Exploring Varanasi: A 7-Day Itinerary

Monday, November 20: Arrival in Varanasi

Welcome to Varanasi! Start your trip by immersing yourself in the spirituality of this ancient city. In the morning, visit the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple and seek blessings. In the afternoon, take a boat ride on the sacred Ganges River and witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat. As the evening sets in, explore the narrow alleys of the old city and indulge in local street food.

• Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Ganges River Boat Ride: Estimated cost - INR 200-300, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Dashashwamedh Ghat: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Tuesday, November 21: Sarnath Excursion

Embark on a day trip to Sarnath, an important Buddhist pilgrimage site. In the morning, explore the archaeological ruins and visit the Dhamek Stupa, where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. In the afternoon, delve into the rich history of Buddhism at the Sarnath Museum. In the evening, witness the evening aarti at the Mulagandha Kuti Vihar.

• Dhamek Stupa: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Sarnath Museum: Estimated cost - INR 10-20, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Mulagandha Kuti Vihar: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Wednesday, November 22: Varanasi Ghats Exploration

Today, explore the different ghats along the Ganges River. In the morning, visit the Assi Ghat and take a dip in the holy waters. In the afternoon, visit the Manikarnika Ghat, one of the oldest cremation grounds in Varanasi. In the evening, witness the Ganga Aarti at the serene Man Mandir Ghat.

• Assi Ghat: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Manikarnika Ghat: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Man Mandir Ghat: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Thursday, November 23: Varanasi Silk Shopping

Indulge in some retail therapy today by exploring the vibrant silk markets of Varanasi. In the morning, visit the famous Banaras Hindu University and browse through the handwoven silk sarees at the Weaver's Village. In the afternoon, visit the Vishwanath Gali and explore the narrow lanes filled with shops selling traditional silk products. In the evening, enjoy a sunset boat ride near the Rajendra Prasad Ghat.

• Banaras Hindu University: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Weaver's Village: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Vishwanath Gali: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Rajendra Prasad Ghat Boat Ride: Estimated cost - INR 200-300, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Friday, November 24: Varanasi Food Trail

Today is all about exploring the diverse culinary offerings of Varanasi. In the morning, start with a breakfast of kachori and jalebi at the famous Kachori Gali. In the afternoon, savor the local delicacies like malaiyyo, tamatar chaat, and thandai at the various street food stalls in Godowlia Chowk. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Banarasi thali at one of the renowned local restaurants.

• Kachori Gali: Estimated cost - INR 50-100, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Godowlia Chowk: Estimated cost - INR 100-200, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Traditional Banarasi Thali: Estimated cost - INR 300-500, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Saturday, November 25: Ramnagar Fort and Museum

Explore the historical heritage of Varanasi by visiting the Ramnagar Fort and Museum. In the morning, visit the fort and admire its stunning architecture and collection of vintage cars. In the afternoon, explore the museum and learn about the rich history of the region. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely walk along the fort's scenic riverside promenade.

• Ramnagar Fort: Estimated cost - INR 100-200, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Ramnagar Museum: Estimated cost - INR 20-50, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Sunday, November 26: Varanasi Handicrafts Tour

End your trip by exploring the exquisite handicrafts of Varanasi. In the morning, visit the nearby village of Sarai Mohana, known for its silk weaving and wood carving. In the afternoon, explore the markets of Thatheri Bazaar and Lahurabir, where you can find beautiful brassware, jewelry, and textiles. In the evening, enjoy a sunset boat ride on the Ganges River to bid farewell to this enchanting city.

• Sarai Mohana: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Thatheri Bazaar: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Lahurabir: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Sunset Boat Ride: Estimated cost - INR 200-300, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• Ganga Cafe: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Ganga Cafe, known for its mouth-watering vegetarian dishes and serene riverfront views. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
• Blue Lassi: For a tasty and refreshing lunch, head to Blue Lassi, a famous lassi shop in Varanasi. Their lassis are made with fresh fruits and topped with a dollop of thick cream. Average cost for a meal is about ₹100 per person.
• Spicy Bites: End your day with a flavorsome dinner at Spicy Bites, a popular restaurant offering a variety of Indian and Chinese delicacies. The restaurant has a cozy ambiance and serves both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Varanasi, don't miss out on some off the beaten path attractions. Visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan, an art and archaeological museum within the Banaras Hindu University campus. Explore the tranquil Ramnagar Gardens, known for their lush greenery and Mughal-inspired architecture. Experience the serenity of the Chunar Fort, located on the banks of the Ganges River and known for its historical significance. These hidden gems will offer you a unique perspective of Varanasi beyond its popular attractions.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.