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5 Days in Varanasi: A Spiritual Journey

Kanak Bandivadekar

Kanak Bandivadekar

21 Nov 2023

Embark on a soul-stirring adventure through the ancient city of Varanasi, where spirituality and history intertwine. Discover sacred temples, serene gardens, and fascinating museums as you immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Uttar Pradesh, India.

Day 1Divine Encounters at Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple and Man Singh Observatory
+

$8

Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Landmark riverside temple to Shiva, known for its 18th-century gold-plated spire and sacred well.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Free
4 - 6 min

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Directions

Man Singh Observatory
Historic 1700s observatory attached to a palace, offering views of the Ganges River from its roof.
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
$8
Day 2Unveiling the Buddhist Legacy at Sarnath Buddhist Temple and Chaukhandi Stupa, and Finding Inner Peace at the Garden of Spiritual Wisdom and Shri Satyanarayan Tulsi Manas Mandir
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$21

·

$ 1

Sarnath Buddhist Temple
Expansive Buddhist temple complex with a museum, multiple shrines & an archaeological excavation.
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
$6
12 - 18 min

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Directions

Chaukhandi Stupa
This historical Buddhist stupa features a sizable mound with a brick base & octagonal tower.
9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
$4
2 - 3 min

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Directions

Garden of Spiritual Wisdom
Picturesque gardens offering tranquil pathways amid lush surrounds & spiritual sculptures.
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
$4
38 - 46 min

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Directions

Shri Satyanarayan Tulsi Manas Mandir
Stately Hindu temple with white marble construction, landscaped gardens & numerous engravings.
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
$8
Day 3Exploring the Ancient Stupa of Dhamekh in Sarnath and Witnessing the Rituals at Manikarnika Ghat
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$19

·

$ 1

Dhamekh Stupa, Sarnath
Circular stone 43m-tall Buddhist shrine with bird & script carvings, dating back to 500 CE.
8:00 AM - 9:30 AM
$11
31 - 38 min

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Directions

Manikarnika Ghat - Manikarnika Mahashamshan Ghat
One of the city's oldest ghats, this iconic site is a storied spot for traditional Hindu cremations.
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
$8
Day 4Immerse in Art and History at Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, and Experience the Vibrant Atmosphere of Dashashwamedh Ghat
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$15

·

$ 1

Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum
University museum focused on art & archeology, with sculptures, paintings, jewelry, textiles & more.
8:00 AM - 9:30 AM
$15
23 - 28 min

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Directions

Dashashwamedh Ghat
Bustling riverside steps down to the Ganges River, used for religious rituals daily.
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Free

Budget breakdown: $65 In total

Activities & Food:$63
Transport:$3