Planning a 3-day trip to Varanasi, one of India’s holiest and most culturally rich cities, can be a fulfilling experience. With its ancient temples, ghats, and unique spiritual ambiance, there’s a lot to explore. Here’s a suggested itinerary to help you make the most of your three days in Varanasi.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Day 1: Explore the Ghats, Temples, and River
Morning:
- Early Morning Boat Ride on the Ganges
Start your day early with a peaceful boat ride along the Ganges River at dawn. This is the most serene time to experience the ghats and witness the locals performing their morning rituals. You’ll see the sun rising over the river, a truly magical moment. A boat ride will take you past some of the most iconic ghats like Dashashwamedh Ghat, Assi Ghat, and Manikarnika Ghat (the cremation ghat). - Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple
After the boat ride, head to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most sacred temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. It’s located near the ghats and is a must-visit for pilgrims and tourists alike. The temple complex can get crowded, so it’s best to go early in the day.
Late Morning:
- Explore the Ghats
After visiting the temple, take a leisurely stroll along the ghats. Each ghat in Varanasi has its own unique charm and history. Some popular ones include:- Dashashwamedh Ghat: The most famous ghat, known for its grand evening Ganga Aarti ceremony.
- Manikarnika Ghat: The primary cremation ghat, where you can witness the ancient tradition of cremation by the river.
- Assi Ghat: A quieter spot, often visited by travelers for its more laid-back vibe.
- Breakfast at a Local Cafe
After exploring the ghats, enjoy a traditional Varanasi breakfast at one of the local cafes. Some popular options are The Kashi Cafe and Varanasi Haat.
Afternoon:
- Visit the Bharat Mata Mandir
Head to Bharat Mata Mandir, a unique temple where the map of India is carved in marble. This peaceful temple gives a different perspective on Indian spirituality and nationalism. - Explore the Banaras Hindu University (BHU)
Take some time to visit the Banaras Hindu University, one of the largest residential universities in Asia. The campus is beautifully landscaped and is home to the Vishwanath Temple, which is a smaller replica of the main Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
Evening:
- Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat
Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat. This daily evening ritual is a spectacular sight where priests perform synchronized prayers with fire offerings to the Ganges. The atmosphere is filled with chanting, the sound of bells, and the smell of incense. - Dinner
End your day with dinner at a local restaurant like Café Karma or Aatma for a blend of traditional and contemporary Indian cuisine.
Day 2: Spiritual and Historical Exploration
Morning:
- Visit Sarnath
Start your second day by visiting Sarnath, located just 10 km from Varanasi. This is the place where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. You can visit the Dhamek Stupa, Sarnath Archaeological Museum, and the Mulagandha Kuti Vihara temple. The serene and peaceful environment is perfect for reflection. - Visit the Tibetan Buddhist Temple in Sarnath
Sarnath is also home to a Tibetan Buddhist temple that showcases intricate Tibetan architecture and art. Take some time to explore and enjoy the calm surroundings.
Afternoon:
- Lunch at Sarnath
Enjoy a peaceful lunch in Sarnath at a local restaurant or a small café near the archaeological site. - Visit the Ramnagar Fort
Head to Ramnagar Fort, located on the opposite bank of the Ganges. This historic fort, built in the 18th century, houses a museum with a collection of vintage cars, armory, and costumes. The fort provides a great view of the Ganges and is a beautiful spot to relax and take in the surroundings.
Evening:
- Explore the Markets of Varanasi
Spend your evening exploring the narrow lanes and vibrant markets around Godowlia Market. You’ll find everything from silk saris to traditional handicrafts, spices, and incense. The bustling market is a sensory experience in itself. - Evening Tea at a Riverside Café
Relax at a riverside café with a cup of chai or coffee and enjoy the river view, as the sun sets over Varanasi.
Day 3: Temples, Spirituality, and Relaxation
Morning:
- Visit the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple
Start your final day with a visit to the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman. The temple is known for its peaceful atmosphere and its association with the famous saint, Tulsidas. - Visit the Tulsi Manas Temple
Afterward, visit the Tulsi Manas Temple, located nearby. This temple is dedicated to Lord Rama and is famous for the inscription of the Hindu epic Ramcharitmanas on its walls.
Late Morning:
- Explore the New Vishwanath Temple
Head back to the Banaras Hindu University campus and visit the New Vishwanath Temple (also called the BHU Vishwanath Temple), which is a modern version of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. It’s located within the university premises and is a peaceful spot for worship and reflection.
Afternoon:
- Lunch and Shopping at Varanasi’s Local Shops
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant like The Royal Orchid Café or Bhojanalay, offering traditional North Indian fare. Afterward, take some time to shop for souvenirs, such as Varanasi silk sarees, brassware, or carved wooden items from the local markets.
Evening:
- Enjoy a Sunset Boat Ride or Visit a Ghat Again
End your day with a relaxing sunset boat ride or return to your favorite ghat for one last peaceful moment by the Ganges. The evening light on the river is stunning, and you may even catch a glimpse of the Aarti from a different perspective. - Dinner at a Local Restaurant
Finish your visit to Varanasi with a memorable dinner at Kashi Chat Bhandar or Vishnu Tea Emporium, both offering local delicacies like chaat and lassi.
Tips for Your 3-Day Varanasi Itinerary:
- Dress Modestly: Varanasi is a spiritual city, so it’s best to dress conservatively, especially when visiting temples or religious sites.
- Stay Hydrated: The weather in Varanasi can be quite hot, especially in summer months. Carry a water bottle and stay hydrated.
- Be Prepared for Crowds: Varanasi is a busy city, especially near the ghats and temples. Be ready for crowds, particularly around religious rituals like the evening Aarti.
- Use Local Transport: Rickshaws, taxis, and boats are the most convenient way to travel short distances in Varanasi. Always agree on the fare beforehand.
- Book Guided Tours: For a deeper understanding of the city’s history and spiritual significance, consider hiring a local guide for temple tours or boat rides.
By following this itinerary, you’ll be able to experience the best of Varanasi — from its ancient temples and ghats to its serene river views and spiritual ambiance. It’s a trip that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.