One Perfect Morning in Kashi: A Temple Trail from Sankat Mochan to a Boat Ride at Assi Ghat
Varanasi is famous for its riverfront sunrises, but the city also rewards travellers who plan a simple temple trail across its southern half. A single well-paced morning can cover four beloved landmarks and end with a boat ride — an itinerary that regular visitors to Kashi swear by. Begin at Sankat Mochan Hanuman Mandir, one of the city's most cherished temples, believed to have been founded by Goswami Tulsidas. Mornings here are calm and full of the aroma of besan laddoos, the traditional offering to Hanuman ji. From there it is a short ride to the New Vishwanath Temple inside the Banaras Hindu University campus. Set among the university's tree-lined avenues, this marble temple — often called Birla Mandir — is one of the tallest in India and welcomes visitors of all backgrounds. Next comes Durga Mandir near Durga Kund, a striking red-ochre temple from the 18th century that anchors one of the city's oldest neighbourhoods. A little further on, the riverfront opens up at Assi Ghat, the southernmost of the famous ghats, known for its morning aarti, yoga sessions and easy-going cafés. Finish with a rowing boat from Assi Ghat along the crescent of the Ganga, and if time permits, cross over to Namo Ghat — the city's newest, most spacious riverfront promenade with its landmark folded-hands sculptures, food stalls and evening buzz. The whole circuit takes four to five hours at an unhurried pace. Carry water, dress modestly for temple visits, and keep small change handy for offerings and boat fares.
Compiled by HelloBanaras from public sources: