Adventurous 4-Day Trip to Varanasi

Sunday, November 26: Exploring the Ghats

Start your adventure in Varanasi by exploring the iconic ghats along the Ganges River. In the morning, take a boat ride along the river to witness the colorful morning rituals and ceremonies. Afterward, visit Dashashwamedh Ghat, one of the oldest and most vibrant ghats in Varanasi, where you can witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony in the evening. Spend your evening exploring the bustling streets and markets of Varanasi, known for their unique handicrafts and silk products.

• Boat Ride along the Ganges River: Cost - INR 200 per person, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Dashashwamedh Ghat: No entry fee, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Exploring Varanasi's Markets: Cost varies, Time Spent - 2 hours

Restaurants

• Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Brown Bread Bakery, known for its freshly baked goods and cozy atmosphere. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
• For lunch, head to El Parador, a popular Mexican restaurant offering a wide range of tasty dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
• In the evening, dine at The Great Kebab Factory, a renowned restaurant serving a variety of flavorful kebabs. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.

Monday, November 27: Temples and Sarnath

On your second day, immerse yourself in the spiritual side of Varanasi. Start your morning by visiting the renowned Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Afterward, head to the peaceful and ancient site of Sarnath, where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. Explore the Dhamek Stupa, the Ashoka Pillar, and the Sarnath Museum to learn about the rich history of Buddhism. In the evening, witness the grand aarti ceremony at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple.

• Kashi Vishwanath Temple: No entry fee, Time Spent - 1.5 hours
• Sarnath: Entry fee - INR 30 per person, Time Spent - 3 hours
• Aarti Ceremony at Kashi Vishwanath Temple: No entry fee, Time Spent - 1 hour

Tuesday, November 28: Varanasi Food Trail

Indulge in the culinary delights of Varanasi on your third day. Start your morning with a traditional breakfast of kachoris and jalebis at a local eatery. Afterward, embark on a food walking tour through the narrow lanes of Varanasi, sampling local street food delicacies like chaat, paan, and lassi. In the afternoon, visit the famous Blue Lassi Shop to savor their extensive variety of lassis. End your day with a dinner cruise along the Ganges, relishing the flavors of authentic Banarasi cuisine.

• Varanasi Food Walking Tour: Cost - INR 800 per person, Time Spent - 4 hours
• Blue Lassi Shop: Cost - INR 80 per lassi, Time Spent - 1 hour
• Dinner Cruise on the Ganges: Cost - INR 1,500 per person, Time Spent - 2 hours

Wednesday, November 29: Adventure in the Outskirts

On your last day, venture into the outskirts of Varanasi for some thrilling adventures. Start your morning with a visit to Ramnagar Fort, located on the opposite bank of the Ganges. Explore the fort and its museum, which houses a collection of vintage cars, weaponry, and artifacts. Afterward, head to Chandraprabha Wildlife Sanctuary for a thrilling wildlife safari. Enjoy the natural beauty and spot wildlife like deer, peacocks, and various bird species. Wrap up your trip with a mesmerizing sunset boat ride on the Ganges.

• Ramnagar Fort: Entry fee - INR 15 per person, Time Spent - 1.5 hours
• Chandraprabha Wildlife Sanctuary: Entry fee - INR 50 per person, Safari cost - INR 500 per person, Time Spent - 3 hours
• Sunset Boat Ride on the Ganges: Cost - INR 300 per person, Time Spent - 2 hours

Restaurants

• Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Ganga Cafe. This riverside restaurant offers a variety of Indian and continental dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
• For lunch, head to Canton Royale. This Chinese restaurant serves authentic Cantonese cuisine in a vibrant setting. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
• Satisfy your taste buds with a delightful dinner at Brown Bread Bakery. Known for its European-inspired menu, this bakery offers a range of dishes from sandwiches to wood-fired pizzas. Average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For adventurous souls seeking unique experiences in Varanasi, don't miss exploring the hidden gem known as Manikarnika Ghat. This ghat is famous for its cremation ceremonies and offers a glimpse into the circle of life and death. Another off-the-beaten-path attraction is the Chunar Fort, located around 45 kilometers from Varanasi. This ancient fort offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and is perfect for history enthusiasts. Lastly, experience the adrenaline rush by indulging in paragliding at the nearby town of Chaukhandi, which provides breathtaking views of the Ganges and the city of Varanasi from above.

To check hotel and flight prices for your trip to Varanasi, you can visit Kayak.