OT Travel Itinerary: Offbeat 2-Day Varanasi Trip

Varanasi, also known as Banaras, is an indescribable city and one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements on the Gangetic Plains. The city isn't just a renowned spiritual hub, it is also a significant cultural hub offering culinary delights, and famous for heritage GI-tagged handicrafts like the Banarasi sari, and for the unique architecture of ghats, temples, shrines, palaces, and mosques. With its stunning sunrises and sunsets, the nearby marvel of Sarnath, Varanasi is truly a world in itself. Hidden within its labyrinthine lanes lies an entirely different facet of Varanasi—a world where the city's art and architecture intertwine, away from the bustling ghats. Beyond the typical tourist draws, this guide Varanasi delves into the often-overlooked and offbeat charms of this enigmatic city.

DAY 1

Morning

Enjoy Varanasi's rich heritage by joining an Old City Walking Tour. Led by knowledgeable guides, these tours offer a variety of experiences, including sightseeing, boat trips, and cultural explorations. You'll navigate the bustling streets and quaint alleyways, admiring the traditional architecture and visiting iconic silk-weaving workshops, vibrant spice markets, and authentic eateries.

Afternoon

Explore Lamhi on the Varanasi-Azamgarh highway to trace the footsteps of the poet Munshi Premchand. Just a thirty-minute car ride from Varanasi, Lamhi is home to the writer's house and is adorned with a memorial gate in his honour. Every year, devotees of Premchand's work visit the town to pay homage to the literary legend. On his birth anniversary, the town comes alive with performances, plays based on his stories, and exhibitions showcasing old documents and photographs.

Evening

Experience the charm of Banaras by savouring a relaxed dinner at a rooftop restaurant with a view of the ghats. Another option is to explore the streets and delight in local delicacies such as kachoris, choora matar, and the famous paan, immersing yourself in the unique flavours of Banarasi culture.

DAY 2

Morning

Head to Banaras Hindu University (BHU). Renowned as one of the largest residential universities in Asia, it is steeped in history. The campus's buildings, constructed in the first half of the 20th century, showcase an exquisite blend of Indo-Gothic architecture, boasting intricate detailing and timeless allure. As you wander through the sprawling campus, take a moment to appreciate the rich cultural heritage on display at the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, which houses a diverse collection of centuries-old artefacts. And don't miss the striking Vishwanath Temple, an iconic symbol of BHU, known for its architectural grandeur and spiritual significance.

Afternoon

Check out Sarnath after lunch. Located just 10 km from Benaras, it has profound historical and spiritual significance having played a pivotal role in Buddha's life. This historic city was once a crucial centre for education, where Buddha delivered his first sermon, marking the auspicious turning of the wheel of the Dharma. It was in Sarnath that the first Buddhist Sangha was established, comprising 60 disciples. The place boasts captivating attractions such as the Mulagandhakuti Vihara temple, housing an awe-inspiring golden Buddha idol and exquisite frescoes by the esteemed Japanese artist Kosetsu Nosu. The monumental Dhamek Stupa from the Gupta era, the Chaukhandi Stupa, and various other intriguing archaeological ruins, including the Ashokan Pillar, add to the city's allure. The ASI museum in Sarnath is a veritable treasure trove, showcasing India's rich Buddhist art and historical heritage.

Evening

On your last evening, explore the city's famous traditional crafts and textiles. Varanasi is known for its unique arts and crafts, some of which have been recognised with Geographical Indication (GI) tags. For instance, Banaras gulabi meenakari, a traditional enamel work which was brought to India by the Mughals. It involves decorating kundan jewellery with gemstones mounted with gold foil and intricate enamel work on the reverse side. Other GI-tagged crafts to pick up are Varanasi soft stone jali work, and Banaras metal repousse craft. Varanasi's handloom heritage goes back centuries. And you just cannot leave without buying a classic Banarasi sari.