Start your trip to Varanasi by immersing yourself in the spiritual charm of this ancient city. In the morning, visit the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Witness the morning Aarti ceremony on the banks of the sacred Ganges River, where priests perform rituals with incense, lamps, and flowers. Afterward, take a boat ride along the river to observe the various ghats (steps leading to the river) and the vibrant activity along the waterfront. In the afternoon, explore the narrow lanes of the Old City, known as Varanasi's heart. Indulge in local street food and visit the famous lassi shops. As the evening sets in, attend the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, where priests offer prayers with fire and chant mantras.
Ganges River Boat Ride: Cost Estimate - INR 500-1000 ($7-14) per boat, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Exploring the Old City: Cost Estimate - Varies, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
Restaurants
Aaloo Tikki Wala: Start your day with a visit to Aaloo Tikki Wala, a local eatery famous for its delicious potato cutlets. Enjoy crispy and flavorful aaloo tikkis served with chutney. The average cost for a meal is about ₹50 per person.
Deena Chat Bhandar: For lunch, head to Deena Chat Bhandar, known for its mouthwatering street food. Try their famous dahi puri, a tangy and sweet snack filled with yogurt, chutney, and spices. The average cost for a meal is about ₹100 per person.
Blue Lassi: End your day with a unique dinner experience at Blue Lassi, a popular lassi shop in Varanasi. Enjoy a variety of traditional lassi flavors, such as mango, rose, and saffron. The average cost for a meal is about ₹80 per person.
Restaurants
Enjoy a traditional Indian breakfast at Varq, located in the heart of Varanasi. Delight in dishes like poha, aloo paratha, and masala chai. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Savor a delicious lunch at The Great Kabab Factory, known for its wide variety of kebabs and Indian delicacies. Choose from options like tandoori prawns, seekh kebabs, and butter chicken. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
For dinner, head to Open Hand Café, a cozy restaurant offering a blend of Indian and international cuisine. Indulge in dishes like pasta, burgers, and thalis while enjoying the serene ambiance. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Thursday, September 14: Varanasi Excursions
Embark on a day of adventurous excursions around Varanasi. In the morning, head to Sarnath, located just outside the city, to explore the ancient Buddhist site where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon. Visit the Dhamek Stupa, the Ashoka Pillar, and the Sarnath Museum to learn about the rich history and significance of this place. Afterward, indulge in some river rafting on the Ganges or try your hand at parasailing for an adrenaline rush. In the afternoon, relax and rejuvenate with a traditional Ayurvedic massage at one of Varanasi's renowned wellness centers. In the evening, enjoy a lively boat party on the Ganges, complete with music, drinks, and local delicacies.
Sarnath Excursion: Cost Estimate - INR 500-1000 ($7-14) for transportation, Time Spent - 3-4 hours
River Rafting or Parasailing: Cost Estimate - INR 2000-3000 ($28-42) per person, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Ayurvedic Massage: Cost Estimate - INR 1500-2000 ($21-28) per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Ganges Boat Party: Cost Estimate - INR 2000-3000 ($28-42) per person, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Varanasi, make sure to visit the Manikarnika Ghat, one of the oldest and most sacred cremation sites in the city. It offers a unique insight into the cycle of life and death. Another offbeat attraction is the Ramnagar Fort, located on the opposite bank of the Ganges. This beautiful fort showcases the royal heritage of the region. For a taste of local nightlife, head to the Assi Ghat area, where you'll find vibrant cafes and rooftop bars. Enjoy live music performances, local brews, and delicious snacks while soaking in the energetic ambiance. These hidden gems and local favorites will add an extra dimension to your bachelor party experience in Varanasi.
For hotel and flight bookings, you can check prices on Kayak.