Welcome to Varanasi! Start your trip by checking into your hotel and freshening up. In the morning, head to the iconic Dashashwamedh Ghat on the banks of the Ganges River. Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony, a spiritual ritual where devotees offer prayers and lit lamps to the river. Afterward, take a boat ride along the river to soak in the enchanting atmosphere. In the evening, explore the bustling lanes of Varanasi and savor delicious street food.
Dashashwamedh Ghat: Free, 2 hours
Boat Ride on the Ganges: INR 200-500 per person, 1-2 hours
Exploring Varanasi's Street Food: INR 200-500 per person, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Madhur Milan Cafe, a popular local eatery known for its delicious traditional Indian breakfast dishes like puri sabzi and kachori. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, try the authentic flavors of Bati Chokha, a cozy restaurant offering a variety of Bihari dishes made from organic ingredients. Don't miss their signature dish, litti chokha. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For dinner, experience the vibrant ambiance of Baati Chokha, a renowned restaurant serving Rajasthani and North Indian cuisine. With live music performances and a traditional setting, it offers a memorable dining experience. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Saturday, August 19: Temples and Sarnath
Start your day with a visit to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Take a guided tour to learn about the temple's history and significance. In the afternoon, visit the beautiful Sarnath, a sacred Buddhist site where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon. Explore the Dhamek Stupa, visit the Sarnath Museum, and enjoy the serene ambiance of this historical place. End the day with a boat ride during sunset for picturesque views of the river.
Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
Sarnath Visit: INR 100-200 per person (includes entry to museum), 3-4 hours
Boat Ride during Sunset: INR 200-500 per person, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Head to Madhur Milan Cafe for a traditional Indian breakfast experience. This charming cafe offers a variety of fresh and flavorful dishes such as poha, sabudana khichdi, and aloo puri. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Shri Annapurna Restaurant, known for its delicious vegetarian thalis. Indulge in a wide array of traditional North Indian dishes like dal makhani, paneer tikka, and butter naan. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
Savor a delightful dinner at Vaatika Cafe, an open-air restaurant with a serene ambiance. Feast on their specialties like tandoori kebabs, biryanis, and mouthwatering desserts. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Sunday, August 20: Cultural Exploration
Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Varanasi today. Start with a visit to the historic Banaras Hindu University, known for its beautiful campus and the Bharat Kala Bhavan museum. Explore the museum's art collection, showcasing traditional Indian paintings, sculptures, and textiles. In the afternoon, attend a classical music or dance performance at one of the city's renowned cultural centers. End the day with a leisurely walk along the ghats, watching the evening rituals.
Banaras Hindu University and Bharat Kala Bhavan: Free, 2-3 hours
Classical Music/Dance Performance: INR 300-1000 per person, 2-3 hours
Evening Ghat Walk: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Brown Bread Bakery and enjoy their wide selection of freshly baked breads and pastries. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, try Baati Chokha and indulge in their authentic Bihari cuisine, particularly the traditional baati and litti dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For dinner, visit Ganga View Cafe and enjoy delicious Indian and Continental dishes while taking in the stunning view of the Ganges River. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Monday, August 21: Sunrise Boat Ride and Shopping
Wake up early to catch the mesmerizing sunrise over the Ganges River during a boat ride. Experience the serene beauty of the city as it awakens. Afterward, explore the bustling markets of Varanasi. Visit the vibrant silk weaving centers and shop for traditional Banarasi sarees, textiles, and handicrafts. In the afternoon, indulge in a relaxing Ayurvedic massage or spa treatment to rejuvenate. End your day with a delicious dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the river.
Sunrise Boat Ride: INR 200-500 per person, 1-2 hours
Shopping in Varanasi Markets: INR 500-2000, 2-3 hours
Dinner at Rooftop Restaurant: INR 500-1500 per person, 2 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Varanasi, don't miss out on the hidden gems and local favorites. Visit the offbeat Manikarnika Ghat, where Hindu cremations take place, to gain insights into the circle of life and death. Take a rickshaw ride through the narrow lanes of Varanasi's old city, known as "galis," to experience its authentic charm. Don't forget to try the famous local delicacies like "Banarasi paan" (betel leaf), "tamatar chaat" (tomato-based street food), and "thandai" (a refreshing drink made with milk, nuts, and spices).