Start your trip by experiencing the magical sunrise at the holy Dashashwamedh Ghat. Witness the morning Aarti ceremony, a mesmerizing ritual worship of the river Ganges. In the afternoon, take a boat ride along the river and visit the historic Manikarnika Ghat. In the evening, explore the narrow alleys of the old city, known as Banaras or Kashi.
Dashashwamedh Ghat: Experience the morning Aarti ceremony. Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Boat Ride on the River Ganges: Enjoy a scenic boat ride. Estimated cost: INR 500-800, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Manikarnika Ghat: Visit the famous cremation ghat. Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Exploring Banaras/Kashi: Walk through the narrow alleys and discover the charm of the old city. Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Sunday, January 14: Temples Tour
Start your day by visiting the revered Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Explore the architectural marvel of the Sarnath Temple, where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. In the evening, witness the Ganga Aarti at the Assi Ghat.
Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Seek blessings at this sacred temple. Estimated cost: Free (special paid entry available), Time spent: 1-2 hours
Sarnath Temple: Discover the history and serenity of this Buddhist temple. Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Ganga Aarti at Assi Ghat: Experience the evening prayer ceremony. Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Monday, January 15: Exploring Cultural Heritage
Begin your day by visiting the Banaras Hindu University, known for its beautiful campus and museums. Discover the traditional art of weaving at the Silk Weaving Center. In the evening, enjoy a classical music or dance performance at the Bharat Kala Bhavan.
Banaras Hindu University: Explore the campus, museums, and the Bharat Kala Bhavan. Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 3-4 hours
Silk Weaving Center: Witness the intricate process of silk weaving. Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Bharat Kala Bhavan: Attend a mesmerizing performance of classical music or dance. Estimated cost: Ticket prices vary, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Tuesday, January 16: Varanasi Sweets and Cuisine
Indulge in the diverse culinary delights of Varanasi. Start your day with a visit to the famous Kachori Gali, known for its mouthwatering Kachoris. Try the delectable Banarasi Paan, a unique betel leaf preparation. Taste the local street food at Chowk and relish traditional Banarasi Thali for lunch. In the evening, attend a cooking class to learn how to prepare authentic Varanasi dishes.
Kachori Gali: Savour the delicious Kachoris. Estimated cost: Varies, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Banarasi Paan: Experience the taste of the popular betel leaf preparation. Estimated cost: Varies, Time spent: 30 mins
Chowk: Try the local street food delicacies. Estimated cost: Varies, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Cooking Class: Learn to cook authentic Varanasi dishes. Estimated cost: Varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Wednesday, January 17: Banaras Excursion
Embark on a day trip to nearby attractions. Visit the ancient city of Sarnath, where Buddha preached his first sermon. Explore the Chunar Fort, known for its historical significance and panoramic views. End your day with a visit to Ramnagar Fort, a grand palace with a museum.
Sarnath: Discover the Buddhist heritage. Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 3-4 hours
Chunar Fort: Explore the historic fort and enjoy the beautiful views. Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Ramnagar Fort: Visit the grand palace and museum. Estimated cost: INR 50-100, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Malaiyo Corner: Enjoy a traditional Banarasi breakfast of malaiyo, a sweet and creamy delicacy. Average cost for a meal is about INR 100 per person.
Lotus Cafe: Indulge in a delicious lunch at Lotus Cafe, known for its diverse menu offering both Indian and international cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about INR 500 per person.
Triveni Terrace Cafe: Experience a memorable dinner at Triveni Terrace Cafe, where you can dine on the rooftop with stunning views of the Ganges River. Average cost for a meal is about INR 800 per person.
Thursday, January 18: Shopping and Souvenirs
Discover the vibrant shopping scene of Banaras. Start your day with a visit to the famous Vishwanath Lane, known for its wide range of silk sarees and textiles. Explore the bustling markets of Thateri Bazaar and Golghar to shop for traditional handicrafts, jewellery, and Banarasi silk. End the day with a relaxing boat ride on the Ganges, enjoying the captivating views of the city.
Vishwanath Lane: Shop for exquisite silk sarees and textiles. Estimated cost: Varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Thateri Bazaar and Golghar: Explore the bustling markets for traditional handicrafts and Banarasi silk. Estimated cost: Varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Boat Ride on the Ganges: Enjoy a scenic boat ride. Estimated cost: INR 500-800, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Friday, January 19: Ayurveda and Wellness
Indulge in a day of relaxation and rejuvenation. Visit an Ayurvedic wellness center for a rejuvenating massage or Ayurvedic treatment. Attend a yoga or meditation session to find tranquility amidst the spiritual aura of Banaras. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the peaceful Rajghat, a serene park by the riverbank.
Ayurvedic Wellness Center: Experience the healing therapies and massages. Estimated cost: Varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Yoga or Meditation Session: Find inner peace and spiritual well-being. Estimated cost: Varies, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Rajghat: Enjoy a peaceful stroll in the serene park. Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a unique experience, visit the Ramlila performances during the festival of Navratri, depicting the epic Ramayana. Take a leisurely walk along the River Ganges in the early morning to witness the city awakening. Don't miss the opportunity to taste the mouthwatering banarasi chaat, a popular local street food delicacy.
For finding the best hotel and flight prices for your Banaras trip, you can check here.