This itinerary covers some of the most popular and significant sights in Varanasi, but you can adjust it based on your interests and pace. It’s recommended to hire a local guide to gain a deeper understanding of the city’s rich history and culture.
Day 1:
5:00 AM – 7:00 AM
Start your day early by taking a sunrise boat ride on the sacred River Ganges. Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat.
7:30 AM – 9:30 AM
After the boat ride, explore the famous Ghats (riverfront steps) like Assi Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, and Dashashwamedh Ghat, where you can observe various Hindu rituals and people bathing in the holy waters.
10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
Visit the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most revered Shiva temples in India. (Note: Non-Hindus are not allowed inside the main temple, but you can see the exterior and nearby markets.)
12:00 PM – 1:30 PM: Lunch Break
– Vegetarian option: Sample the famous Banarasi delicacies like tamatar chaat, malaiyu, and matar kulcha at Deena Chaat Bhandaar or Madhur Milan.
– Non-vegetarian option: Indulge in the flavorful Banarasi kebabs, biryani, and kormas at Sage & Jokers or Kebab Bazar.
2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Spend time wandering through the narrow lanes and bylanes of Varanasi, known as Galis. Explore the vibrant street markets, such as Vishwanath Gali and Chowk, where you can find traditional handicrafts, silk sarees, and more.
6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Experience the magical Ganga Aarti ceremony again at Dashashwamedh Ghat, where the evening ritual is more elaborate and captivating.
8:30 PM – 10:00 PM: Dinner
– Vegetarian option: Relish the famous Banarasi thandai (a creamy, spiced milk drink) and paan (betel leaf preparation) at Jew’s Thandai or Ram Bhandar.
– Non-vegetarian option: Savor the authentic Banarasi cuisine like Galawati kebab, Banarasi tawa chicken, and mutton curry at Ganga Vatika or Chhotu Motu Joshi.
Day 2:
8:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Visit the Banaras Hindu University (BHU) and explore the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, which houses an excellent collection of Indian art, sculptures, and artifacts.
10:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Take a walking tour of the Buddhist sites in Varanasi, including the famous Sarnath, where Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. Visit the Dhamek Stupa and the Archaeological Museum.
12:30 PM – 2:00 PM: Lunch Break
– Vegetarian option: Enjoy a thali (platter with multiple dishes) at Maharaja or Chhotu Motu Joshi.
– Non-vegetarian option: Savor the Awadhi cuisine like Biryani, Korma, and Kebabs at Baati Chokha or Dosa Café.
2:30 PM – 4:30 PM
Explore the Ramnagar Fort and Museum, a 17th-century fort and palace located across the Ganges, offering panoramic views of the city and the river.
5:00 PM – 6:30 PM
Take a relaxing boat ride on the Ganges and witness the evening activities along the Ghats.
7:00 PM onwards: Dinner and Shopping
– Vegetarian option: Try the famous Banarasi sweets like Petha, Malaiyyo, and Gughiya at Shree Rathyatra Misthan Bhandar or Chandan Halwai.
– Non-vegetarian option: Indulge in the rich Awadhi cuisine at Ahmadabad Shahi Tukda or Baati Chokha.
You can also explore the local markets like Godowlia and Thatheri Bazaar for shopping and picking up souvenirs.
Throughout the two days, you can opt for local street food like lassi (sweet yogurt drink), chaat (savory snacks), and jalebi (sweet pretzel-like snack) from the various street vendors.