Welcome to Varanasi! Start your trip by checking into your hotel and getting settled. In the morning, take a boat ride along the sacred Ganges River to witness the mesmerizing sunrise and witness the famous Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat in the evening. Immerse yourself in the spiritual aura of Varanasi as priests perform the rituals accompanied by chanting and music.
Boat Ride on the Ganges: Cost varies, approximately 2 hours
Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat: Free, approximately 1 hour
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Brown Bread Bakery & Cafe, a popular spot known for its delicious sandwiches, pastries, and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, try the traditional Indian cuisine at Ksheer Sagar. This restaurant offers a wide range of vegetarian dishes including thali meals, dosas, and curries. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For dinner, visit Deepak Restaurant, a local favorite known for its authentic Indian flavors. From mouthwatering kebabs to spicy curries, this place offers a tempting menu. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Monday, August 7: Exploring the Old City
In the morning, explore the narrow lanes of the Old City known as the "galis." Visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Afternoon can be spent discovering the Banaras Hindu University, home to the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum. In the evening, witness the architectural marvel of the Ramnagar Fort, located on the eastern bank of the Ganges River.
Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Free, approximately 2 hours
Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum: Cost varies, approximately 2-3 hours
Ramnagar Fort: Cost varies, approximately 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, try the famous Kachori Sabzi at Madhur Milan. They serve crispy and flavorful kachoris with a delicious potato curry. Average cost for a meal is about ₹100 per person.
For lunch, head to Brown Bread Bakery and Cafe for some mouthwatering sandwiches and salads. Their fresh ingredients and cozy ambiance make it a perfect spot for a light lunch. Average cost for a meal is about ₹250 per person.
For dinner, indulge in authentic North Indian cuisine at Ganga Fuji Home. They offer a wide variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, including succulent kebabs and aromatic curries. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
Tuesday, August 8: Sarnath Excursion
Embark on a day trip to Sarnath, located just outside Varanasi. This important Buddhist pilgrimage site is where Gautama Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. Visit the Dhamek Stupa, Ashoka Pillar, and the Sarnath Archaeological Museum to delve deeper into the history and spirituality of Buddhism.
Dhamek Stupa: Free, approximately 1-2 hours
Ashoka Pillar: Free, approximately 30 minutes
Sarnath Archaeological Museum: Cost varies, approximately 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot near Sarnath is The Bread Basket, known for its freshly baked bread and pastries. Enjoy a hearty breakfast here for around ₹200 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Ganga View Restaurant, located on the banks of the Ganges River. Indulge in traditional Indian cuisine while enjoying the serene views. The average cost for a meal here is approximately ₹500 per person.
End your day with a delicious dinner at Keshari Restaurant, a local favorite known for its authentic Varanasi cuisine. Try their famous malaiyo (a creamy dessert) and other traditional dishes for an average cost of ₹400 per person.
Wednesday, August 9: Varanasi Silk Weaving
Discover the intricate art of Varanasi silk weaving in the morning. Visit a local silk workshop to witness the skilled weavers creating beautiful textiles. In the afternoon, explore the famous Banarasi Saree shops and indulge in some retail therapy. In the evening, take a leisurely walk along the ghats to soak in the magical ambiance of the city.
Varanasi Silk Weaving Workshop: Free, approximately 1-2 hours
Banarasi Saree Shopping: Cost varies, approximately 2-3 hours
Evening Ghat Walk: Free, approximately 1-2 hours
Thursday, August 10: Rural Varanasi Experience
Escape the city and experience the charm of rural Varanasi. Start your day with a visit to a neighboring village to witness the lifestyle of the locals. Engage in activities like pottery making and interacting with the villagers. In the afternoon, visit the Chunar Fort, a historic fort situated on the banks of the Ganges River.
Rural Village Visit: Cost varies, approximately 4-5 hours
Chunar Fort: Cost varies, approximately 2-3 hours
Friday, August 11: Varanasi Cuisine Exploration
Indulge in the rich flavors of Varanasi's cuisine. Start your day with a local breakfast of kachori and jalebi. In the afternoon, participate in a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Varanasi dishes. Complete your culinary experience by sampling mouthwatering street food at the famous Vishwanath Gali.
Local Breakfast: Cost varies, approximately 1 hour
Cooking Class: Cost varies, approximately 2-3 hours
Street Food at Vishwanath Gali: Cost varies, approximately 2 hours
Saturday, August 12: Day of Relaxation and Shopping
Spend your last day in Varanasi indulging in some relaxation and shopping. Visit a local spa for a rejuvenating massage or Ayurvedic treatment. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant markets of Varanasi, such as the Godowlia Market and Vishwanath Lane, where you can find unique handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs to take home.
Spa Treatment: Cost varies, approximately 1-2 hours
Shopping in Varanasi Markets: Cost varies, approximately 2-3 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Varanasi, don't miss out on the hidden gems and local favorites. Take a walk along the Assi Ghat in the early morning to observe the rituals and meet sadhus (holy men). Visit the Jantar Mantar observatory, an ancient astronomical observatory, and marvel at the precision of the instruments. Don't forget to try the famous Varanasi street food, such as kachori, paan, and lassi.