Saturday, December 23: Exploring the Spiritual Essence
Begin your journey in Banaras by delving into the city's rich spiritual heritage. In the morning, visit the revered Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Witness the captivating Aarti ceremony on the banks of the holy Ganges River. Afterward, head to the nearby Dashashwamedh Ghat to take a boat ride along the river, immersing yourself in the sacred ambiance. In the evening, explore the narrow lanes of the old city, known as the galis, and savor local delicacies at the famous Kachori Gali.
Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Entry is free.
Boat ride along the Ganges River: Estimated cost - INR 300 per person, time spent - 1.5 hours.
Exploring the galis: Food costs vary, time spent - 2 hours.
Restaurants
Head to Madhur Milan Cafe for breakfast, a popular local eatery known for its delicious vegetarian options. Enjoy a hearty traditional Indian breakfast here, with average cost for a meal being about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, visit Adarsh Bhojanalaya, a famous restaurant serving authentic Banarasi cuisine. Try their thali, a platter with a variety of local dishes, with an average cost for a meal being about 300 INR per person.
In the evening, have dinner at the iconic Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe, known for its delectable wood-fired pizzas and relaxed ambiance. Indulge in their gourmet pizzas, with average cost for a meal being about 500 INR per person.
Sunday, December 24: Exploring Cultural Heritage
Experience the cultural vibrancy of Banaras on your second day. Start with a visit to the Banaras Hindu University, one of the largest residential universities in Asia. Explore the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, which houses a vast collection of art and archaeological artifacts. In the afternoon, witness the mesmerizing silk-weaving process at a local saree workshop. In the evening, attend a classical music concert at the renowned Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple.
Banaras Hindu University: Entry is free.
Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum: Estimated cost - INR 100 per person, time spent - 2 hours.
Saree workshop: Estimated cost - INR 500 per person, time spent - 1 hour.
Classical music concert at Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple: Entry is free, time spent - 2 hours.
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Great Kebab Factory, a restaurant known for its delicious kebabs and Indian breakfast specialties. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Shree Cafe & Restaurant, offering a wide variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
End your day with a flavorful dinner at The Blue Lassi Shop, a popular spot known for its creamy lassis and mouthwatering snacks. Average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
Monday, December 25: Excursion to Sarnath
Embark on a day trip to Sarnath, a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site. In the morning, explore the Dhamek Stupa, a massive structure that marks the spot where Buddha delivered his first sermon. Visit the Sarnath Museum to see a remarkable collection of artifacts dating back to ancient times. After lunch, explore the beautifully landscaped gardens of the Mulagandha Kuti Vihar. In the evening, witness the captivating Maha Aarti ceremony at the Mulagandha Kuti Vihar.
Dhamek Stupa: Entry fee - INR 30 per person, time spent - 1 hour.
Sarnath Museum: Entry fee - INR 5 per person, time spent - 1.5 hours.
Mulagandha Kuti Vihar: Entry is free, time spent - 1 hour.
Restaurants
For a delicious breakfast, head to Brown Bread Bakery, known for their freshly baked bread and pastries. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, visit The Great Kabab Factory, where you can indulge in an array of flavorful kebabs. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
For a memorable dinner, dine at Bona's Cafe, a rooftop restaurant with stunning views of the city. They serve a variety of international cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Tuesday, December 26: Varanasi Craft Experience
On your final day, explore the traditional crafts of Varanasi. Begin with a visit to the Banaras Silk Weaving Center to witness the intricate process of weaving silk sarees. Afterward, explore the narrow alleyways of the Thatheri Bazaar, known for its brassware. In the afternoon, take a pottery workshop and try your hand at creating clay masterpieces. In the evening, relax with a boat ride during the magical Ganga Aarti ceremony at the Dasaswamedh Ghat.
Banaras Silk Weaving Center: Entry is free, time spent - 1 hour.
Thatheri Bazaar: Estimated cost for shopping - varies, time spent - 2 hours.
Pottery workshop: Estimated cost - INR 500 per person, time spent - 1.5 hours.
Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dasaswamedh Ghat: Entry is free, time spent - 1 hour.
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Madhur Milan Café, known for its mouthwatering Indian breakfast dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For a tasty lunch, head to Keshari Restaurant and savor their authentic Banarasi thali, showcasing a variety of traditional flavors. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Indulge in a delightful dinner at Vishnu Tea Emporium & Restaurant, offering a range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Banaras, make sure to visit the off-the-beaten-path attraction called Manikarnika Ghat. This cremation ground along the sacred Ganges River offers a unique insight into the cycle of life and death. Additionally, don't miss the opportunity to taste the mouthwatering local delicacies at Ram Bhandar, a hidden gem loved by locals and visitors alike. From its famous kachoris to lip-smacking chaats, Ram Bhandar is a culinary delight for the entire family.
For hotel and flight prices in Banaras, you can check here.