Varanasi 5 Day Itinerary

Varanasi 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Morning

  • Arrive in Varanasi and check-in at Hotel Alka or similar
  • Start your day with a visit to the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas in India
  • Take a stroll along the Ganges River and witness the morning rituals and prayers

Afternoon

  • Visit the Bharat Mata Mandir, a temple dedicated to Mother India
  • Explore the narrow alleys and streets of Varanasi Old City, discovering hidden gems and local markets
  • Stop by at Thatheri Bazaar for a taste of local street food and shopping

Evening

  • Enjoy a sunset cruise on the Ganges River with Varanasi River Cruises
  • Savor delicious Banarasi cuisine at Kashi Chat House or similar

Day 2: Spiritual Encounters

Morning

  • Take a morning boat ride to the Assi Ghat, a scenic spot for yoga and meditation
  • Visit the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, a revered shrine dedicated to Lord Hanuman
  • Attend a Yoga Session at Ramamani Iyengar Yoga Institute

Afternoon

  • Explore the Benaras Hindu University (BHU) Campus, one of India’s largest residential universities
  • Visit the New Vishwanath Temple, a beautiful shrine with intricate carvings and architecture

Evening

  • Enjoy a Candlelit Dinner at The Gateway Hotel Ganges
  • Witness the Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat, a spiritual experience like no other

Day 3: Excursion to Sarnath

Morning

  • Take a day trip to Sarnath, a sacred Buddhist site ( approx. 10 km from Varanasi)
  • Visit the Dhamek Stupa, a majestic monument commemorating Buddha’s first sermon
  • Explore the Sarnath Museum, housing ancient artifacts and relics

Afternoon

  • Stop by at Tulsi Manas Temple, a beautiful shrine dedicated to Lord Rama
  • Return to Varanasi and spend some time relaxing at your hotel or exploring the local markets

Day 4: Cultural Immersion

Morning

  • Attend a Classical Music Session at Sarangi Sanskritik Kendra
  • Visit the Banaras Art Gallery, showcasing local art and handicrafts
  • Explore the Jnana Pravaha, a unique museum dedicated to Indian knowledge systems

Afternoon

Evening

  • Enjoy a Rooftop Dinner at The Grand Ganges
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the ghats, absorbing the vibrant atmosphere of Varanasi

Day 5: Departure

Morning

  • Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or exploring local markets
  • Check-out from your hotel and depart for the airport or railway station

Transportation

  • Flights: Varanasi Airport (VNS) is well connected to major Indian cities
  • Trains: Varanasi Junction Railway Station is a major hub, with frequent trains to Delhi, Kolkata, and other cities
  • Taxis and Rickshaws: Available for local transportation

Tips and Essentials

  • Dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees when visiting temples and ghats
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially during spiritual ceremonies
  • Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun
  • Be prepared for crowds and chaos in Old City alleys
  • Try local cuisine, including Banarasi kachoris, tamatar chaat, and lassis
  • Haggle at markets, but be respectful of vendors and their wares

Other Things to Know

  • Varanasi is a sacred city, with many temples and shrines; be mindful of your behavior and dress
  • The Ganges River is considered holy, so avoid littering or polluting the water
  • Power outages can occur, so it’s a good idea to carry a portable charger and flashlight
  • Varanasi has a rich cultural heritage, with many festivals and celebrations throughout the year; be sure to check local event calendars

Accommodation

  • Hotel Alka: A comfortable, centrally located hotel with modern amenities
  • The Gateway Hotel Ganges: A luxurious hotel with stunning views of the Ganges River
  • The Grand Ganges: A heritage hotel offering a unique blend of traditional and modern comforts