Start your bachelor party adventure with an early morning boat tour on the sacred River Ganges. Witness the mesmerizing sunrise as you float along the river, passing by the famous ghats of Varanasi. Gaze at devotees performing their morning rituals, and absorb the spiritual ambiance of this holy city. The boat tour lasts for approximately two hours, giving you ample time to immerse yourself in the serene surroundings.
River Ganges Boat Tour: Prices start at £10 per person, duration: 2 hours
Restaurants
The Breakfast Club: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Breakfast Club, located near the River Ganges. With a variety of options ranging from classic Indian parathas to hearty American pancakes, this restaurant has something for everyone. The average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Saffron Spice: For lunch, head to Saffron Spice, a popular restaurant known for its authentic Indian cuisine. Indulge in flavorful curries, aromatic biryanis, and an array of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. The average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Spice Route: Enjoy a memorable dinner at Spice Route, a fine dining restaurant that offers a fusion of Indian and international flavors. From succulent kebabs to creative seafood dishes, the menu is diverse and the ambiance is elegant. The average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Afternoon: Explore the Old City
In the afternoon, explore the narrow lanes and bustling bazaars of the Old City. Get lost in the vibrant chaos as you discover ancient temples, traditional markets, and local street food stalls. Visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and experience the spiritual energy within its sacred walls. Indulge in local delicacies like chaats, kachoris, and lassi, which Varanasi is famous for.
Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Free entry, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
Exploring the Old City: Cost varies based on personal expenses, estimated time spent: 3-4 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot is Shree Cafe, known for its delicious South Indian dosas and filter coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Dolphin Restaurant, which offers a variety of Indian and international cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
In the evening, dine at Pizzeria Vatika Cafe, a charming restaurant with a serene garden setting. Enjoy their wood-fired pizzas and refreshing cocktails. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Evening: Nighttime Aarti Ceremony
As the evening sets in, witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti, a grand ritual performed at the Dashashwamedh Ghat. Join the crowd of devotees and tourists as the priests offer prayers to the River Ganges amidst chanting and the sound of bells. The spectacular display of lights, incense, and rhythmic rituals creates an unforgettable atmosphere. After the ceremony, enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the riverside restaurants.
Ganga Aarti Ceremony: Free to attend, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
Dinner at a riverside restaurant: Prices vary based on preferences
Day 2: Tuesday, October 31, 2023
Restaurants
Cafe Lotus: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe Lotus, known for its freshly brewed coffee and a variety of breakfast options. Indulge in fluffy pancakes, waffles, or a traditional English breakfast. The average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
El Bueno: For lunch, head to El Bueno, a Mexican restaurant located near the riverside. Enjoy their flavorful tacos, burritos, and quesadillas. The average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Brown Bread Bakery: For dinner, visit Brown Bread Bakery, a charming European-style cafe offering a wide range of dishes including pizzas, pastas, and sandwiches. Don't forget to try their freshly baked bread. The average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Brown Bread Bakery & Cafe, a charming eatery known for its freshly baked bread and pastries. Indulge in their scrumptious breakfast options like pancakes, omelettes, and sandwiches. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, visit Spice Kitchen, a popular restaurant offering a range of Indian and international cuisine. Enjoy their flavorful curries, biryanis, and kebabs that cater to all taste preferences. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
For dinner, dine at Bana Lassi & Restaurant, a traditional Indian restaurant known for its extensive menu and lip-smacking vegetarian dishes. Try their delicious thalis and lassis for a truly authentic experience. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Morning: Sarnath Excursion
Embark on a morning excursion to Sarnath, a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site located just outside Varanasi. Visit the Dhamek Stupa, where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after achieving enlightenment, and explore the various temples and ruins in the area. Immerse yourself in the peaceful ambiance and learn about the rich history of Buddhism in India.
Sarnath Excursion: Cost of transportation and entry fees for specific sites, estimated time spent: 3-4 hours
Afternoon: Varanasi Street Food Tour
No trip to Varanasi is complete without indulging in its mouthwatering street food. Join a guided street food tour and sample a variety of local delicacies from different vendors. Savor the flavors of famous dishes like kachori sabzi, paan, malaiyyo, and banarasi pan. Explore the bustling streets and let your taste buds go on a delightful journey through the city's culinary delights.
Varanasi Street Food Tour: Prices start at £20 per person, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Evening: Nightlife at Assi Ghat
End your bachelor party on a lively note by heading to Assi Ghat in the evening. This vibrant ghat is known for its bohemian atmosphere and lively nightlife. Enjoy live music performances, dance to traditional tunes, and unwind at the riverside cafes and bars. Embrace the celebratory spirit of Varanasi and create memories to cherish with your friends.
Nightlife at Assi Ghat: Cost varies based on personal expenses, estimated time spent: 3-4 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While Varanasi offers numerous iconic attractions, there are also some hidden gems and local favorites worth exploring. As a bachelor party group, consider visiting Manikarnika Ghat, the main cremation ghat, to witness the unique rituals and gain a deeper understanding of Hindu culture. You can also take a sunrise yoga class by the river, combining relaxation and spirituality. Additionally, exploring the local silk weaver workshops and purchasing traditional Banarasi silk sarees can be a memorable experience.
For hotel and flight bookings in Varanasi, check out Kayak for the best prices and options.