Kolkata to Varanasi 3-Day Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Initial Exploration

Morning: Catch an early flight from Kolkata to Varanasi (≈1.5 hrs). After arrival, transfer to your hotel near the ghats and settle in.

Afternoon: Take a leisurely walk along Assi Ghat, soak up the riverside atmosphere, and enjoy a light lunch at a local café.

Evening: Experience the spectacular Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, followed by dinner featuring Banarasi specialties.

Day 2: Spiritual & Historical Highlights

Morning: Visit the revered Kashi Vishwanath Temple for a glimpse of Hindu devotion, then explore the nearby Manikarnika Ghat.

Afternoon: Head to Sarnath, the birthplace of Buddhism, to tour the Dhamek Stupa, Ashoka Pillar, and Museum.

Evening: Enjoy a serene sunset boat cruise on the Ganges, spotting the illuminated ghats and hearing local chants.

Day 3: Cultural Immersion & Departure

Morning: Wander through the bustling markets of Vishwanath Gali, sampling street snacks and buying silk saris.

Afternoon: Visit the historic Ramnagar Fort on the opposite bank of the river, admiring its museum and royal architecture.

Evening: Return to the hotel to collect luggage and catch an evening train or flight back to Kolkata.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Flight Kolkata‑Varanasi (round‑trip) – 3 hrs total travel time – $150
• Assi Ghat – 1 hr – Free (optional tea: $5)
• Dashashwamedh Ghat Aarti – 1 hr – Free (donation $3)
• Kashi Vishwanath Temple – 1.5 hrs – Free (Darshan fee $2)
• Manikarnika Ghat – 0.5 hr – Free
• Sarnath (site & museum) – 3 hrs – $10 entry
• Ganga Sunset Boat Cruise – 1.5 hrs – $12
• Vishwanath Gali market – 2 hrs – Shopping budget $30
• Ramnagar Fort – 2 hrs – $8 entry
• Meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) – 3 days – $60

Total Estimated Cost: $280

Tips

To extend the trip, add an extra day to explore nearby attractions such as the ancient city of Varanasi’s silk weaving workshops or take a sunrise yoga session on the ghats. If you need to shorten the itinerary, skip the market visit and combine the boat cruise with the evening Aarti, reducing one afternoon activity while still capturing the city’s highlights.