Start your journey in Varanasi by immersing yourself in the spiritual aura of the city. In the morning, head to the iconic Dashashwamedh Ghat to experience the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony, a ritual of worship offered to the River Ganges. Afterward, enjoy a boat ride along the Ganges, witnessing the rituals and bathing ghats along the riverbanks. In the afternoon, visit the ancient Banaras Hindu University and explore its sprawling campus. As the evening approaches, take a stroll through the narrow lanes of the Old City, known as Varanasi's heart, and savour the local street food.
Boat Ride on the Ganges: Estimated Cost - INR 200-500, Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour
Banaras Hindu University: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Exploring the Old City: Estimated Cost - Varies based on personal preference, Estimated Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Head to Madras Cafe for a traditional South Indian breakfast experience. Enjoy dosas, idlis, and filter coffee at this charming eatery. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, visit Canton Royale. This restaurant offers a delectable mix of Chinese and Indian cuisine, with dishes like Hakka noodles and butter chicken. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Indulge in a delightful dinner at the famous Bana Lassi, known for its delicious lassis and vegetarian dishes. Don't miss their mouthwatering malai kofta and mango lassi. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
Friday, October 13:
Start your day with a visit to the revered Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most sacred Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Witness the morning rituals and soak in the spiritual ambiance. Afterward, explore the historical marvels of Sarnath, a nearby town where Gautam Buddha delivered his first sermon. Visit the Dhamek Stupa, Mulagandha Kuti Vihar, and the Sarnath Archaeological Museum. In the evening, enjoy a soothing boat ride on the Ganges to witness the enchanting Ganga Aarti at the Dasaswamedh Ghat.
Sarnath: Estimated Cost - INR 100-200 for entrance fees, Estimated Time Spent - 3-4 hours
Boat Ride and Ganga Aarti at Dasaswamedh Ghat: Estimated Cost - INR 200-500, Estimated Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Head to The Breakfast Cafe, a charming eatery near Kashi Vishwanath Temple, to kickstart your day with their delicious and freshly made Indian and continental breakfast options. The average cost for a meal here is about 200 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, dine at Ganga View Restaurant, located on the banks of the Ganges. This restaurant offers a wide range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, including local Varanasi specialties. The average cost for a meal here is about 500 INR per person.
Indulge in a fine dining experience at Baati Chokha, a renowned restaurant serving authentic Bihari cuisine. Located in the heart of Varanasi, this restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and delectable dishes made with traditional recipes. The average cost for a meal here is about 800 INR per person.
Saturday, October 14:
Embark on a spiritual exploration by taking a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges to witness the mystical rituals performed by the pilgrims and priests. Afterward, visit the famous Bharat Kala Bhavan, a museum showcasing a remarkable collection of art, archaeology, and textiles. In the afternoon, wander through the vibrant lanes of the Tulsi Manas Mandir, dedicated to Lord Rama, and visit the nearby Durga Temple. As the evening sets in, enjoy the serene ambiance of the Buddhist site at Sarnath, meditate, and absorb the tranquility.
Sunrise Boat Ride on the Ganges: Estimated Cost - INR 200-500, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
Bharat Kala Bhavan: Estimated Cost - INR 20-50 for entrance fees, Estimated Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Tulsi Manas Mandir and Durga Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Kashi Chat Bhandar, known for its mouthwatering chaats and snacks. Average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Baati Chokha, a popular restaurant serving authentic Bihari cuisine including the famous litti chokha. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Indulge in a delightful dinner at The Great Kabab Factory, offering an array of succulent kebabs and Indian delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Sunday, October 15:
Start your day by visiting the serene and picturesque Ramnagar Fort, situated on the eastern bank of the Ganges. Explore the magnificent architecture and the museum showcasing vintage cars, weaponry, and artifacts. In the afternoon, venture to the nearby Chunar Fort, a historic fort perched on a hilltop with panoramic river views. Return to Varanasi and spend the evening exploring the bustling markets of Godowlia and Vishwanath Lane, filled with a variety of handicrafts, textiles, and local delights.
Ramnagar Fort: Estimated Cost - INR 10-50 for entrance fees, Estimated Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Chunar Fort: Estimated Cost - INR 10-50 for entrance fees, Estimated Time Spent - 3-4 hours
Exploring Godowlia and Vishwanath Lane: Estimated Cost - Varies based on personal preference, Estimated Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Monday, October 16:
On your final day in Varanasi, wake up early to witness the magical sunrise over the Ganges. Take a leisurely morning walk along the ghats and capture the stunning views. Explore the Nepali Hindu Temple with its exquisite woodwork and the beautiful architecture of the Alamgir Mosque nearby. In the afternoon, partake in a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage or indulge in a yoga session to unwind. As the day comes to an end, enjoy a delectable dinner at a rooftop restaurant, overlooking the serene river.
For a unique experience, venture beyond the popular tourist attractions and explore the offbeat locales of Varanasi. Visit the Manikarnika Ghat, a sacred cremation ground that offers an insight into the cycle of life and death. Discover the charm of the Shivala Ghat and enjoy a boat ride to the serene Chunar Beach. Don't miss the opportunity to savor the mouth-watering local street food, such as kachori, chaat, and lassi, from the hidden stalls scattered throughout the city.