Varanasi (Kashi) and Ayodhya are India’s two most sacred and ancient cities.
Varanasi (also known as Kashi or Banaras) is known as the “City of Lord Shiva.” It’s the world’s oldest living city, famous for the holy River Ganga and the Ghats (steps) where life and death rituals happen daily. It is believed to grant spiritual freedom (moksha) to anyone who dies there.
Ayodhya is the birthplace of Lord Rama. Everything here feels quieter and calmer, centered around the beautiful new temple and the gentle Saryu River.
My goal is simple: As your guide,I’ll help you explore these two amazing cities. We’ll connect the intense, vibrant world of Shiva’s Varanasi with the quiet, peaceful devotion of Rama’s Ayodhya. When our trip is over, you won’t just have photos—you’ll have a complete, unforgettable story of faith and history. Let’s make some memories together!
Ready to check out the 3-Day Itinerary for our trip?
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Day 1: Varanasi
To make the most of our trip, here’s the game plan: Let’s aim to arrive in Varanasi early in the morning. That crucial early start means we gain a whole day of sightseeing, making it our action-packed Day 1!
Morning: Ramnagar Fort
Begin your day with a visit to Ramnagar Fort. The fort welcomes visitors from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM and features a palace museum showcasing vintage cars, royal costumes, and rare artifacts. You can travel to the fort by auto, cab, or even boat from Assi Ghat.
pro tip :- The best arrival time at Ramnagar Fort to avoid crowds is early morning right at the opening time of 10:00 AM.For the latest entry ticket price you can check on the counter.
Lunch: Bati Choka Restaurant
After exploring the fort, enjoy the famous Bati Choka meal at Bati Choka Restaurant. This traditional dish is a highlight of Varanasi cuisine and offers a unique local flavor. The restaurant is popular among both tourists and locals for its authenticity.
pro tip :- For just ₹300–₹400 per person, you get a super filling and authentic meal.They have multiple branches, so check for the one closest to us that day.
Afternoon: Sankatmochan & Durga Temple
Post-lunch, head to Sankatmochan Temple,dedicated to Lord Hanuman. Next, visit Durga Temple, known for its vibrant architecture and spiritual ambiance. Both temples are close to the city center and are easily accessible.
pro tip :- We’re aiming for 3:30 PM. Try to avoid visiting any temples between 12pm to 3 PM as they are closed.
Evening: Ghats and Boat Ride
This is my personal favorite part! We’ll use a boat to get the perfect view of all the glowing Ghats(88 ghats), leading up to the incredible Ganga Aarti ending right in front of the Dashashwamedh Ghat. It’s a powerful, goosebump-inducing experience!
pro tip :- While many boats are available , I personally recommend the Alaknanda Cruiseline. They are absolutely top-notch! For about ₹700–₹1000, you get two hours of prime viewing, plus they keep you comfortable with free tea, coffee, cookies, and mineral water.
NOTE :- The boat ride and Aarti usually run from 6 PM to 8 PM. Once that wraps up, we’ll be ready to hit the street for some amazing local food like :
Banarasi Paan (Keshav Paan Bhandar (Near Rathyatra/Ravidas Gate) or Kuber Paan Bhandar (Near Godowlia)).
Famous Chaat (Kashi Chat Bhandar or Deena Chat Bhandar (Both near Godowlia).
Traditional Lassi (Blue Lassi Shop (Near Manikarnika Ghat) or Pehelwan Lassi (Near Lanka/Ravidas Gate)).
Day 2: Varanasi
Morning: Kal Bhairav Temple
Start early morning with a visit to the Kal Bhairav Temple, which opens around 5:00 AM. According to tradition, devotees visit Kal Bhairav first because he is considered the guardian of Kashi (Varanasi) who grants permission to devotees to worship in the city. Visiting Kal Bhairav first is believed to remove obstacles and ensure a smooth spiritual journey in Kashi (Varanasi).
pro tip :- The temple is small and can get extremely crowded. Since you are going early in the morning, you have already chosen the best time to experience the intense devotion with less chaos.Be sure to receive the sacred black thread (Bhairav Raksha Sutra) from the priest. This thread, charged with the deity’s fierce protective energy, is worn on the wrist.
Morning: Kashi Vishwanath Temple
After getting the Guardian’s blessing, we head to the main event: the powerful Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
pro tip :- To skip the long general queues, book a Sugam Darshan (Paid/VIP Ticket) online through the temple’s official website before your visit. It’s a small fee but saves you a lot of time and effort.
After the temple visit is over let’s grab a quick, traditional breakfast (like Kachori-Sabzi) and then we need to be ready to drive to Sarnath.
Afternoon: Trip to Sarnath
In the afternoon, we will go to Sarnath, the significant Buddhist pilgrimage site where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon. Sarnath is located about 10 km from Varanasi and offers a peaceful contrast to the spiritual intensity of Kashi’s temples.Here we will visit Dhamek Stupa, Archaeological Museum, and Buddhist sites.
pro tip :- While Sarnath has great historical value, its best feature is the quiet atmosphere. Take 15 minutes to sit near the Dhamek Stupa in silence—it’s a perfect moment of calm reflection before hitting the road.
Evening: Banaras Hindu University
We’ll grab lunch and then drive through the massive Banaras Hindu University (BHU) campus. We’ll stop to see the beautiful New Vishwanath Temple (Birla Temple)—a modern, clean contrast to the ancient one!
pro tip :- Before leaving, grab the famously creamy and affordable cold coffee from Om Cold Corner (VT Café), a legendary student favorite right near the BHU campus!
In the evening after our big temple visits, you can explore the city for shopping, especially for exquisite Banarasi silk sarees. Also, don’t miss trying the remaining street foods, including Malaiyo (a seasonal winter delicacy) which is available during the winter months only and Malai Toast.
Day 3: Ayodhya Arrival & Evening
As our two unforgettable days in Banaras come to an end, we’ll finally take a well-deserved rest tonight.In the early morning, we’ll either take a bus or train, depending on convenience and timing.
The distance between Varanasi and Ayodhya is approximately 220 kilometers, which usually takes 4 to 5 hours by road or 3 hours by train.
🧳 Personal Note:
I, along with my friends, personally chose the Vande Bharat Express for this journey — it was smooth, comfortable, and gave us enough time to relax and chat while enjoying the countryside views.
After your arrival in the afternoon, the first step is to check into your accommodation, have your lunch, and refresh yourself for the evening.
Evening: Prabhu Shri Ram Lala Darshan
You will start the evening with a visit to the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir for the Darshan of Ram Lalla Sarkar.
pro tip :- The temple typically reopens for the evening session around 2:00 PM and remains open until 8:00 PM.Carry minimum belongings as security is very strict. You may need to deposit phones and bags.To avoid long queues and ensure a smooth darshan, you can book a Sugam Darshan (Paid/VIP Entry) for Shri Ram Lalla through the official Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra website.
Evening: Saryu Nadi Aarti, Lata Mangeshkar Chowk & Light Show at Ram Ki Paidi
After the peaceful Darshan, you will head to the banks of the sacred Saryu River to witness the magnificent Saryu Aarti at Ram Ki Paidi.
- Saryu Aarti Timings: The Aarti is performed at sunset. As you are visiting in November (Winter), the timing will be earlier:
- The Aarti generally begins around 6:00 PM (Winter timing).
- The Light Show: The spectacular 3D Laser Show, which narrates the epic tales of Lord Ram, usually begins after the Aarti, around 7:30 PM.
Then you can head out to explore the local streets of Ayodhya, indulge in some delicious local delicacies like kachori-sabzi, jalebi, peda, and lassi, and enjoy a bit of street shopping for souvenirs, religious items, and handicrafts around the temple area.
pro tip :- The Lata Mangeshkar Chowk is one of the most beautiful and modern additions to Ayodhya, making it a perfect spot for memorable pictures and a moment of cultural appreciation away from the temples.Since the chowk is located near the Saryu Ghat, it is the perfect place to stop either before or after the magical Saryu Aarti at Ram Ki Paidi to capture those glowing evening shots!
Day 4: Ayodhya Full Day
Early Morning: Hanuman Garhi Temple
Start your day with blessings at the Hanuman Garhi Temple.
Enjoy the peaceful morning chants and panoramic views of the city from the temple top.
It’s best to visit early before the rush begins.
pro tip :- Be prepared to climb around 76 steps to reach the main shrine, and remember that photography is generally not allowed inside the temple.
Morning: Kanak Mahal (Kanak Bhawan)
After Hanuman Garhi, visit Kanak Mahal, a temple gifted to Sita by Kaikeyi after her marriage to Lord Ram.
Admire the golden decorations and the ethereal calmness of this beautiful shrine.
pro tip :- Visit during temple opening hours (8:00 AM–12:00 PM and 4:00 PM–9:30 PM) to avoid crowds and experience the peaceful spiritual atmosphere. Nearby, you can explore local shops for prasadam and souvenirs, and try nearby restaurants for authentic vegetarian meals.
Late Morning: Dashrath Mahal
Next, explore Dashrath Mahal, the royal palace of King Dashrath, father of Lord Ram.
The palace’s striking architecture and vibrant atmosphere reflect Ayodhya’s royal heritage.
pro tip :- Spend some time here taking pictures and soaking in the historical feel of the place.
After lunch and a short rest, your Ayodhya trip comes to a beautiful close.Now we will head back to our own place by train or by road, carrying peaceful memories of both Kashi and Ayodhya — two timeless spiritual centers of India.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Varanasi and Ayodhya Travel
1. What is the best time to visit Varanasi and Ayodhya?
The ideal months are from October to March when the weather is pleasant and festivals like [translate:Dev Diwali] and [translate:Ram Navami] take place, enhancing the spiritual experience.
2. How far is Ayodhya from Varanasi and what is the travel time?
Ayodhya is approximately 220 kilometers from Varanasi, about 4 to 5 hours by road; express trains like the [translate:Vande Bharat Express] take roughly 3 hours.
3. What are the transport options between Varanasi and Ayodhya?
Options include private taxis, buses, and trains such as the [translate:Vande Bharat Express] for comfortable and scenic travel.
4. Are guided tours covering both cities available?
Yes, several tour operators offer 2- to 4-day packages including guided sightseeing, accommodation, and cultural experiences.
5. Is it safe to travel solo in Varanasi and Ayodhya?
Generally safe during daytime and in busy areas; usual travel caution is advised.
6. What is the dress code for temple visits?
Modest, comfortable clothing is recommended. Shoes must be removed before entering temples.
7. Are meals included in most tour packages?
Many include breakfast and selected traditional vegetarian meals.
8. What are the must-visit spiritual sites?
In Varanasi: Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Dashashwamedh Ghat, Sarnath. In Ayodhya: Shri Ram Janmabhoomi, Hanuman Garhi, Kanak Bhawan, Saryu River banks.
9. Can visitors participate in evening aarti ceremonies?
Yes, the evening [translate:Ganga Aarti] in Varanasi and [translate:Saryu Aarti] in Ayodhya are spiritual highlights open to visitors.
10. How to book special temple darshan?
Online booking for Sugam Darshan (paid VIP entry) is available for temples such as Kashi Vishwanath and Shri Ram Janmabhoomi to avoid queues.
