7-Day Itinerary: Prayagraj, Varanasi, and Gaya

Friday, October 6: Prayagraj (Allahabad)

In the morning, start your trip by visiting the iconic Triveni Sangam, the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati rivers. Experience a boat ride and immerse yourself in the spiritual aura. In the afternoon, explore the magnificent Allahabad Fort, built by Emperor Akbar. As the evening sets in, visit the All Saints Cathedral, a beautiful Anglican church.

• Triveni Sangam: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Allahabad Fort: Estimated Cost - INR 20, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• All Saints Cathedral: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• A popular breakfast spot is The Grand Trunk, known for its delicious Indian and continental options. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
• If you're looking for a satisfying lunch, head to Spice Court. This restaurant offers a diverse menu of Indian and international cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
• For dinner, try Tandoor Villa, a cozy restaurant famous for its authentic Indian tandoori dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.

Saturday, October 7: Varanasi

In the morning, witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat. Afterward, explore the narrow winding lanes of the ancient city, known as the spiritual capital of India. In the afternoon, take a boat ride on the Ganges to witness the famous ghats and temples. As the evening approaches, visit the beautiful Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva.

• Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Boat Ride on the Ganges: Estimated Cost - INR 200-300, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• Head to Vishnu Tea Stall for a traditional Indian breakfast with dishes like Poha and Masala Chai. Average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
• For lunch, try Kashi Chat Bhandar, famous for its mouth-watering chaat items like Pani Puri and Aloo Tikki. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
• End your day with a delightful dinner at Bona Café and Restaurant, offering a variety of Indian and international cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.

Sunday, October 8: Varanasi

In the morning, experience a serene boat ride at sunrise to witness the ancient rituals and spiritual practices along the ghats. Afterward, visit the Sarnath archaeological site, where Buddha gave his first sermon. In the afternoon, explore the Ramnagar Fort, a beautiful riverside fort. As the evening sets in, enjoy a cultural show at the Dashashwamedh Ghat.

• Sunrise Boat Ride: Estimated Cost - INR 300-500, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Sarnath Archaeological Site: Estimated Cost - INR 100-200, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Ramnagar Fort: Estimated Cost - INR 20-50, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Cultural Show at Dashashwamedh Ghat: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Monday, October 9: Varanasi to Gaya

In the morning, travel from Varanasi to Gaya, a city known for its spiritual significance in Buddhism. Visit the Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment. In the afternoon, explore the Chinese Temple and the Bodhi Tree. As the evening approaches, take part in a meditation session at one of the monasteries.

• Mahabodhi Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Chinese Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Bodhi Tree: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Meditation Session at Monastery: Estimated Cost - Donations, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Tuesday, October 10: Gaya

In the morning, visit the Vishnupad Temple, an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Afterward, explore the archaeological site of Bodh Gaya, where the Bodhi Tree is located. In the afternoon, take a dip in the holy Brahma Kund. As the evening sets in, enjoy a peaceful walk along the serene banks of the Phalgu River.

• Vishnupad Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Bodh Gaya Archaeological Site: Estimated Cost - INR 50-100, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Brahma Kund: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Phalgu River: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Wednesday, October 11: Gaya

In the morning, visit the Dungeshwari Cave Temples, where Buddha meditated extensively. Afterward, explore the tranquil surroundings of Surya Kund. In the afternoon, take a guided tour to Barabar Caves, ancient rock-cut caves. As the evening approaches, enjoy a scenic sunset view from the top of Pretshila Hill.

• Dungeshwari Cave Temples: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Surya Kund: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Barabar Caves: Estimated Cost - INR 100-200, Time Spent - 3-4 hours
• Pretshila Hill: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Thursday, October 12: Gaya to Prayagraj (Allahabad)

In the morning, travel from Gaya back to Prayagraj. Visit the Anand Bhavan, the former residence of the Nehru-Gandhi family and now a museum. In the afternoon, explore the stunning Khusro Bagh, a historic garden. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely walk along the beautiful Alfred Park.

• Anand Bhavan: Estimated Cost - INR 20-50, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Khusro Bagh: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Alfred Park: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Prayagraj, Varanasi, and Gaya, don't miss the chance to visit the stunning Ramnagar Fort in Varanasi, which offers panoramic views of the Ganges River. Another hidden gem is the Chunar Fort near Varanasi, known for its historical significance and architectural brilliance. Locals love to visit the Manikarnika Ghat in Varanasi, the most sacred cremation ground along the Ganges, to witness the rituals and understand the cycle of life and death.

For a unique experience, head to the Bharadwaj Ashram in Gaya, where you can participate in yoga and meditation sessions guided by experienced instructors. Finally, visit the Bharadwaj Sarovar, a serene lake in Gaya, perfect for a peaceful stroll amidst nature.

Plan your stay and book flights using this link to check hotel and flight prices.