Varanasi is a city steeped in culture and history, and this four-day plan moves through its sacred temples, ancient ghats, museums and living traditions. Each day pairs a few places that sit close together so you can soak in the spiritual and artistic life of the city at a comfortable pace.
Ghats, temples and Sarnath
A day that begins on the river and moves from Varanasi's holiest temple to the place where Buddha gave his first sermon.
Morning
Sunrise boat ride on the Ganges
Start early with a boat ride on the Ganges to see the city from the water and witness the morning rituals of the locals.
Afternoon
Visit one of the most famous temples in Varanasi, dedicated to Lord Shiva and considered one of the holiest places in India.
Afternoon
Explore a collection of artifacts and sculptures from the Buddhist era, at Sarnath, where Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment.
Evening
Ganga Aarti at
Attend the beautiful ritual where priests perform prayers and offer lamps to the river.
University, fort and old city lanes
A day that combines academic and artistic campus life with a riverside fort and the bustling old city.
Morning
Visit one of the largest residential universities in Asia, whose campus holds several museums and galleries showcasing Indian art and culture.
Afternoon
Cross to the opposite bank of the Ganges to see this 18th-century fort, whose museum displays vintage cars, weapons and other artifacts.
Evening
Stroll through the old city lanes
Wander the narrow lanes of the old city and browse the local markets for souvenirs, handicrafts and traditional clothing.
Cremation ghat, museum and music
A day that explores the city's deep-rooted traditions, from its most famous cremation ghat to its classical arts.
Morning
Visit one of the oldest and busiest cremation ghats in Varanasi, an important part of the city's culture and tradition.
Afternoon
See a collection of paintings, sculptures and textiles from different parts of India.
Evening
Classical music or dance performance
Attend a performance at one of the city's cultural centers and experience the rich musical heritage Varanasi is known for.
Temples of Rama and Durga, and a sunset on the river
A day of devotional temples followed by an evening on the water as the city's rituals unfold.
Morning
Visit the temple dedicated to Lord Rama, famous for walls adorned with verses from the Ramcharitmanas, the epic poem written by Tulsidas.
Afternoon
Visit the temple dedicated to the goddess Durga, admired for its unique architecture and intricate carvings.
Evening
Sunset boat ride on the Ganges
Take a sunset boat ride to witness the evening rituals of the locals, and release a floating lamp into the river as a symbolic gesture.