Day 1: Spiritual and Cultural Immersion

Morning

1. Subah-e-Banaras at Assi Ghat

• ● Start your day early with Subah-e-Banaras, a serene morning ritual at Assi Ghat that includes yoga, classical music, and Vedic chanting.
• ● Witness the sunrise over the Ganga River, creating a magical atmosphere.

2. Boat Ride on the Ganga River

• ● Take a boat ride from Assi Ghat to Dashashwamedh Ghat.
• ● View the iconic ghats and observe daily life along the riverbanks.

3. Kashi Vishwanath Temple

• ● Visit the sacred Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas.
• ● Explore the new Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, which beautifully connects the temple to the Ganga River.

Afternoon

4. Banaras Hindu University (BHU)

• ● Visit the sprawling BHU campus and the serene New Vishwanath Temple, located inside the campus.
• ● Enjoy the peaceful ambience and learn about the university’s historical significance.

5. Durga Mandir and Tulsi Manas Mandir

• ● Visit Durga Mandir, a vibrant red temple dedicated to Goddess Durga.
• ● Explore Tulsi Manas Mandir, where the Ramcharitmanas were written, showcasing engraved verses from the text.

Evening

6. Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat

• ● Witness the grand Ganga Aarti, a mesmerising ritual performed every evening at Dashashwamedh Ghat.
• ● Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot, or watch from a boat for a unique experience.

7. Explore Local Markets

• ● Stroll through Vishwanath Gali and Thatheri Bazaar for Banarasi silk sarees, wooden toys, and handicrafts.
• ● Don’t forget to try the famous Banarasi paan and street food like kachori-sabzi and jalebi.

Day 2: Exploring Ancient History and Local Life

Morning

1. Sarnath

• ● Take a short drive to Sarnath, the site where Buddha gave his first sermon.
• ● Visit the Dhamek Stupa, Chaukhandi Stupa, and the Sarnath Museum, which houses an exquisite collection of Buddhist artefacts, including the famous Lion Capital of Ashoka.

2. Mulagandha Kuti Vihar

• ● Explore this modern Buddhist temple in Sarnath, adorned with stunning frescoes and peaceful surroundings.

Afternoon

3. Manikarnika Ghat

• ● Return to Varanasi and visit Manikarnika Ghat, one of the holiest cremation sites for Hindus.
• ● Observe the rituals with respect, gaining insight into Varanasi's spiritual essence.

4. Ramnagar Fort

• ● Cross the Ganga to visit Ramnagar Fort, the 17th-century residence of the Maharaja of Varanasi.
• ● Explore the museum showcasing vintage cars, royal artefacts, and ancient manuscripts.

Evening

5. Bharat Mata Temple

• ● Visit the unique Bharat Mata Temple, which features a detailed relief map of India carved in marble instead of idols.

6. Sunset at Assi Ghat

• ● End your day with a peaceful evening at Assi Ghat, enjoying the sunset and a quiet moment by the Ganga.

7. Local Food Delights

• ● Relish authentic Banarasi dishes like baati chokha, malaiyo (winter delicacy), and tamatar chaat at local eateries.