2 day itinerary for Kashi

Itinerary

Day 1:

Good morning! Welcome to Kashi, also known as Varanasi, one of the oldest and holiest cities in India. Let's start our day by witnessing the mesmerizing sunrise at the famous Dashashwamedh Ghat. As the sun rises, you'll see the river Ganges come alive with devotees performing their morning rituals and taking a holy dip.

Afterward, let's explore the narrow lanes of the old city, known as the "galis." These lanes are filled with vibrant markets, ancient temples, and bustling street life. Don't forget to try some local street food like kachori, chaat, and lassi as you wander through the colorful streets.

Next, let's visit the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple is considered one of the most sacred places for Hindus and attracts devotees from all over the world. Take your time to soak in the spiritual atmosphere and admire the intricate architecture.

For lunch, let's head to one of the many rooftop restaurants overlooking the Ganges. Enjoy a delicious meal while taking in the panoramic view of the river and the ghats.

In the afternoon, let's take a boat ride along the Ganges. This will give you a unique perspective of the city and its ghats. You'll witness the evening aarti ceremony, a beautiful ritual where priests offer prayers to the river with oil lamps and incense. It's a truly magical experience.

As the day comes to an end, let's explore the famous Manikarnika Ghat, the main cremation ghat in Varanasi. While it may seem unusual to visit a cremation site, it's an important part of the city's culture and spirituality. It's a place where life and death coexist, and it offers a profound insight into the cycle of life.

Day 2:

Good morning! Today, let's start our day by visiting the Sarnath, a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site located just a few kilometers from Varanasi. This is where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. Explore the ancient ruins, visit the Dhamek Stupa, and soak in the peaceful ambiance of this sacred place.

Afterward, let's head back to Varanasi and visit the famous Banaras Hindu University (BHU). This prestigious institution is not only known for its academic excellence but also for its beautiful campus and the Bharat Kala Bhavan museum, which houses a remarkable collection of Indian art and artifacts.

For lunch, let's try some authentic Banarasi cuisine. Don't miss out on the famous Banarasi paan, a betel leaf preparation filled with various mouth-watering ingredients.

In the afternoon, let's explore the nearby village of Ramnagar, located on the other side of the Ganges. Here, you can visit the Ramnagar Fort, a magnificent 17th-century structure that serves as the residence of the royal family of Varanasi. The fort also houses a museum that displays a fascinating collection of vintage cars, weapons, and artifacts.

As the evening approaches, let's head back to the ghats to witness the Ganga aarti ceremony at one of the lesser-known ghats, like Assi Ghat or Harishchandra Ghat. These ghats offer a more intimate and serene experience compared to the crowded Dashashwamedh Ghat.

To end our two-day adventure in Kashi, let's indulge in a traditional Banarasi silk shopping experience. Explore the local markets and find exquisite sarees, shawls, and other handcrafted textiles to take back as souvenirs.

I hope this itinerary gives you a taste of the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of Kashi. Enjoy your time in this enchanting city!