The perfect start to the day in Varanasi is an early morning boat ride on the Ganges River. Witness the locals praying, bathing, and performing the ritual of washing away sins in the holy river.
Time and Distance Estimate: 1-hour ride (4.5 km) from Assi Ghat (starting point)
8:00 AM: Walk in the narrow lanes of Varanasi
After the boat ride, explore the city's narrow lanes and alleys, where you will get an authentic feel for the culture. Discover the vibrant markets selling silks and spices on the way to your next destination.
Time and Distance Estimate: 30 minutes (1 km) from Assi Ghat
9:00 AM: Visit Sarnath
Located 13 kilometers (8 mi) northeast of Varanasi, Sarnath is one of the oldest Buddhist sites in India. The site boasts the Dhamek Stupa and Sarnath Museum, which houses many rare artifacts from the period.
Time and Distance Estimate: 45-minute drive (13 km) from the city center
11:00 AM: Breakfast at Kachori Gali
Visit Kachauri Gali, a narrow alley with vendors selling delicious street food, especially Kachoris. The tasty and spicy Kachoris will quickly become one of your favorite dining experiences in the city.
Time and Distance Estimate: 40 minutes (4.5 km) from Sarnath
12:00 PM: Stroll Around Dashashwamedh Ghat
Ganga Aarti, the nightly Hindu prayer ceremony, takes place at Dashashwamedh Ghat, which is and regarded as one of the holiest amongst the sacred riverfronts. During the day, the ghat looks magnificent with its brightly colored temples, surrounded by bustling markets.
Time and Distance Estimate: 20 minute walk (1 km) from Kachori Gali
2:00 PM: Lunch at Deena Chat House
This local restaurant serves some of the best street food in Varanasi. It is famous for its chaats, a savory snack made with chickpeas, potatoes, and tangy chutneys.
Time and Distance Estimate: 15 minute walk (1 km) from Dashashwamedh Ghat
3:00 PM: Explore the Markets of Varanasi
The markets of Varanasi are as colorful and bustling as the people who live there. Enjoy shopping for fabrics, jewelry, spices, and art at the local markets. Alternatively, you can take a rickshaw ride from one market to another.
Time and Distance Estimate: 30 minutes from Deena Chat House
5:00 PM: Visit the Tulsi Ghat
Tulsi Ghat is one of the most serene places in Varanasi. It is believed that the great Hindu Saint Tulsi Das wrote the epic Ramcharitmanas here. Enjoy the sunset view, relax, and unwind at the ghat.
Time and Distance Estimate: 20-minute drive (3.3km) from the markets
6:00 PM: Visit Kedar Ghat
Kedar Ghat is one of the most colorful ghats in Varanasi, with lights illuminating the numerous shrines. Enjoy some window shopping for authentic Varanasi sarees and souvenirs, like rudraksha malas.
Time and Distance Estimate: 15 minute walk (1.2 km) from Tulsi Ghat
7:00 PM: Dinner at Brown Bread Bakery
The Brown Bread Bakery serves delicious Italian food in the heart of Varanasi. It is well-known among locals and tourists alike. Enjoy homemade pasta and wood-fired pizza while soaking in the city's vibrant atmosphere.
Time and Distance Estimate: 25 minute walk (2 km) from Kedar Ghat
Time and Cost Estimates
Boat Ride on the Ganges (1 hour) - INR 200
Sarnath (3 hours) - INR 200
Breakfast at Kachauri Gali (1 hour) - INR 100
Lunch at Deena Chat House (1 hour) - INR 150
Brown Bread Bakery (1 hour) - INR 500
Total Estimated Costs: INR 1150
Useful Tips
If you have extra time in Varanasi, you can add the following places to your itinerary:
Visit the Bharat Kala Bhawan Museum: The museum houses a rich collection of Indian art, paintings and sculptures, and textiles. (1-2 hours)
Take a Heritage Walk: The walks provide customers with a way to discover the city's ancient architecture, hidden alleys, and exciting stories. Organized walks last for a few hours and take guests through the city's most scenic and historic quarters. (3-4 hours)
Explore the Vishwanath Temple: The temple is one of Varanasi's holiest Hindu shrines, representing the city's heart and soul. An early morning/prior to 9 am visit is recommended to avoid long lines. (1-2 hours)
If you have less time in Varanasi, you could skip the Sarnath, Vishwanath Temple or walk the Place Relegated by the boat ride.
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