Arrive at Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport or Varanasi Railway Station. Our representative will meet you and transfer you to the hotel. Check-in at the hotel and freshen up. In the evening, visit the Dashashwamedh Ghat for the famous Ganga Aarti. Explore the local markets and taste the delicious Varanasi street food. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Ganga Aarti Ceremoney:

The Ganga Aarti Ceremony in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, is a grand spiritual ritual performed every evening at Dashashwamedh Ghat. Priests dressed in traditional attire perform synchronized movements with large brass lamps (diyas), incense, and conch shells, offering prayers to the Ganga River. The ceremony is accompanied by Vedic chants, ringing bells, and devotional music, creating a mesmerizing atmosphere. Thousands of devotees and tourists gather to witness this divine spectacle, either from the ghat or on boat rides in the river. The best time to attend is after sunset, making it a must-experience event in Varanasi.

Start the day with an early morning visit to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most revered temples in Hinduism. Explore other important temples like Annapurna Temple, Kal Bhairav Temple, Durga Temple (Monkey Temple), and Tulsi Manas Mandir. Enjoy free time for shopping in the local bazaars. Overnight stay in Varanasi.

Kashi Vishwanath Temple:

Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, is one of the holiest Hindu temples, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Situated on the banks of the Ganges, it is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, making it a significant pilgrimage site. The temple has been rebuilt multiple times, with the current structure being completed by Rani Ahilyabai Holkar in 1780. The gold-plated spire, donated by Maharaja Ranjit Singh, adds to its grandeur. Devotees believe that a visit to this temple grants moksha (liberation). The temple complex also includes the newly built Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, enhancing the pilgrimage experience.

Kal Bhairav Temple:

Kal Bhairav Temple in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, is one of the oldest and most revered temples dedicated to Lord Kal Bhairav, a fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva. Also known as the "Kotwal of Kashi" (Guardian of Varanasi), it is believed that no one can stay in Varanasi without his permission. The temple’s deity is depicted wearing a garland of skulls, symbolizing time, death, and justice. A unique tradition here is offering mustard oil and alcohol to the deity. Devotees visit the temple seeking protection, blessings, and the removal of obstacles in life.

Take a day trip to Sarnath, where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon. Explore the Dhamek Stupa, Chaukhandi Stupa, and Sarnath Museum. In the evening, enjoy a boat ride on the Ganges and stroll around the ancient streets of Varanasi. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Chaukhandi Stupa:

Chaukhandi Stupa is an ancient Buddhist monument in Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh, marking the site where Lord Buddha first met his five disciples after attaining enlightenment. Originally built as a burial mound during the Gupta period (4th–6th century CE), it was later expanded by Mughal emperor Akbar in the 16th century, who added an octagonal tower to honor his father, Humayun. The stupa is surrounded by lush greenery, making it a peaceful site for visitors and pilgrims. It is an important landmark reflecting Buddhist heritage and Mughal influence.

Sarnath Museum:

Sarnath Museum, located in Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh, is the oldest site museum of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Established in 1910, it houses a rich collection of artifacts from Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain traditions, excavated from Sarnath. The museum's most famous exhibit is the Lion Capital of Ashoka, which is India’s national emblem. Other highlights include Buddha statues, ancient inscriptions, and stupas from the 3rd century BCE to the 12th century CE. The museum provides deep insights into India’s ancient art, history, and Buddhism.

Visit the Ramnagar Fort, the royal residence of the Varanasi king. Explore the Bharat Mata Temple and Banaras Hindu University (BHU). Experience the cultural vibe of Varanasi with a classical music & dance program (optional). Overnight stay in Varanasi.

Bharat Mata Temple:

Bharat Mata Temple in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, is a unique temple dedicated to Mother India instead of any deity. Built in 1936 by Babu Shiv Prasad Gupta, a freedom fighter, it houses a marble relief map of India, depicting mountains, rivers, and plains with great accuracy. Unlike traditional temples, it does not have idols and represents nationalism and unity. The temple was inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi, emphasizing India’s cultural and geographical richness. It is a must-visit for those interested in history, patriotism, and architectural uniqueness.

Banaras Hindu University:

Banaras Hindu University (BHU) is one of India’s most prestigious universities, located in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. Founded in 1916 by Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya, it is spread over 1,300 acres, making it one of Asia’s largest residential universities. The campus is home to over 30,000 students and features notable landmarks like the Shri Vishwanath Temple (New Kashi Vishwanath Temple), Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, and BHU Library. The university is a center for higher learning, research, and cultural activities, contributing significantly to India’s education and heritage.

Take an early morning boat ride to experience the sunrise over the Ganges. Walk through the Assi Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, and Harishchandra Ghat. Check-out from the hotel and transfer to the airport/railway station for departure.

Assi Ghat:

Assi Ghat is one of the most famous and vibrant ghats in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, located at the confluence of the Ganga and Assi rivers. It is a popular spot for pilgrims, tourists, and locals, known for its serene atmosphere, sunrise boat rides, and spiritual activities. Devotees take a holy dip in the river before visiting nearby temples, including the Shiva Lingam under a Peepal tree. The ghat hosts the famous Subah-e-Banaras program, featuring morning Ganga Aarti, classical music, and yoga sessions. It is a perfect place to experience the spiritual essence of Varanasi.

Manikarnika Ghat:

Manikarnika Ghat is the holiest and most significant cremation ghat in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. It is believed that cremation here grants moksha (liberation from the cycle of rebirth), making it a revered site for Hindus. According to mythology, Goddess Parvati’s earring (Manikarnika) fell here, and Lord Shiva declared it a sacred place for attaining salvation. The ghat operates 24/7, with continuous funeral pyres burning, symbolizing the eternal cycle of life and death. Despite its somber nature, it offers a deep spiritual experience, reflecting the philosophy of impermanence in Hinduism.

Harishchandra Ghat:

Harishchandra Ghat is one of the oldest and most sacred cremation ghats in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. Named after King Harishchandra, who is believed to have worked here as a cremator to uphold truth and dharma, the ghat holds deep spiritual significance. It is one of the two main cremation sites in Varanasi, alongside Manikarnika Ghat, where Hindus believe that attaining cremation leads to moksha (liberation from the cycle of rebirth). The ghat operates 24/7, witnessing continuous funeral rites and rituals. Despite its solemn nature, it provides a profound insight into Hindu beliefs on life, death, and salvation.