Begin your trip by arriving in Varanasi, one of the oldest and holiest cities in India. In the morning, take a boat ride along the sacred Ganges River and witness the mesmerizing sunrise. Afternoon is the perfect time to explore the narrow lanes of the old city, known as the "ghats," where you can experience the spiritual rituals and ceremonies. In the evening, attend the Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat, where priests perform a mesmerizing ritual of worship using fire and chants.
Ganges Boat Ride: Cost Estimate - INR 200 per person, Time Spent - 2 hours
Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Varanasi is Brown Bread Bakery. They offer a variety of delicious baked goods, such as croissants and muffins. The average cost for a breakfast meal is about 200 INR per person.
If you're looking for a place to have lunch, head to Blue Lassi. Known for their creamy and refreshing lassis, they also serve simple vegetarian dishes. The average cost for a lunch meal is about 150 INR per person.
For a fantastic dinner experience, try Bati Chokha. This traditional restaurant specializes in Bihari cuisine, offering dishes like litti-chokha and sattu paratha. The average cost for a dinner meal is about 300 INR per person.
Monday, September 11: Sarnath Excursion
On the second day, visit Sarnath, a nearby town famous for being the place where Gautama Buddha gave his first sermon. In the morning, explore the Dhamek Stupa, a massive structure dating back to the 5th century. Afterward, visit the Sarnath Museum, which houses an impressive collection of Buddhist artifacts. In the afternoon, you can spend time meditating and reflecting in the peaceful surroundings of the Mulagandhakuti Vihara.
Dhamek Stupa: Cost Estimate - INR 100 per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Sarnath Museum: Cost Estimate - INR 10 per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
For breakfast, head to Shri Rathi Restaurant, known for its delicious South Indian dishes like idli and dosa. Average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
For lunch, try out Northern Flavours, a popular restaurant offering a wide variety of North Indian delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For dinner, treat yourself to authentic Varanasi cuisine at Keshari Restaurant, known for its mouthwatering thalis and kebabs. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Tuesday, September 12: Varanasi Temples
Explore the various temples of Varanasi on the third day. Start with a visit to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Afterward, visit the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, known for its spiritual atmosphere and beautiful surroundings. In the afternoon, head to the Tulsi Manas Temple, a modern marble temple dedicated to Lord Rama. Finish off the day with a visit to the Bharat Mata Temple, which showcases a relief map of India carved out of marble.
Bharat Mata Temple: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Enjoy a traditional Indian breakfast at The Great Kebab Factory, known for its wide selection of kebabs, curries, and biryanis. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Savor authentic Varanasi cuisine for lunch at Shree Cafe, a popular local spot known for its thali meals and delicious sweets. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Indulge in a delightful dinner at Open Hand Cafe, offering a fusion of Indian, Tibetan, and European cuisine. Don't miss their rooftop seating with stunning views. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Wednesday, September 13: Varanasi Silk and Shopping
Discover the rich silk weaving traditions of Varanasi on the fourth day. Start by visiting the Banaras Silk Emporium, where you can witness the intricate process of silk weaving and purchase exquisite silk products. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant markets of Varanasi, such as the Vishwanath Gali and Thatheri Bazaar, for handicrafts, jewelry, and traditional clothing. Don't forget to bargain for the best prices!
Shopping at Vishwanath Gali and Thatheri Bazaar: Cost Estimate - Varies, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Head to Shree Cafe for a delicious breakfast with a variety of options including freshly brewed coffee, freshly baked pastries, and Indian breakfast specialties. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, try the famous Baati Chokha restaurant known for its authentic Bihari cuisine. Enjoy traditional dishes like litti chokha and sattu paratha. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
For dinner, experience the flavors of Varanasi at Kashi Chat Bhandar, a popular street food joint known for its chaats and other local snacks. Average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
Thursday, September 14: Ramnagar Fort and Museum
On the fifth day, visit the Ramnagar Fort and Museum, located on the eastern bank of the Ganges River. Explore the intricately designed palace, which is still home to the royal family of Varanasi. Discover the museum's collection of vintage cars, medieval weapons, and artifacts showcasing the rich history of the region. Take a leisurely walk along the fort's ramparts for panoramic views of the river and the city.
Ramnagar Fort: Cost Estimate - INR 15 per person, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Ramnagar Museum: Cost Estimate - INR 5 per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Friday, September 15: Varanasi Food Tour
Indulge in the delicious culinary delights of Varanasi on the sixth day. Start your food tour with a traditional breakfast of kachori and jalebi at a local eatery. Explore the streets of Varanasi to sample famous snacks like chaat, samosa, and lassi. For lunch, try the local specialty, thandai, and savor mouthwatering vegetarian dishes at a traditional thali restaurant. In the evening, end your food tour with a boat ride and enjoy the famous paan, a betel leaf preparation, as a refreshing after-meal treat.
Breakfast at a Local Eatery: Cost Estimate - INR 100 per person, Time Spent - 1 hour
Street Food Sampling: Cost Estimate - Varies, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Lunch at a Thali Restaurant: Cost Estimate - INR 300 per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Boat Ride and Paan: Cost Estimate - INR 200 per person, Time Spent - 1 hour
Saturday, September 16: Yoga and Meditation
On the final day, immerse yourself in the spiritual practices of Varanasi. Start the morning by attending a yoga and meditation session at one of the many yoga centers in the city. Learn ancient techniques and experience a sense of tranquility and inner peace. In the afternoon, rejuvenate with an Ayurvedic massage and spa treatment, known for their therapeutic benefits. End the day with a leisurely walk along the banks of the Ganges, reflecting on the wonderful experiences of your trip.
Yoga and Meditation Session: Cost Estimate - INR 500 per person, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Ayurvedic Massage and Spa Treatment: Cost Estimate - INR 1500 per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Varanasi, don't miss out on the hidden gems and local favorites. Visit the Manikarnika Ghat, one of the main cremation ghats of Varanasi, to gain a deeper understanding of the cycle of life and death. Discover the charming alleyways of Bengali Tola, known for their traditional music and dance performances. Additionally, explore the Ramnagar village, located on the outskirts of Varanasi, to experience rural life and witness the old-world charm of the region.