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10 Days in Varanasi: Unveiling the Sacred City

Grace Kumar

Grace Kumar

9 Jan 2024

Embark on a spiritual journey through the ancient city of Varanasi, where the divine and earthly realms intertwine. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage, witness breathtaking temples, explore historic ghats, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of this holy city.

Trip to Varanasi

Day 1Temples and Pillars of Tranquility
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$20

·

$ 1

Nepali Temple
Commissioned by an exiled 19th-century Nepalese king, this terracotta temple is dedicated to Shiva.
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
•
$10
8 - 12 min

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Directions

Alamgir Masjid
Mughal-style, 17th-century mosque with 3 huge domes & steps nearby for ritual bathing in the Ganges.
9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
•
$5
24 - 29 min

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Directions

Ashoka Pillar
Glass enclosure containing sandstone remains of an ancient column built by Emperor Ashoka.
11:00 AM - 11:30 AM
•
$5
Day 2Mosques and Mandirs: A Divine Encounter
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$15

·

$ 1

Gyanvapi Mosque
Venerable mosque on a historic site featuring traditional architecture with columns & domes.
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
•
$5
20 - 24 min

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Directions

Shri Satyanarayan Tulsi Manas Mandir
Stately Hindu temple with white marble construction, landscaped gardens & numerous engravings.
9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
•
$10
Day 3Fun and Adventure at Varanasi Fun City
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$20

Varanasi Fun City
Small water park with slides, a wave pool & play fountains for splashing, plus animal statues.
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
•
$20
Day 4Ghat Exploration and Artistic Delights
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$15

·

$ 1

Manikarnika Ghat - Manikarnika Mahashamshan Ghat
One of the city's oldest ghats, this iconic site is a storied spot for traditional Hindu cremations.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
•
$10
15 - 18 min

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Directions

Ruchika Art Gallery
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
•
$5
Day 5Seeking Blessings at Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple
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$0

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
Day 6Glimpses of Divinity and Serenity
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$10

·

$ 1

Dashashwamedh Ghat
Bustling riverside steps down to the Ganges River, used for religious rituals daily.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
•
Free
32 - 39 min

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Directions

DURGA DEVI TEMPLE (SHRI KOTMATA MANDIR)
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
•
$10
Day 7Temples by the Ganges and Majestic Forts
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$13

·

$ 1

Mrityunjay Mahadev Mandir SamneGhat
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
•
$5
6 - 8 min

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Directions

Ramnagar Fort
Sandstone fort & royal residence with a museum that has vintage cars, costumes, an armory & more.
9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
•
$8
Day 8Buddhist Temples and Japanese Serenity
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$13

Sarnath Buddhist Temple
Expansive Buddhist temple complex with a museum, multiple shrines & an archaeological excavation.
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
•
$8
7 - 10 min

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Directions

Japanese Temple
9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
•
$5
Day 9Stupas, Hanuman Mandir, and Vihar
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$20

Chaukhandi Stupa
This historical Buddhist stupa features a sizable mound with a brick base & octagonal tower.
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
•
$5
5 - 8 min

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Directions

Sankat Mochan Hanuman Mandir
9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
•
$5
10 - 15 min

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Directions

Mulagandha Kuti Vihar
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
•
$10
Day 10Ancient Stupas and Artistic Marvels
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$35

·

$ 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
•
$15
47 - 57 min

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Directions

Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum
University museum focused on art & archeology, with sculptures, paintings, jewelry, textiles & more.
10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
•
$20

Budget breakdown: $167 In total

Activities & Food:$161
Transport:$6