Assi Ghat: Start your journey at Assi Ghat, where the river Assi meets the Ganges. It’s a quieter ghat with a beautiful temple and is a great spot for sunrise.
Dashashwamedh Ghat: Visit this iconic ghat in the evening to witness the stunning Ganga Aarti ceremony.
Manikarnika Ghat: Known as the main cremation ghat, it offers a unique insight into local traditions and rituals. (Note: It can be quite intense, so use your discretion.)
Mahan Shivratri Temple: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas in India.
Where to Eat:
Blue Lasso: Enjoy international cuisine with a beautiful view of the Ganges at Blue Lasso.
Kachori Ganpati: Try the famous kachoris and jalebis at this popular street food joint.
Brown Bread Bakery: For a delicious breakfast, visit Brown Bread Bakery for their variety of breads, pastries, and sandwiches.
Where to Stay:
Tulsi Ganges: Overlooking the river, this hotel offers luxury and comfort.
Zostel Varanasi: A budget-friendly hostel with a great atmosphere and amenities.
The Gateway Hotel Ganges: A higher-end option located on Rajghat, offering stunning views of the Ganges.
Things to Know:
Respect local customs and traditions during your visit.
Always remove your shoes when entering temples or holy sites.
Haggling is common in markets, but prices are usually clearly posted for tourist items.
Be prepared for crowds, especially at the ghats during sunrise, sunset, and aarti ceremonies.
Tipping is appreciated in restaurants and for services like boat rides.
Day 2: Sarnath & Ancient Temples
Places to Go:
Sarnath: Visit this ancient Buddhist site where Gautama Buddha first taught Dharma after his enlightenment.
Thai Temple: Admire the beautiful architecture and peaceful atmosphere of this Thai monastery.
Dhamek Stupa: Marvel at the largest stupa in Sarnath, built by Emperor Ashoka in 250 BC.
Mulgandha Kuti Vihar: Explore this serene Buddhist temple and monastery complex.
Where to Eat:
Sarnath Food Plaza: Enjoy a variety of vegetarian dishes at this popular eatery near Sarnath.
The Golden Temple Restaurant: Try some delicious North Indian cuisine at this restaurant near Sarnath.
Day 3: Exploring the City
Places to Go:
Vishwanath Temple: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, visit this famous temple located in the heart of the city.
Benaras Hindu University (BHU): Stroll around the beautiful campus and visit its various museums and temples.
Ramnagar Fort: Explore this 18th-century fort with its collection of royal artifacts and weapons.
Museum of Tribal & Folk Art: Discover the rich cultural heritage of India’s tribal communities at this museum.
Where to Eat:
Shree Bindia Sweets: Satisfy your sweet tooth with delicious local sweets like laddoos and pedas.
Pawan Restaurant: Try some traditional Banarasi cuisine, including the famous Banarasi paan.
Day 4: Departure
Things to Do:
Spend your final hours in Varanasi exploring any remaining sights or revisiting favorite spots.
Pick up souvenirs from the local markets like Benarasi silk fabrics, brassware, and miniature paintings.
Enjoy a boat ride on the Ganges one last time before bidding farewell to this ancient city.
Transportation:
Auto-rickshaws are the most common mode of transportation within the city.
Taxis can be booked through apps like Ola or Uber, and rickshaws can also be hired for longer journeys.
Cycling is another popular way to explore the city, with bike rentals available at many hotels and tourist spots.