Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

7-Day Adventure in Varanasi, India

Thursday, August 17: Arrive in Varanasi

Welcome to Varanasi, India's spiritual capital. Start your adventure by exploring the ancient city's hidden alleys and vibrant markets in the morning. In the afternoon, take a boat ride along the sacred Ganges River to witness the evening Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat. Experience the spiritual atmosphere as the evening sets in. In the evening, savor local street food delights at Chowk, known for its delicious snacks.

  • Exploring Varanasi's Streets: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 3 hours
  • Ganges River Boat Ride: Cost - INR 200 (approximately), Time Spent - 2 hours
  • Aarti Ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
  • Street Food at Chowk: Cost - INR 200 (approximately), Time Spent - 1 hour
Friday, August 18: Varanasi Temples and Sarnath

Start your day by visiting the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Explore the intricate architecture and immerse yourself in the spiritual vibes. In the afternoon, take a trip to Sarnath, where Buddha gave his first sermon. Visit the Dhamek Stupa, Mulagandha Kuti Vihar, and the Sarnath Museum to learn about Buddhism's rich history. End your day with a relaxing boat ride on the Ganges during sunset.

  • Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
  • Sarnath Excursion: Cost - INR 500 (approximately), Time Spent - 4 hours
  • Ganges Boat Ride at Sunset: Cost - INR 200 (approximately), Time Spent - 1 hour
Saturday, August 19: Varanasi Ghats and Silk Weaving

Explore the ghats (steps leading to the river) in the morning, starting from Assi Ghat to Manikarnika Ghat. Witness the rituals, ceremonies, and bathing rituals at various ghats. In the afternoon, visit a silk weaving center to witness the intricate process of making Banarasi silk sarees. Try your hand at weaving under the guidance of local artisans. In the evening, enjoy a cultural performance of classical music or dance.

  • Ghat Exploration: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 3 hours
  • Silk Weaving Center: Cost - INR 200 (approximately), Time Spent - 2 hours
  • Cultural Performance: Cost - INR 500 (approximately), Time Spent - 2 hours
Sunday, August 20: Varanasi Rural Experience

Embark on an adventurous journey to the nearby rural villages of Varanasi. Experience the rural lifestyle, interact with locals, and participate in traditional activities like pottery making, farming, and cooking. Enjoy a homemade lunch prepared by a village family. In the evening, go for a nature walk in the countryside and witness the breathtaking sunset.

  • Rural Village Visit: Cost - INR 1000 (approximately), Time Spent - 6 hours
  • Nature Walk: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
Monday, August 21: Varanasi Food Tour

Indulge in the culinary delights of Varanasi on a food tour. Start with a morning visit to the local spice market, followed by a cooking class where you'll learn to prepare traditional dishes. Enjoy a delicious lunch with a view of the Ganges. In the afternoon, explore the famous street food stalls, trying local favorites like kachori, chaat, and lassi. End the day with a boat ride to witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti.

  • Spice Market Visit: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
  • Cooking Class: Cost - INR 1000 (approximately), Time Spent - 3 hours
  • Street Food Tour: Cost - INR 500 (approximately), Time Spent - 3 hours
  • Ganga Aarti Boat Ride: Cost - INR 200 (approximately), Time Spent - 1 hour
Tuesday, August 22: Varanasi Yoga and Meditation

Start your day with a rejuvenating yoga and meditation session at one of the renowned yoga centers in Varanasi. Learn various yoga poses and techniques from experienced instructors. Afterward, visit the Bharat Mata Temple, dedicated to Mother India, showcasing a relief map of the country. Explore the nearby markets for handicraft shopping. In the evening, enjoy a peaceful boat ride to witness the illuminated ghats.

  • Yoga and Meditation Session: Cost - INR 500 (approximately), Time Spent - 2 hours
  • Bharat Mata Temple: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
  • Market Shopping: Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 2 hours
  • Illuminated Ghats Boat Ride: Cost - INR 200 (approximately), Time Spent - 1 hour
Wednesday, August 23: Varanasi Sunrise and Departure

Wake up early to witness the beautiful sunrise over the Ganges. Take a serene boat ride as the morning prayers and rituals take place at the ghats. Afterward, visit the famous Banaras Hindu University and explore the vast campus, including the Bharat Kala Bhavan museum. Say goodbye to Varanasi and depart for your onward journey, carrying beautiful memories of this spiritual adventure.

  • Sunrise Boat Ride: Cost - INR 200 (approximately), Time Spent - 2 hours
  • Banaras Hindu University Visit: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For adventure seekers, don't miss the opportunity to go on a thrilling paragliding or hot air balloon ride over the holy city of Varanasi. Experience the breathtaking aerial views and the unique perspective of the Ganges River and the surrounding landscapes. Another local favorite is a cycling tour through the rural outskirts of Varanasi, where you can explore picturesque villages, lush farmlands, and interact with friendly locals.

Check out kayak.com to find the best hotel and flight prices for your Varanasi adventure.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version