Welcome to Banaras! Start your trip by checking into your hotel and freshening up. In the morning, head to the iconic Dashashwamedh Ghat to witness the famous Ganga Aarti ceremony. This spiritual ritual takes place every evening as priests perform prayers and offer lamps to the sacred river Ganges. The mesmerizing ambiance and the flickering lights create a truly enchanting experience. Afterward, explore the nearby narrow lanes filled with shops selling religious artifacts and handicrafts. End the evening with a delicious dinner at a local restaurant.
Dashashwamedh Ghat: Free, 2 hours
Restaurants
Breakfast: Raju Omlet Center - Try their famous omelettes with a variety of fillings such as cheese, vegetables, and chicken. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
Lunch: Pizzeria Vatika - Indulge in delicious wood-fired pizzas and other Italian dishes in a serene garden setting. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Dinner: Vishnu Tea and Snacks - Enjoy a wide range of scrumptious vegetarian snacks and street food items like pani puri and chole bhature. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Saturday August 19: Sarnath Excursion and Shopping
On day two, visit the ancient archaeological site of Sarnath, located just outside Banaras. This is where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. Explore the ruins, visit the Dhamekh Stupa, and learn about Buddhism's rich history at the Sarnath Museum. In the afternoon, return to Banaras and indulge in some shopping at the bustling markets of Godowlia and Vishwanath Gali. These markets offer a wide range of items, including silk fabrics, traditional Banarasi sarees, handicrafts, and delicious street food.
Sarnath: Entrance fee - INR 10, 4 hours
Shopping at Godowlia and Vishwanath Gali: Varies, 3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Kashi Pav Bhaji, a popular local eatery known for its delicious pav bhaji. Average cost for a meal is about ₹100 per person.
For lunch, try out Bhoj Restaurant, which offers a variety of mouthwatering vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For dinner, dine at Hotel Haifa, a well-known establishment that serves tasty Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Sunday August 20: Boat Ride and Temples
Start your day with a serene boat ride along the Ganges during sunrise. Witness the ghats come alive as pilgrims take their holy dips and perform rituals. After the boat ride, explore some of the famous temples in Banaras. Begin with the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most significant Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Then, visit the Bharat Mata Temple, which showcases a unique relief map of India made entirely of marble. In the evening, take a leisurely walk along the Assi Ghat and enjoy the vibrant evening aarti.
Boat Ride: INR 200 per person, 2 hours
Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Free, 1 hour
Bharat Mata Temple: Entrance fee - INR 20, 1 hour
Assi Ghat: Free, 1 hour
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot near the ghats is "Lotus Lounge". This cafe offers a variety of freshly brewed coffee, delicious pastries, and healthy breakfast bowls. You can expect to spend around 200 INR per person for a meal.
For lunch, head to "Keshari Restaurant" located near the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. This restaurant serves authentic Banarasi cuisine including mouthwatering thalis with a range of vegetarian dishes. The average cost for a meal here is around 300 INR per person.
Indulge in a delightful dinner at "Uttar Pradesh Food Plaza". This restaurant is known for its extensive menu featuring traditional dishes from Uttar Pradesh. Highlighting flavorsome curries, biryanis, and kebabs, the average cost for a meal at this restaurant is approximately 500 INR per person.
Monday August 21: Banaras Hindu University and Ramnagar Fort
On your last day, explore the renowned Banaras Hindu University (BHU), one of the largest residential universities in Asia. Visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum within the campus, which houses an impressive collection of Indian art and artifacts. Afterward, head to the Ramnagar Fort, situated on the opposite bank of the Ganges. This magnificent fort showcases exquisite architecture and offers a glimpse into the royal history of Banaras. Spend your evening enjoying a traditional Banarasi dinner and reflecting on your memorable trip.
A popular breakfast spot is Deus Cafe, known for its deliciously fluffy pancakes and refreshing smoothie bowls. Expect to spend around $10 per person for a satisfying breakfast.
For lunch, head to The Great Kebab Factory for a delectable array of kebabs, biryanis, and Indian desserts. Enjoy an unlimited lunch buffet for approximately $20 per person.
In the evening, dine at the renowned Open Hand Cafe, overlooking the Ganges River. Indulge in flavorful Indian and continental dishes while enjoying the serene atmosphere. The average cost for a dinner here is about $15 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Banaras, don't miss out on the hidden gems loved by locals. Visit the charming Manikarnika Ghat, one of the oldest and most sacred cremation grounds. It may sound unusual, but it offers a unique cultural experience and a chance to witness the cycle of life and death. Another off-the-beaten-path attraction is the Tulsi Manas Temple, dedicated to Lord Rama. This temple is known for its beautiful marble carvings depicting the epic Ramayana. These hidden gems provide a deeper understanding of Banaras' spiritual and cultural essence.
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