Sunday, December 31, 2023: Arrival and Ganga Aarti
Start your trip in Varanasi by immersing yourself in the evening Ganga Aarti, a mesmerizing ritual on the banks of the River Ganges. Arrive in the afternoon and check into your budget-friendly hotel near the ghats. In the evening, make your way to Dashashwamedh Ghat to witness the spectacular Aarti ceremony, where priests perform rituals with fire and devotional songs. Spend about 3 hours experiencing the spiritual ambiance.
Budget hotel near the ghats: Estimated cost Rs. 1,000 per night | Time spent: 3 hours
Restaurants
Head to Blue Lassi near the Dashashwamedh Ghat for a delicious traditional Indian breakfast of lassi, a yogurt-based drink, with various flavors to choose from. The average cost for a lassi is about ₹50 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, try Pizzeria Vaatika Café located in the heart of Varanasi. They offer an extensive menu of wood-fired pizzas, pasta, and salads. The average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For dinner, visit Bati Chokha, a popular restaurant known for its authentic Bihari cuisine. Indulge in their specialty, litti chokha, a savory dish made with roasted wheat balls and spiced mashed potatoes. The average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
Monday, January 1, 2024: Sunrise Boat Ride and Sarnath
Start your day early to catch the enchanting sunrise boat ride along the Ganges. Witness the mesmerizing views of the ghats and the sunrise casting a golden glow on the river. Afterward, head to Sarnath, a sacred Buddhist site where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon. Explore the Dhamek Stupa, Mulagandha Kuti Vihar, and the Archaeological Museum. In the evening, return to Varanasi and visit the local markets for souvenir shopping.
Sunrise boat ride: Estimated cost Rs. 200 per person | Time spent: 2 hours
Sarnath: Estimated cost Rs. 300 for entry fees and transportation | Time spent: 4-5 hours
Restaurants
Head to Madhur Milan Cafe for a delicious breakfast of traditional Indian dishes like hot samosas and crispy jalebis. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
Try Baati Chokha for a hearty lunch of Rajasthani cuisine, including baati (baked wheat bread) with dhal and churma (sweet crushed bread). Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
For dinner, indulge in the flavors of South India at Sri Annapurna Vegetarian Restaurant. Enjoy dosas, idlis, and thalis accompanied by fragrant chutneys. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Tuesday, January 2, 2024: Temples of Varanasi
Explore the sacred temples of Varanasi today. Start with the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most revered Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Then, visit the Durga Temple, known for its unique architectural style and vibrant colors. Afterward, proceed to the Tulsi Manas Temple, a beautiful shrine dedicated to Lord Rama.
The Blue Lassi Shop is a popular breakfast spot known for its delicious lassi, a traditional Indian yogurt-based drink. Average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
The Brown Bread Bakery offers a cozy ambiance and serves delicious sandwiches and pastries for lunch. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
The Lotus Lounge is a rooftop restaurant with stunning views of the Ganges River, serving a variety of Indian and Continental dishes for dinner. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Wednesday, January 3, 2024: Varanasi Heritage Walk and Banaras Hindu University
Embark on a heritage walk through the narrow lanes of Varanasi. Explore the charming streets, ancient buildings, and traditional markets. Witness the local way of life and soak in the rich culture. After the walk, visit Banaras Hindu University, one of the oldest and largest residential universities in Asia. Explore the campus, visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, and enjoy a peaceful stroll in the lush gardens.
Varanasi Heritage Walk: Free | Time spent: 2-3 hours
Banaras Hindu University: Free entry | Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Moti Mahal Delux, located near Varanasi Heritage Walk, offers a wide range of delicious breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe, a cozy restaurant near Banaras Hindu University, serves delectable pizzas and other Italian dishes for lunch. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Daawat-e-Khaas, situated close to Varanasi Heritage Walk, is a popular dinner spot known for its flavorful Indian cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Thursday, January 4, 2024: Assi Ghat and Varanasi Street Food
Start your day at Assi Ghat, one of the most popular ghats in Varanasi. Witness aarti ceremonies, take a boat ride, and enjoy the serene atmosphere. Afterward, embark on a culinary adventure and indulge in the famous street food of Varanasi. Try local specialties like kachori, chaat, and lassi. In the evening, relax by the ghat and witness the beautiful Ganga Aarti.
Assi Ghat: Free | Time spent: 2-3 hours
Street food: Estimated cost Rs. 200-300 per person | Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Head to Ram Bhandar for a delicious breakfast of crispy and fluffy kachori served with spicy aloo subzi. The average cost for a meal at Ram Bhandar is about 50 INR per person.
For lunch, try the famous Deena Chaat Bhandar for a variety of mouthwatering chaat options like papdi chaat, pani puri, and dahi vada. The average cost for a meal at Deena Chaat Bhandar is about 100 INR per person.
End your day with a dinner at Ksheer Sagar, known for its delectable vegetarian thali. Enjoy a wholesome meal of various curries, rice, bread, and desserts. The average cost for a meal at Ksheer Sagar is about 200 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For off the beaten path attractions, explore the peaceful Ramnagar Fort, located on the eastern bank of the Ganges. Visit the Bharat Mata Mandir, a unique temple dedicated to Mother India that showcases a giant relief map of the country. Don't miss the opportunity to try the famous Banarasi paan, a betel leaf delicacy with various mouth-watering fillings. These hidden gems and local favorites are sure to enrich your Varanasi experience without breaking the bank.