Start your trip by immersing yourself in the spiritual and cultural heart of Varanasi. In the morning, head to Dashashwamedh Ghat, one of the oldest and most famous riverfront steps, to witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony. Afterward, take a boat ride along the Ganges River and experience the vibrant atmosphere of the ghats. In the afternoon, visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. As the evening sets in, stroll along the narrow lanes of the old city, known as the alleys of Varanasi, and savor local delicacies at one of the many street food stalls.
Dashashwamedh Ghat: Free, approx. 2 hours
Boat ride on the Ganges River: INR 200-500 per person, approx. 1 hour
Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Free, approx. 1 hour
Exploring the alleys of Varanasi: Cost varies, approx. 2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot near Dashashwamedh Ghat is Sunrise Cafe, known for its delicious pancakes and omelettes. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Govinda's Vegetarian Restaurant, located near Kashi Vishwanath Temple. They serve a variety of vegetarian dishes with authentic flavors. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
In the evening, enjoy a serene dinner at Bana Lassi, a famous lassi shop in the alleys of Varanasi. Apart from lassis, they serve traditional Indian snacks and sweets. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
Sunday, August 27: Sarnath Excursion
Embark on a day trip to Sarnath, a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site located just outside Varanasi. In the morning, visit the Dhamek Stupa, a massive structure marking the spot where Buddha delivered his first sermon. Explore the ruins of the ancient monasteries and the Sarnath Museum, which houses a vast collection of Buddhist artifacts. In the afternoon, take a peaceful walk in the Deer Park, where Buddha gave his initial teachings, and reflect on the serenity of the surroundings. Return to Varanasi in the evening.
Dhamek Stupa: Free, approx. 1 hour
Sarnath Museum: INR 5-10 per person, approx. 1-2 hours
Deer Park: Free, approx. 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Breakfast: Madhur Milan Cafe
A charming cafe known for its delicious vegetarian breakfast options. Enjoy their famous masala dosa or a plate of fluffy idlis. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
Lunch: Ganges View Restaurant
Situated along the banks of the Ganges River, this restaurant offers stunning views and a diverse menu of Indian and international dishes. Try their flavorful curries or opt for a wood-fired pizza. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Dinner: Brown Bread Bakery
A cozy bakery and cafe that serves a mix of Indian and continental cuisine. Indulge in their wood-fired oven pizza or feast on their popular thali meals. Don't forget to try their freshly baked bread and pastries. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
Monday, August 28: Varanasi Silk and Culture
Discover the rich textile heritage of Varanasi in the morning by visiting one of the local silk weaving centers. Witness the intricate craftsmanship and learn about the traditional process of weaving Banarasi silk sarees. In the afternoon, explore the Bharat Kala Bhavan, an art and archaeological museum showcasing a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, and artifacts. In the evening, attend a classical music or dance performance at one of the cultural centers, such as the Sankat Mochan Foundation or the Varanasi Cultural Center.
A cozy cafe located near the silk weaving centers, Varuna Cafe serves a variety of breakfast options including pancakes, omelettes, and traditional Indian dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Lunch: The Great Kebab Factory
For a delicious lunch, head to The Great Kebab Factory. This restaurant offers an extensive menu of succulent kebabs and other North Indian delicacies. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Dinner: Ganges View Rooftop Restaurant
Enjoy a scenic dinner at the Ganges View Rooftop Restaurant, which offers breathtaking views of the holy river. Savor a range of Chinese, Indian, and Continental dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 700 INR per person.
Tuesday, August 29: Varanasi Wildlife and Nature
Escape the city's hustle and bustle by spending the day amidst nature. In the morning, visit the Ramnagar Fort, situated on the eastern bank of the Ganges River. Explore the impressive architecture and the museum inside the fort, which exhibits vintage cars, old weaponry, and royal artifacts. In the afternoon, take a scenic drive to the Chandra Prabha Wildlife Sanctuary, known for its diverse flora and fauna. Enjoy a leisurely nature walk, birdwatching, and a picnic amidst the serene surroundings. Return to Varanasi in the evening.
Ramnagar Fort: INR 10-20 per person, approx. 1-2 hours
For breakfast, head to Madhur Milan Cafe located near Assi Ghat. This cozy cafe offers a range of breakfast options including delicious vegetarian sandwiches and traditional Indian dishes. Expect to pay around Rs 200 per person for a filling breakfast.
If you're looking for a tasty and affordable lunch, visit Shree Cafe in the heart of Varanasi. This local favorite serves a variety of Indian and international dishes, from flavorful curries to delicious pizzas. You can enjoy a satisfying lunch here for an average cost of Rs 300 per person.
For a delightful dinner experience, head to Dosa Cafe near Dashashwamedh Ghat. This restaurant specializes in South Indian cuisine, offering a wide range of dosas and other regional delicacies. A dinner at Dosa Cafe will cost you around Rs 400 per person.
Restaurants
The Breakfast Club: Enjoy a delicious breakfast at this cozy cafe known for their fluffy pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
Taste of India: Indulge in authentic North Indian cuisine at this local favorite for lunch. Their thali meals are a must-try. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
Spice Junction: Savor the flavors of Indian spices at this popular dinner spot. From biryanis to curries, their extensive menu is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Restaurants
A must-visit for breakfast is Blue Lassi Shop, known for its delicious array of lassi flavors and traditional Indian snacks. Average cost for a meal is about ₹150 per person.
For lunch, head to Baati Chokha, a local favorite serving authentic Bihari cuisine including baati, litti, and chokha. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Indulge in a dinner at Pizzeria Vatika, offering a cozy ambiance and a diverse menu of wood-fired pizzas and Italian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Restaurants
Head to The Breakfast Club for a delicious and filling start to the day with their wide variety of breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For a scrumptious lunch, try Shiva's Vegetarian Restaurant, known for its authentic and flavorful vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Indulge in the ambiance and flavors of The Great Kebab Factory for dinner, offering a range of mouthwatering kebabs and Indian delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Varanasi is The Brown Bread Bakery, known for its delicious baked goods and cozy atmosphere. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to the Open Hand Cafe, a vegetarian restaurant offering a variety of healthy and flavorful dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
In the evening, dine at El Parador, a Mexican restaurant known for its authentic flavors and vibrant atmosphere. Average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Varanasi, make sure to visit the following hidden gems and local favorites:
Bharat Mata Mandir: This unique temple dedicated to Mother India houses a relief map of India carved out of marble.
Assi Ghat: A quieter and less crowded ghat, perfect for experiencing yoga, meditation, and serene sunrise/sunset views.
Sri Annapurna Devi Temple: A lesser-known temple dedicated to Goddess Annapurna, known for its peaceful ambiance.
Banaras Hindu University: Take a stroll through this renowned educational institution's sprawling campus, featuring beautiful architecture and lush gardens.