Monday, September 4: Ancient Temples and Spiritual Experiences
Begin your journey in Varanasi by immersing yourself in the spiritual ambiance of the city. In the morning, visit the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Explore the intricate architecture and witness the religious rituals performed by devotees. Afterward, take a boat ride on the sacred Ganges River and witness the mesmerizing evening Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat. As night falls, wander through the narrow lanes of the Old City, known as Varanasi's soul, and discover the ancient temples and vibrant street life.
Ganges River Boat Ride: Estimated cost - INR 200-500 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Evening Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to the famous Blue Lassi shop, known for its delicious and refreshing yogurt-based drinks. A spacious rooftop seating area offers a picturesque view of Varanasi. Average cost for a meal is about ₹100 per person.
For lunch, try Keshav Restaurant, a popular vegetarian eatery known for its thali meals. The restaurant offers a wide variety of dishes, including traditional Indian and local specialties. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For dinner, visit Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe, a cozy rooftop restaurant serving mouth-watering wood-fired pizzas and other Italian dishes. The open-air ambiance and beautiful view of the city make it a perfect spot for a relaxed evening. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Brown Bread Bakery, a cozy cafe offering a variety of freshly baked bread, pastries, and sandwiches. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, try Kashi Chat Bhandar, a popular street food joint known for its mouthwatering chaat dishes like pani puri and aloo tikki. Average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
For dinner, dine at the renowned Baati Chokha, a traditional restaurant serving authentic Bihari cuisine. Don't miss their specialty, baati chokha, a savory dish made with roasted wheat balls and mashed potatoes. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Restaurants
Start your morning at The Brown Bread Bakery, a popular breakfast spot known for its freshly baked bread and pastries. Enjoy a delicious breakfast spread with options like omelettes, croissants, and cappuccinos. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Eden Restaurant, a cozy eatery specializing in Indian and Chinese cuisine. Indulge in their flavorful curries, tandoori dishes, and spicy noodles. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
In the evening, experience the authentic flavors of Varanasi at Bhadaini Tandoorhouse. This local favorite serves mouthwatering tandoori kebabs, biryanis, and curries. The average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Deepak Tambul Bhandar, known for its traditional Indian snacks and refreshing beverages. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to The Great Kabab Factory, offering a wide range of succulent kebabs and flavorful Indian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner experience at the multi-cuisine rooftop restaurant called BrijRama Palace, where you can savor delectable dishes while enjoying panoramic views of the Ganges River. Average cost for a meal is about 1000 INR per person.
Tuesday, September 5: Cultural Heritage and Sarnath Excursion
On day two, delve deeper into Varanasi's cultural heritage. Start your morning by visiting the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, located inside the Benaras Hindu University campus, where you can explore a vast collection of ancient Indian art and artifacts. Afterward, head to the Ramnagar Fort, situated on the eastern bank of the Ganges River, to admire the stunning architecture and explore the museum showcasing vintage cars, weaponry, and royal artifacts. In the afternoon, take a trip to Sarnath, a nearby city renowned as the place where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon. Visit the Dhamek Stupa, Chaukhandi Stupa, and Mulagandha Kuti Vihar to experience the serenity and spirituality of this Buddhist pilgrimage site.
Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum: Estimated cost - INR 20-50 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Ramnagar Fort: Estimated cost - INR 20-50 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Sarnath Excursion: Estimated cost - INR 500-1000 per person (including transportation), Time spent - 3-4 hours
Wednesday, September 6: Ghats, Sunrise, and Local Delights
On your final day in Varanasi, start early to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the Ganges River. Take a boat ride to observe the morning rituals and see the city come to life on the ghats. Afterward, explore the hidden gems of Varanasi by walking through the backstreets of the Old City. Discover local markets, try street food delicacies like kachoris and lassi, and witness traditional crafts like silk weaving and metalwork. In the evening, indulge in a flavorsome Banarasi thali for dinner, savoring the authentic taste of Varanasi's cuisine.
Ganges River Sunrise Boat Ride: Estimated cost - INR 200-500 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Exploring Old City and Hidden Gems: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 3-4 hours
Banarasi Thali Dinner: Estimated cost - INR 300-500 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While visiting Varanasi, don't miss the chance to explore some off the beaten path attractions and experience the city like a local. Visit the Assi Ghat, located at the confluence of the Ganges and Assi rivers, which offers a serene and peaceful ambiance away from the crowds. Take a stroll through the Vishwanath Gali, a narrow lane known for its local shops selling traditional Banarasi silk sarees and handicrafts. If you have an interest in music and performing arts, attend a classical music concert or a Bharatanatyam dance performance at the nearby Sankat Mochan Mandir. These hidden gems and local favorites will add a unique touch to your Varanasi experience.