Welcome to Varanasi, one of the oldest and holiest cities in India. Begin your trip by checking into your hotel and freshening up. In the evening, head to the sacred Ganges River to witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony. The ghats (steps leading down to the river) come alive with priests performing rituals, chanting prayers, and waving oil lamps. Experience the spiritual energy as you watch the synchronized movements amidst the sounds of bells and conch shells.
Ganges River Ghat: Free, 2 hours
Restaurants
Ganga Cafe: Start your day with a delicious Indian breakfast at Ganga Cafe, located near the ghats. Enjoy traditional dishes like masala dosa and fluffy puri bhaji. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
Brown Bread Bakery: For a wholesome lunch, head to Brown Bread Bakery. This cozy eatery offers a variety of sandwiches, salads, and wood-fired pizzas. Don't miss their famous apple pie for dessert. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Varuna Vegetarian Restaurant: Indulge in a vegetarian feast at Varuna Vegetarian Restaurant for dinner. This popular restaurant serves a wide range of North Indian and South Indian dishes. Try their thali for a taste of different flavors. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
Saturday, September 30: Morning Boat Ride and Sarnath
Start your day with a serene boat ride along the Ganges River during sunrise. Witness the colorful spectacle of pilgrims performing their morning prayers and rituals on the ghats. Afterward, visit Sarnath, a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon. Explore the Dhamek Stupa, Mulagandhakuti Vihara, and the Archaeological Museum, which houses ancient artifacts. Immerse yourself in the peaceful ambiance and learn about the rich history of Buddhism.
Ganges River Boat Ride: INR 200 (estimated), 2 hours
Sarnath: INR 250 (estimated), 3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to The Brown Bread Bakery and try their delicious freshly baked breads and pastries. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
If you're looking for a satisfying lunch, visit Tadka Restaurant and indulge in their authentic North Indian cuisine. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
To end your day on a delightful note, dine at Spice Kitchen and savor their wide range of Indian and international dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Sunday, October 1: Temples and Silk Weaving
Dedicate your day to exploring Varanasi's famous temples. Begin with the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and experience the intricate architecture and spiritual atmosphere. Then, visit the Durga Temple, known for its vibrant red color and enchanting idol of the goddess Durga. In the afternoon, explore the Banaras Hindu University and witness the traditional art of silk weaving at the nearby Silk Weaving Center. Observe skilled weavers creating exquisite Banarasi sarees.
Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Free, 2 hours
Durga Temple: Free, 1 hour
Banaras Hindu University: Free, 2 hours
Monday, October 2: Sunrise Yoga and Ghat Walk
Start your final day in Varanasi by rejuvenating your mind and body with a sunrise yoga session along the banks of the Ganges River. Relax, meditate, and practice yoga under the guidance of experienced instructors. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the ghats, observing the daily life and rituals of the locals. Visit the Assi Ghat, Dasaswamedh Ghat, and Manikarnika Ghat, the cremation ghats where Hindu funeral ceremonies take place. Gain a deeper understanding of the city's spiritual significance.
Sunrise Yoga: INR 300 (estimated), 2 hours
Ghat Walk: Free, 3 hours
Restaurants
Agni Cafe: Located near Assi Ghat, this charming cafe offers a wide range of breakfast options including fresh fruit bowls, homemade granola, and delicious omelettes. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Lotus Lounge: Situated near Dasaswamedh Ghat, Lotus Lounge is a popular lunch spot known for its vegetarian thali meals, which feature a variety of local dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Spice of Varanasi: Located close to Manikarnika Ghat, Spice of Varanasi is a vibrant restaurant offering a mix of Indian and international cuisine. From flavorful curries to wood-fired pizzas, this place has something for everyone. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Varanasi, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Ramnagar Fort, located on the opposite bank of the Ganges River. This 18th-century fort showcases a blend of Mughal and Indian architectural styles and houses a museum with antique collections. Another hidden gem is the Bharat Kala Bhavan, an art and archaeological museum within the Banaras Hindu University campus. It exhibits a vast collection of Indian paintings, sculptures, and textiles, offering insights into the country's rich cultural heritage.