chat with locals or fellow travelers.

Dinner: Night Bites

• For dinner, try a local restaurant that serves Benares biryani or thali. The flavors are rich and will leave you wanting more!

## Day 2: Heritage and Local Life

Morning: Breakfast and Local Markets

• Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel or a local eatery. Try poha or idli.
• After breakfast, explore the bustling Nawabi Chaat and Thatheri Bazaar. You can shop for beautiful silk sarees, handicrafts, and souvenirs.

Mid-Morning: Visit to the Silk Weaving Centers

• Varanasi is famous for its silk. Visit a local silk weaving center to see artisans at work. You might even get a chance to buy some exquisite silk products directly from the weavers.

Lunch: Traditional Meal

• Enjoy a traditional meal at a local restaurant. Try the kashi chaat or paneer tikka.

Afternoon: Explore the Alleys

• Spend your afternoon wandering through the narrow alleys of Varanasi. Each turn reveals hidden temples, local shops, and vibrant street life. Don’t forget to visit the Manikarnika Ghat, the main cremation ghat, to witness the unique rituals and understand the city’s deep connection with life and death.

Evening: Cultural Show

• In the evening, consider attending a cultural show or a classical music concert. The Ramnagar Fort sometimes hosts performances, or you can find local events happening around the city.

Dinner: Farewell Feast

• For your last dinner in Varanasi, indulge in a meal at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the Ganges. Enjoy the view while savoring dishes like dal bhari or mutton curry.

Night: Reflect and Relax

• Take a final stroll along the ghats, reflecting on your experiences. The city has a way of leaving a lasting impression, and the night sky over the Ganges is the perfect backdrop for your memories.

And there you have it! A vibrant, spiritual, and culturally rich 2-day itinerary in Varanasi. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to capture those beautiful moments! 🌅✨