sacred varanasi prayagraj ayodhya

Arrive at Varanasi airport or railway station and transfer to your hotel. Check in and relax, then later in the afternoon, head to the sacred Ganges for a serene boat ride to explore the ghats of Varanasi, culminating in the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat – a divine spectacle of light, chants, and spiritual energy.

Varanasi holds a sacred place in Hinduism, believed to be where the eternal flame of life (Jyoti) burns. Near Dashashwamedh Ghat stands the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, home to one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. The ghat is revered as a powerful spiritual junction between the divine and the earthly. Overnight stay in Varanasi.

Begin your day early with temple visits including Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Annapurna Mandir, and Kaal Bhairav Mandir. Continue the spiritual journey with visits to Sankat Mochan Hanuman Mandir, Durga Mandir, Tulsi Manas Mandir, and Banaras Hindu University (BHU).

Return to the hotel for breakfast. Afterward, head to Sarnath, the sacred place where Gautam Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. In Sarnath, explore the Sarnath Museum which houses India’s National Emblem, originally from the Ashoka Pillar. Visit the ancient Buddhist ruins and Stupas, and the Mahabodhi Society Temple. Evening is free for leisure. Overnight stay in Varanasi.

After early breakfast, check out from the hotel and proceed to Prayagraj (130 km / approx. 3 hrs one way). Prayagraj, formerly known as Allahabad, is one of the oldest cities in India, located at the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers. It holds deep religious importance and is a key site for the Kumbh Mela. The city has also played a significant role in India’s freedom movement and was home to several prominent leaders.

Sightseeing includes a holy dip at Sangam, visit to Bada Hanuman Mandir, Akshayvat Tree (a sacred fig tree believed to be indestructible, mentioned in Hindu mythology in a story involving Sage Markandeya and Lord Narayana), and Anand Bhawan, the birthplace of India’s first Prime Minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. Overnight stay in Prayagraj.

After breakfast, drive to Ayodhya (Approx. 180 km / 4 hrs), the sacred birthplace of Lord Rama. The route offers glimpses of rural charm and spiritual calm, leading you into a city rich in devotion, legend, and cultural heritage. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the iconic Ram Janmabhoomi, the revered Kanak Bhawan Palace, and the ancient Hanuman Garhi Temple. Continue to the Sri Nageshwarnath Temple, a shrine linked to Lord Rama’s son Kush. Stroll along the scenic Ram Ki Paidi, a series of ghats on the banks of the Saryu River. In the evening, witness the soul-stirring Aarti at the river, a divine experience filled with chants, lights, and spiritual ambiance. Overnight stay in Ayodhya.

After enjoying a hearty breakfast, check out from the hotel and begin your scenic journey back to Varanasi. Upon arrival, complete the check-in formalities at your hotel and unwind in the comfort of your room, allowing some time to relax and refresh before the afternoon’s exploration.

In the afternoon, enjoy a short excursion to Ramnagar Fort, located on the eastern bank of the Ganges. Built in the 18th century by Kashi Naresh Raja Balwant Singh, the fort exemplifies Mughal-style architecture with its carved balconies, open courtyards, and pavilions. Explore the fort’s museum, which showcases an impressive collection of vintage cars, royal armory, antique clocks, old manuscripts, and ceremonial costumes of the former royal family. Return to your hotel. Overnight stay in Varanasi.

After breakfast, check out from the hotel and drop at Varanasi airport or railway station for onward or return journey.