Visit the Ghats: Explore the famous ghats (steps leading down to the riverbank) along the holy River Ganges. Take a boat ride at sunrise or sunset to witness the spectacular Aarti ceremony, a devotional ritual involving fire and chanting, performed by priests.
Attend Ganga Aarti: Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat. It is a grand ceremony where priests perform rituals, wave incense, oil lamps, and offer prayers to the river. The spiritual atmosphere is truly enchanting.
Take a Dip in the Ganges: Participate in the ancient tradition of taking a holy dip in the Ganges. It is believed to cleanse one’s sins and purify the soul. The most popular bathing ghats are Dashashwamedh Ghat and Assi Ghat.
Explore Varanasi Old City: Wander through the narrow lanes and alleys of Varanasi’s Old City, which is a bustling maze of shops, temples, and traditional homes. Immerse yourself in the vibrant street life, witness local artisans at work, and try the delicious street food.
Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Pay a visit to the revered Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the most sacred Hindu temples and an important pilgrimage site. Note that non-Hindus are not allowed inside the main sanctum.
Discover Sarnath: Take a short trip to Sarnath, located just outside Varanasi. It is a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site where Gautama Buddha gave his first sermon. Explore the Dhamek Stupa, Mulagandhakuti Vihara, and the Archaeological Museum to learn about Buddhism’s history.
Enjoy a Boat Ride: Experience the tranquility of the Ganges with a boat ride. Witness the city’s vibrant ghats, ancient temples, and the enchanting riverfront view. You can hire a boat for a few hours or opt for a sunrise/sunset boat tour.
Explore the Banaras Hindu University (BHU): Visit the sprawling campus of Banaras Hindu University, one of the largest residential universities in Asia. Explore its magnificent buildings, lush gardens, and the Bharat Kala Bhavan museum, which houses a remarkable collection of art and artifacts.
Taste Varanasi Cuisine: Indulge in the local cuisine of Varanasi, known for its distinctive flavors. Try mouth-watering street food like kachori, chaat, lassi, and the famous Banarasi paan (betel leaf). Don’t miss the traditional sweets like malaiyo and rabri.
Attend a Classical Music Concert: Varanasi has a rich musical heritage, and you can immerse yourself in the classical music and dance traditions by attending a live performance. Look for concerts featuring sitar, tabla, sarod, or Kathak dance to experience the city’s cultural vibrancy.
