Start your trip with a morning boat ride along the Ganges River, a sacred waterway filled with rituals and spirituality. Witness the pilgrims performing their morning prayers and immerse yourself in the spiritual energy of Varanasi. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and marvel at its intricate architecture. As the evening sets in, head to the Dashashwamedh Ghat to witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony, a devotional ritual performed with incense, lamps, and chants.
Ganges River Boat Ride: INR 200 (per person), 2 hours
Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Free entry, 1-2 hours
Dashashwamedh Ghat and Ganga Aarti: Free entry, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Brown Bread Bakery. This popular bakery offers a variety of freshly baked goods, including pastries, bread, and sandwiches. Enjoy a satisfying meal for about Rs. 200 per person.
For lunch, head over to Blue Lassi, a must-visit spot in Varanasi. Indulge in their famous lassi, a traditional Indian yogurt-based drink, available in various flavors and topped with fresh fruits. A lassi here costs around Rs. 100 per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, dine at Open Hand Cafe. This rooftop restaurant offers stunning views of the Ganges River and serves a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes inspired by Indian and international cuisines. Expect to spend about Rs. 400 per person for a delightful dinner.
Tuesday, January 2: Heritage of Varanasi
Begin your day by visiting the Sarnath Archaeological Site, where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon. Explore the ruins, museums, and the Dhamek Stupa, a significant Buddhist monument. In the afternoon, take a heritage walk through the narrow lanes of Varanasi's old city, known as the 'kachauri gali' or 'kachori gali' for its delicious street food. Experience the vibrant local markets, such as Vishwanath Gali and Thatheri Bazaar, known for their traditional crafts and textiles. In the evening, indulge in a classical music and dance performance at a cultural center.
Cultural Performance: INR 500-1000 (per person), 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a sumptuous breakfast at Kashi Vishwanath Breakfast Joint, known for its delicious and authentic Varanasi-style kachoris and chai. Average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
For a delightful lunch experience, head to Baati Chokha, a local favorite known for its traditional Rajasthani cuisine. Enjoy the mouthwatering baati, daal bati churma, and other Rajasthani delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
End your day with a flavorful dinner at Brown Bread Bakery and Cafe, a cozy European style restaurant located in a quiet alley. Indulge in their delicious wood-fired pizzas, pasta dishes, and freshly baked bread. Average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.
Wednesday, January 3: Varanasi Food and Wellness
Start your day with a yoga and meditation session to embrace the spiritual essence of Varanasi. Afterward, indulge in a traditional Banarasi breakfast at a local eatery, savoring dishes like kachori, jalebi, and lassi. In the afternoon, visit the famous Banaras Hindu University, known for its beautiful campus and the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, exhibiting a remarkable collection of Indian art and artifacts. End your trip by pampering yourself with an Ayurvedic massage or spa treatment, rejuvenating both your body and mind.
Yoga and Meditation: INR 500-1000 (per person), 2 hours
Traditional Banarasi Breakfast: INR 200-400 (per person), 1 hour
Banaras Hindu University and Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum: Free entry, 2-3 hours
For a cultural immersion off the beaten path, consider visiting the Ramnagar Fort, a less crowded attraction with stunning architecture and a museum showcasing the royal collection. Explore the nearby village of Sarai Mohana, known for its silk weaving and handloom industry. Engage with locals, learn about their craft, and even try your hand at weaving. Another gem is the Manikarnika Ghat, one of the main cremation ghats, where you can witness the circle of life and death ceremonies, offering a profound cultural experience.