7-Day Varanasi Itinerary

Monday, October 16: Explore the Spiritual Side

Start your trip by immersing yourself in the spiritual atmosphere of Varanasi. In the morning, visit the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most revered Hindu temples in India. Afterward, take a boat ride along the holy Ganges River, witnessing the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony in the evening. Wrap up your day with a visit to the Dashashwamedh Ghat, where you can witness the beautiful evening Ganga Aarti.

  • Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Cost: Free, Time: 2 hours
  • Boat Ride on Ganges River: Cost: ₹300-500, Time: 1.5 hours
  • Dashashwamedh Ghat: Cost: Free, Time: 1 hour
Tuesday, October 17: Sarnath Excursion

Embark on a day trip to Sarnath, an important Buddhist pilgrimage site. In the morning, explore the ancient ruins and the famous Dhamekh Stupa. Visit the Sarnath Museum to learn about the rich history and art of Buddhism. Enjoy a tranquil afternoon meditating in the peaceful surroundings of Sarnath. Return to Varanasi in the evening.

  • Dhamekh Stupa: Cost: Free, Time: 1 hour
  • Sarnath Museum: Cost: ₹5-10, Time: 1-2 hours
  • Meditation in Sarnath: Cost: Free, Time: Flexible
Wednesday, October 18: Old City Exploration

Get lost in the winding alleys of Varanasi's Old City, also known as the Kashi Vishwanath Temple area. Start your day by visiting the iconic Manikarnika Ghat, where cremation ceremonies take place. Explore the narrow lanes lined with vibrant shops selling silk sarees and handicrafts. In the evening, witness the Ganga Aarti at the Assi Ghat.

  • Manikarnika Ghat: Cost: Free, Time: 1 hour
  • Exploring Old City: Cost: Free, Time: 3-4 hours
  • Ganga Aarti at Assi Ghat: Cost: Free, Time: 1 hour
Thursday, October 19: Varanasi Food Trail

Indulge in the flavors of Varanasi's culinary delights. Start your day with a traditional breakfast of kachori and jalebi at a local eatery. Visit the famous Blue Lassi Shop to savor delicious lassi flavors. In the afternoon, have a thali lunch at a local vegetarian restaurant. End your food trail with a visit to the Banaras Paan Shop and try the famous Banarasi paan.

  • Breakfast at a local eatery: Cost: ₹100-200, Time: 1 hour
  • Blue Lassi Shop: Cost: ₹50-100, Time: 30 minutes
  • Thali lunch at a local restaurant: Cost: ₹200-400, Time: 1-2 hours
  • Banaras Paan Shop: Cost: ₹50-100, Time: 30 minutes
Friday, October 20: Glimpse of Varanasi Arts

Discover the artistic side of Varanasi. Start your day with a visit to the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, showcasing a vast collection of Indian art and artifacts. Explore the Weaver's Village to witness the intricate process of silk weaving. Enjoy a traditional Kathak dance performance in the evening at the Kathak Kendra.

  • Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum: Cost: ₹20-50, Time: 1-2 hours
  • Weaver's Village: Cost: Free, Time: 1-2 hours
  • Kathak dance performance at Kathak Kendra: Cost: ₹200-500, Time: 2 hours
Saturday, October 21: Day Trip to Ramnagar Fort

Embark on a day trip to the historic Ramnagar Fort. Explore the magnificent palace, which serves as the residence of the royal family of Varanasi. Visit the museum inside the fort to learn about the rich history of the region. Enjoy a boat ride on the Ganges River, showcasing stunning views of the fort from the water. Return to Varanasi in the evening.

  • Ramnagar Fort: Cost: ₹15-30, Time: 2-3 hours
  • Boat ride on Ganges River: Cost: ₹300-500, Time: 1.5 hours
Sunday, October 22: Banaras Hindu University & Hidden Gems

Explore the prestigious Banaras Hindu University (BHU), known for its beautiful campus and academic significance. Visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan inside BHU to see its remarkable art collection. In the afternoon, explore hidden gems like the Alamgir Mosque and the Nepali Temple. End your trip with a serene evening walk along the peaceful Assi Ghat.

  • Banaras Hindu University: Cost: Free, Time: 2-3 hours
  • Bharat Kala Bhavan in BHU: Cost: ₹20-50, Time: 1-2 hours
  • Alamgir Mosque and Nepali Temple: Cost: Free, Time: 1-2 hours
  • Evening walk at Assi Ghat: Cost: Free, Time: 1 hour

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While in Varanasi, make sure to visit the off the beaten path attractions like the Chunar Fort, located about 40 kilometers from Varanasi. This ancient fort offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Another local favorite is the Ramnagar Village, where you can experience rural life, interact with locals, and witness traditional crafts.

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