Overview
Traveling from Agra to Varanasi (formerly known as Benares or Banaras) offers a journey through history, spirituality, and cultural heritage. Here’s a suggested itinerary for a tour from Agra to Varanasi:
### Day 1: Agra to Varanasi
**Morning: Departure from Agra**
– Leave Agra in the morning and start your journey to Varanasi. The distance between Agra and Varanasi is approximately 630 kilometers, so consider taking a flight for a faster journey.
**Afternoon: Arrival in Varanasi**
– Arrive in Varanasi in the afternoon and check into your hotel.
**Evening: Ganga Aarti**
– Experience the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony on the ghats of the Ganges River. Witness the priests performing rituals with fire, incense, and chanting, creating a spiritually uplifting atmosphere.
### Day 2: Varanasi Exploration
**Morning: Sunrise Boat Ride**
– Start your day with a serene boat ride on the Ganges River during sunrise. Witness the city come to life as you glide along the ghats and observe pilgrims performing their morning rituals.
**Mid-morning: Visit Sarnath**
– Take a trip to Sarnath, located just a few kilometers from Varanasi. It’s the place where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. Explore the Dhamek Stupa, Mulagandha Kuti Vihar, and Sarnath Museum, which houses ancient Buddhist artifacts.
**Afternoon: Explore Varanasi**
– Return to Varanasi and spend the afternoon exploring the city’s narrow lanes, bustling markets, and historic temples. Visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the holiest temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, and the nearby Annapurna Temple.
**Evening: Evening Aarti and Cultural Show**
– Attend another Aarti ceremony in the evening for a different perspective, followed by a cultural show showcasing the traditional music and dance of Varanasi.
### Day 3: Varanasi Sightseeing
**Morning: Varanasi Temples**
– Begin your day by visiting other significant temples in Varanasi, such as the Durga Temple, Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, and Tulsi Manas Temple.
**Mid-day: Banarasi Silk Shopping**
– Explore the vibrant markets of Varanasi, especially renowned for its exquisite Banarasi silk sarees and fabrics. Take some time to shop for souvenirs and traditional items.
**Afternoon: Free Time or Optional Activities**
– Enjoy some free time to relax or explore more of Varanasi independently. You can also opt for additional activities like a cooking class to learn about the local cuisine or a walking tour to discover hidden gems.
**Evening: Ganga Aarti and Farewell**
– Attend the Ganga Aarti ceremony one last time to bid farewell to Varanasi and its spiritual ambiance.
### Day 4: Departure from Varanasi
**Morning: Departure**
– Depending on your onward travel plans, you can either depart from Varanasi in the morning or spend some additional time exploring the city before your departure.
This itinerary provides a glimpse into the spiritual and cultural richness of Varanasi, allowing you to immerse yourself in its ancient traditions and vibrant atmosphere. Adjustments can be made based on your preferences and available time.