Welcome to Varanasi, one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world and a spiritual capital of India. Start your journey by checking into a hotel and taking some time to relax and freshen up. In the afternoon, head to the famous Dashashwamedh Ghat, one of the most prominent ghats along the Ganges River. Witness the grand Ganga Aarti ceremony as priests perform rituals and offer prayers to the river. As the evening sets in, take a boat ride on the Ganges to witness the mesmerizing sight of the illuminated ghats and the floating diyas.
Dashashwamedh Ghat: Free, 3 hours
Boat Ride on the Ganges: INR 200-500 (approx. $3-7), 2 hours
Restaurants
Head to Blue Lassi, a popular breakfast spot known for its delicious lassis and traditional Indian sweets. Enjoy a variety of flavors like mango, banana, and saffron. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, try Kashi Chat Bhandar, a local favorite known for its mouthwatering street food. Indulge in traditional chaat items like pani puri and papdi chaat. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For dinner, visit Baati Chokha, renowned for its authentic Bihari cuisine. Feast on dishes like litti chokha and sattu paratha, and experience the flavors of Bihar. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Saturday August 12: Spiritual Varanasi
Start your day by visiting the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most sacred temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Explore the narrow lanes of Varanasi, known as the "Old City," and discover hidden temples, lively markets, and traditional shops selling silk sarees and handicrafts. In the afternoon, visit Sarnath, where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. Explore the ancient ruins, visit the Dhamek Stupa, and gain insights into the history of Buddhism. In the evening, enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the Ganges and witness the magical Ganga Aarti from a different perspective.
Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Free, 2 hours
Exploring Varanasi's Old City: Free, 3 hours
Sarnath: Free (excluding museum entry), 3 hours
Boat Ride on the Ganges: INR 200-500 (approx. $3-7), 2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Varanasi is Madhur Milan. This restaurant offers a wide range of delicious vegetarian dishes such as poha (flattened rice), kachori (deep-fried bread filled with lentils), and jalebi (sweet, syrupy dessert). The average cost for a breakfast meal here is about 150 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Deena Chat Bhandar. This iconic street food joint is famous for its chaat, a savory snack made with crispy fried dough, tangy chutneys, and a variety of toppings. You can also try their stuffed parathas and refreshing lassi. The average cost for a lunch meal here is about 200 INR per person.
In the evening, IndiQube Rooftop Restaurant is a great choice for dinner. Located on a rooftop terrace, this restaurant offers a stunning view of the city skyline. Enjoy a delectable range of Indian and international cuisine, including tandoori dishes and mouthwatering desserts. The average cost for a dinner here is about 500 INR per person.
Sunday August 13: Cultural Varanasi
Start your day by visiting the Banaras Hindu University, one of the largest residential universities in Asia. Explore the campus and visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, which houses a remarkable collection of Indian art and artifacts. In the afternoon, witness the traditional art of silk weaving at a local workshop and learn about the intricate process of creating Banarasi silk sarees. As the evening approaches, attend a classical music or dance performance at a local venue, immersing yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Varanasi.
Banaras Hindu University: Free, 2 hours
Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum: INR 20-50 (approx. $0.30-0.70), 2 hours
Classical Music or Dance Performance: INR 200-500 (approx. $3-7), 2 hours
Restaurants
The Breakfast Club: Enjoy a delicious breakfast at The Breakfast Club, known for their mouthwatering omelettes and freshly baked pastries. Their diverse menu offers options for every taste. Average cost for a meal is about 200 rupees per person.
Mango Tree: Indulge in authentic Indian cuisine at Mango Tree for lunch, where you can savor traditional dishes like butter chicken and biryani. Their cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make for a delightful dining experience. Average cost for a meal is about 400 rupees per person.
Ganges Riverside Restaurant: Treat yourself to a scenic dinner at Ganges Riverside Restaurant, located on the banks of the river. Enjoy panoramic views of the iconic Ganges while feasting on a variety of dishes, including fresh seafood and flavorful curries. Average cost for a meal is about 600 rupees per person.
Monday August 14: Exploring Varanasi's Surroundings
On your last day in Varanasi, take a day trip to explore the nearby attractions. Start with a visit to the Ramnagar Fort, situated on the eastern bank of the Ganges. Explore the well-preserved fort and its museum, which displays vintage cars, royal costumes, and antique weaponry. Next, head to the nearby village of Chunar and visit the Chunar Fort, known for its historical significance and panoramic views of the surroundings. In the evening, return to Varanasi and enjoy a serene sunset boat ride on the Ganges, bidding farewell to this enchanting city.
Sunset Boat Ride on the Ganges: INR 200-500 (approx. $3-7), 2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Varanasi is Bona Cafe, known for its delicious Indian and continental breakfast options. The average cost for a meal here is about Rs. 200 per person.
For lunch, head to Yogi Restaurant which offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes. With its calm ambiance and reasonable prices, the average cost for a meal here is about Rs. 300 per person.
In the evening, visit Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe for dinner, a rooftop restaurant offering a cozy atmosphere and an extensive menu of delectable pizzas and pasta. The average cost for a meal here is about Rs. 500 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Varanasi, don't miss the opportunity to visit the charming Assi Ghat, known for its serene ambiance and yoga centers. Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at the Assi Ghat, which offers a more intimate and local experience compared to the crowded Dashashwamedh Ghat. Another hidden gem is the Manikarnika Ghat, where cremations take place. While it may seem unconventional, it provides a unique insight into the spiritual beliefs and rituals of the city. If you have time, venture into the nearby town of Ramnagar, where you can explore the Ramnagar Fort and Museum and get a glimpse of the royal heritage of Varanasi.