Arrival & Check-in
Arrive in Varanasi (nearest airport Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, nearest railway station Varanasi Junction). Check into your accommodation, ideally near the main ghats or in the Old City.
Travel: To Varanasi
Time: Morning/Afternoon
Ghats & Aarti
Dashashwamedh Ghat & Evening Ganga Aarti
Head directly to Dashashwamedh Ghat, the most vibrant ghat. Spend the evening witnessing the spectacular Ganga Aarti ceremony, a spiritual ritual performed by priests.
Location: Dashashwamedh Ghat
Entry: Free
Time: Evening (1.5-2 hours)
Riverside Rituals
Morning Boat Ride & Exploring Main Ghats
Start your day with a serene sunrise boat ride on the Ganges, witnessing the morning rituals along the ghats. Afterwards, walk along the main ghats, observing daily life and spiritual practices.
Location: Ganges River, various ghats
Cost: Boat ride fee applies
Time: Morning (2-3 hours)
Sacred Sites
Kashi Vishwanath Temple & Annapurna Temple
Visit the revered Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most famous Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Nearby, explore the Annapurna Temple. Both are located in the narrow lanes of the Old City.
Location: Old City, near Dashashwamedh Ghat
Entry: Free (donations welcome)
Time: 2-3 hours (can be crowded)
Beyond the Ghats
Sarnath (Optional) or Local Markets & Street Food
Optionally, take a trip to Sarnath (approx. 10 km), where Buddha delivered his first sermon, visiting the Dhamek Stupa and museum. Alternatively, immerse yourself in Varanasi's vibrant local markets and savor its famous street food.
Location: Sarnath (outside city) or Old City markets
Travel: Sarnath requires taxi/auto
Time: 3-4 hours
Departure
Departure from Varanasi
Conclude your spiritual and cultural journey and proceed for departure from Varanasi.
Travel: From Varanasi
Time: Afternoon/Evening
Budget Accommodation Options in Varanasi
For budget stays, look for hostels and dharamshalas in the **Dashashwamedh Ghat area**, **Assi Ghat area**, or the narrow lanes of the **Old City** for direct access to the river and temples.
