Welcome, Musafirs! Varanasi is older than history, older than tradition, a place where life, death, and devotion happen openly along the banks of the sacred River Ganga. This city is not just a place you visit; it’s an experience you absorb.
This 3 Days and 2 Nights Varanasi Itinerary is designed to immerse you in the rituals, history, and spiritual energy of the world’s oldest living city.
🙏 Varanasi Itinerary: 3 Days, 2 Nights
For the best experience, stay in a hotel or guesthouse near Assi Ghat or Dashashwamedh Ghat to easily access the river and the narrow alleys (galis).
| Day | Focus | Morning Activity (Approx. 5:30 AM – 1:00 PM) | Afternoon Activity (Approx. 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM) | Evening (Approx. 6:00 PM Onwards) |
| Day 1 | Ghats, Temples, & Aarti | Sunrise Boat Ride & Ghat Walk: Start with a mesmerizing rowboat ride on the Ganga at sunrise (5:30 AM). Witness morning rituals and cremation ceremonies at Manikarnika Ghat. | Old City Alleys & Temple Visits: Walk the labyrinthine narrow alleys (galis). Visit the ancient Kaal Bhairav Temple and browse the famous Banarasi silk shops. | Grand Ganga Aarti: Secure a spot (early is better) at Dashashwamedh Ghat to witness the spectacular, energetic evening Ganga Aarti ceremony. |
| Day 2 | Buddhist History & BHU | Subah-e-Banaras & Temple Circuit: Witness the sunrise ceremony at Assi Ghat (Subah-e-Banaras). Afterward, visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple (the main Shiva temple) and the nearby Annapurna Temple. | Excursion to Sarnath: Drive 10 km to Sarnath, the holy site where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. Visit the Dhamek Stupa, Chaukhandi Stupa, and the Archaeological Museum (closed on Fridays). | BHU & Serene Ganga: Visit the Banaras Hindu University (BHU) campus and the New Kashi Vishwanath Temple (Birla Temple) inside. Enjoy the quiet atmosphere and dinner. |
| Day 3 | Culture, Food, & Farewell | Ramnagar Fort & Food Walk: Visit Ramnagar Fort (residence of the Kashi Naresh, the former Maharaja). Afterwards, take a final walk to try famous Indori street food (like Kachori Sabzi or Malaiyyo in winter). | Sankat Mochan & Durga Temple: Visit the famous Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple and the nearby unique red stone Durga Temple (Monkey Temple). | Departure: Final shopping for Banarasi Paan and local sweets before transfer to the airport or railway station. |
🍽️ Varanasi’s Must-Try Local Delicacies
Varanasi is a foodie paradise. Make sure your journey includes these sensory experiences:
- Paan: The legendary Banarasi Paan is a must-try digestif.
- Malaiyyo: A delicate, saffron-flavored, creamy dessert (available only during winter months).
- Lassi & Thandai: Try a cooling glass of local lassi, especially from the famous Blue Lassi Shop.
- Kachori Sabzi: The essential spicy breakfast of crispy kachoris with potato curry.
- Chaat: Sample local chaat varieties like Tamatar Chaat and Aloo Tikki from street vendors.
💡 Musafir Diary Pro Tips for Kashi Yatra
- Temple Security: High security measures are in place for the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Phones, cameras, and large bags are usually not allowed inside. Use nearby lockers.
- Best View of Aarti: While watching from the ghat steps is intense, renting a boat offers a serene, slightly elevated view of the entire ceremony.
- Transport: Auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws are the primary transport. Be prepared to negotiate, or use the convenient “jugadu” taxis for longer trips like Sarnath.
Varanasi leaves an indelible mark on the soul. Prepare for a spiritual journey you won’t soon forget!
