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A Foodie's Delight in Varanasi: A 5-Day Itinerary

Friday, August 11: Arrival and Exploring the Ghats

Welcome to Varanasi, the spiritual capital of India! Start your foodie adventure by immersing yourself in the mesmerizing atmosphere of the ghats. In the morning, take a boat ride along the Ganges River and witness the spiritual rituals and ceremonies. Afterward, head to Vishwanath Gali, a bustling street famous for its mouth-watering street food. Indulge in local delicacies like kachori, chaat, and lassi. In the evening, visit Dasaswamedh Ghat to witness the spectacular Ganga Aarti, a captivating ritual worshiping the river.

  • Boat Ride: Cost estimated at INR 200 per person, Time spent: 2 hours
  • Vishwanath Gali Food Tour: Cost estimated at INR 500 per person, Time spent: 3 hours
  • Ganga Aarti at Dasaswamedh Ghat: No cost, Time spent: 1 hour
Saturday, August 12: Savoring Banarasi Cuisine

Get ready to explore the culinary delights of Varanasi! Start your morning with a traditional Banarasi breakfast of aloo puri, kachori, and jalebi at the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Afterward, make your way to the Vishwanath Gali and Bengali Tola area to taste the famous Banarasi paan, a betel leaf wrapped delicacy. In the afternoon, visit Ram Bhandar, a popular eatery known for its lip-smacking Chole Bhature and Kachori Sabzi. For dinner, head to Deena Chaat Bhandar for their iconic Tamatar Chaat and Dahi Bhalla.

  • Kashi Vishwanath Temple: No cost, Time spent: 1 hour
  • Exploring Vishwanath Gali and Bengali Tola: Cost estimated at INR 500 per person, Time spent: 2 hours
  • Lunch at Ram Bhandar: Cost estimated at INR 200 per person, Time spent: 1.5 hours
  • Dinner at Deena Chaat Bhandar: Cost estimated at INR 300 per person, Time spent: 1.5 hours
Sunday, August 13: Culinary Heritage Walk and Evening Street Food

Embark on a culinary heritage walk to uncover the hidden gems of Varanasi's food scene. In the morning, join a guided tour that takes you through the narrow lanes of the city, visiting local food joints and trying authentic specialties like Banarasi Kalakand, Malaiyyo, and Thandai. After the tour, take a break for lunch and savor the flavors of Varanasi's famous Baati Chokha at a local eatery. In the evening, explore Godowlia Chowk, a bustling market known for its street food. Indulge in delicious treats like Kachori, Samosa, and Rabri Malai.

  • Culinary Heritage Walk: Cost estimated at INR 800 per person, Time spent: 3 hours
  • Lunch at a local eatery: Cost estimated at INR 300 per person, Time spent: 1.5 hours
  • Godowlia Chowk Street Food: Cost estimated at INR 200 per person, Time spent: 2 hours
Monday, August 14: Visit to Sarnath and Banarasi Sweets

Take a break from the food indulgence and explore the historical and spiritual side of Varanasi. In the morning, visit Sarnath, an important Buddhist pilgrimage site. Explore the ruins, visit the Dhamek Stupa, and learn about the teachings of Buddha. Afterward, head back to Varanasi and satisfy your sweet tooth at the iconic Banarasi sweet shops. Try specialties like Malai Peda, Kheer Mohan, and Launglata. In the evening, take a leisurely walk along the Dashashwamedh Ghat and enjoy the serene view of the Ganges River.

  • Visit to Sarnath: Cost estimated at INR 400 per person (including transportation), Time spent: 4 hours
  • Exploring Banarasi Sweet Shops: Cost estimated at INR 300 per person, Time spent: 1.5 hours
  • Evening walk at Dashashwamedh Ghat: No cost, Time spent: 1 hour
Tuesday, August 15: Cooking Class and Farewell Dinner

End your foodie journey with a hands-on cooking class to learn the secrets of Banarasi cuisine. In the morning, join a cooking class where you'll prepare and savor traditional dishes like Banarasi Biryani, Dum Aloo, and Malai Puri. After the class, enjoy the dishes you've prepared for lunch. In the evening, indulge in a farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views of the city. Taste delicacies like Banarasi Paan Ice Cream, Rabri Jalebi, and Shahi Tukda.

  • Cooking Class: Cost estimated at INR 1500 per person, Time spent: 4 hours
  • Lunch with the prepared dishes: No additional cost, Time spent: 1.5 hours
  • Farewell Dinner at a rooftop restaurant: Cost estimated at INR 1000 per person, Time spent: 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions and places loved by locals, be sure to visit the Kachori Gali near the Dashashwamedh Ghat. It's a narrow lane filled with small shops selling delicious kachoris and other street food snacks. Another gem is the Ramnagar Fort, located on the opposite side of the river. This 18th-century fort offers a glimpse into the rich history of Varanasi. Don't miss out on trying the famous Lassi at Blue Lassi, a popular spot among locals and travelers alike.

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