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7-Day Adventure Itinerary in Varanasi

Friday, December 15: Arrival in Varanasi

Start your adventure in Varanasi by exploring the holy city's ancient Ghats in the morning. Witness the spiritual rituals along the banks of the Ganges River, and take a boat ride to get a panoramic view. In the afternoon, visit the vibrant streets of Varanasi, filled with markets and local shops. As the evening sets in, experience the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat.

  • Ghats of Varanasi: Free, 4 hours
  • Boat Ride on the Ganges River: INR 200 (approx.), 1 hour
  • Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat: Free, 1 hour
Saturday, December 16: Sarnath Excursion

Embark on a morning excursion to Sarnath, a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site. Explore the Dhamek Stupa, where Buddha delivered his first sermon, and visit the Sarnath Archaeological Museum to see ancient artifacts. In the afternoon, visit the Chaukhandi Stupa and explore the ruins of the monasteries. In the evening, attend a meditation session at a nearby monastery.

  • Dhamek Stupa: Free, 2 hours
  • Sarnath Archaeological Museum: INR 10 (approx.), 1 hour
  • Chaukhandi Stupa: Free, 1 hour
  • Meditation Session: Donation-based, 1 hour
Sunday, December 17: Varanasi Heritage Walk

Join a guided heritage walk through the narrow lanes of Varanasi in the morning. Discover hidden temples, ancient buildings, and traditional crafts. In the afternoon, visit the famous Banaras Hindu University and explore its sprawling campus. As the evening approaches, enjoy a sunset boat ride on the Ganges, witnessing the mesmerizing Aarti ceremony at one of the Ghats.

  • Varanasi Heritage Walk: INR 500 (approx.), 3 hours
  • Banaras Hindu University: Free, 2 hours
  • Sunset Boat Ride on the Ganges: INR 300 (approx.), 2 hours
Monday, December 18: Varanasi Food Tour

Indulge in a food tour of Varanasi in the morning, tasting local delicacies like kachori, jalebi, and chaat. Visit popular food stalls and gain insights into the city's culinary traditions. In the afternoon, explore the Ramnagar Fort, a magnificent fort on the eastern bank of the Ganges River. Take a leisurely stroll through its complex and enjoy the scenic views. As the evening sets in, witness a traditional Kathak dance performance.

  • Varanasi Food Tour: INR 1000 (approx.), 3 hours
  • Ramnagar Fort: INR 50 (approx.), 2 hours
  • Kathak Dance Performance: INR 500 (approx.), 2 hours
Tuesday, December 19: Varanasi Silk Shopping

Start your day by exploring the famous silk weaving industry of Varanasi. Visit a silk workshop to witness the intricate craftsmanship and purchase high-quality silk products. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Bharat Kala Bhavan museum to admire its extensive collection of art and artifacts. As the evening approaches, take a walk across the iconic Malviya Bridge, offering stunning views of the city.

  • Silk Workshop: Prices vary, 3 hours
  • Bharat Kala Bhavan: INR 20 (approx.), 2 hours
  • Malviya Bridge: Free, 1 hour
Wednesday, December 20: Varanasi Yoga Retreat

Immerse yourself in the spiritual side of Varanasi by participating in a yoga retreat in the morning. Join a guided yoga session led by experienced instructors, focusing on relaxation and rejuvenation. In the afternoon, visit the Tulsi Manas Temple, known for its exquisite marble carvings depicting Hindu mythology. As the evening sets in, enjoy a serene boat ride on the Ganges, witnessing the illuminated Ghats.

  • Yoga Retreat: INR 800 (approx.), 3 hours
  • Tulsi Manas Temple: Free, 1 hour
  • Illuminated Boat Ride on the Ganges: INR 500 (approx.), 2 hours
Thursday, December 21: Varanasi Jungle Safari

Embark on an adventurous jungle safari in the nearby Chandra Prabha Wildlife Sanctuary. Explore the diverse flora and fauna, and if lucky, spot wildlife like deer, langurs, and various bird species. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the wilderness. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Rajdari and Devdari Waterfalls for a refreshing dip. Return to Varanasi in the evening.

  • Jungle Safari in Chandra Prabha Sanctuary: INR 1500 (approx.), 6 hours
  • Rajdari and Devdari Waterfalls: Free, 3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

To truly experience the adventurous side of Varanasi, venture off the beaten path and explore the following attractions loved by locals:

1. Explore the mystical caves of Kaimoor Wildlife Sanctuary, located on the outskirts of Varanasi.

2. Take a sunrise boat ride to Assi Ghat and witness the magical sight of the sun rising over the Ganges.

3. Indulge in an adrenaline-pumping paragliding experience in the nearby town of Shivdaspur.

4. Visit the ancient ruins of Rajghat Fort, known for its historical significance and breathtaking views.

These hidden gems will surely add an extra dose of adventure to your Varanasi itinerary!

For hotel and flight bookings, check here.

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