6-Day Budget Itinerary: Varanasi & Lucknow

Day 1: Thursday, November 23, 2023 - Arrival in Varanasi

Morning: Arrive in Varanasi and check into your hotel. Spend the morning exploring the city's narrow lanes and vibrant street markets. Head to the Ghats of Varanasi on the banks of the Ganges River to witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony in the evening.

• Ghats of Varanasi: Free, 2-3 hours
• Ganga Aarti Ceremony: Free, 1 hour

Day 2: Friday, November 24, 2023 - Varanasi Cultural Immersion

Morning: Start your day with a boat ride along the Ganges River, experiencing the spiritual essence of Varanasi. Visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple and explore the narrow alleys of the famous Manikarnika Ghat.

Afternoon: Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Varanasi by visiting the Banaras Hindu University (BHU) and the renowned Sarnath Archaeological Site.

• Boat Ride on Ganges: INR 200-300, 2-3 hours
• Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Free (donations welcome), 1-2 hours
• Manikarnika Ghat: Free, 1-2 hours
• Banaras Hindu University: Free, 2-3 hours
• Sarnath Archaeological Site: INR 100-200, 2-3 hours

Day 3: Saturday, November 25, 2023 - Varanasi Exploration

Morning: Visit the famous Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, housing a remarkable collection of Indian art and artifacts. Explore the Ramnagar Fort, a historical fortification on the eastern bank of the Ganges.

Afternoon: Take a rickshaw ride through the bustling streets of Varanasi and visit the Durga Temple, known for its stunning architecture.

• Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum: INR 10-20, 1-2 hours
• Ramnagar Fort: INR 15-30, 1-2 hours
• Durga Temple: Free, 1-2 hours

Day 4: Sunday, November 26, 2023 - Travel to Lucknow

Morning: Check out of your Varanasi hotel and travel to Lucknow, either by train or bus. After arriving in Lucknow, check into your hotel and freshen up.

Afternoon: Explore the historical sites of Lucknow, starting with Bara Imambara, a grand architectural marvel. Unwind at the picturesque Ambedkar Memorial Park.

• Travel to Lucknow: Cost varies depending on mode of transportation, time varies
• Bara Imambara: INR 50-100, 2-3 hours
• Ambedkar Memorial Park: Free, 1-2 hours

Day 5: Monday, November 27, 2023 - Lucknow Heritage Tour

Morning: Discover the rich history of Lucknow by visiting the Lucknow Residency, a British-era complex, and the fascinating Rumi Darwaza.

Afternoon: Immerse yourself in the intricate beauty of the Bhool Bhulaiya, a labyrinth within Bara Imambara. Enjoy shopping for traditional crafts and textiles at Hazratganj, Lucknow's popular shopping district.

• Lucknow Residency: INR 10-25, 2-3 hours
• Rumi Darwaza: Free, 1-2 hours
• Bhool Bhulaiya: INR 25-50, 1-2 hours
• Hazratganj: Cost varies based on shopping, 2-3 hours

Day 6: Tuesday, November 28, 2023 - Farewell

Morning: Spend your final morning in Lucknow by exploring the charming Bada and Chhota Imambara, showcasing exquisite Mughal architecture. Don't miss the famous Tunday Kababi for a delicious Awadhi culinary experience.

Afternoon: Check out of your hotel and depart from Lucknow. Safe travels!

• Bada Imambara: INR 25-50, 2-3 hours
• Chhota Imambara: INR 25-50, 1-2 hours
• Tunday Kababi: Cost varies, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

Explore the offbeat attractions of Varanasi and Lucknow to gain a deeper understanding of these cities. In Varanasi, visit the Nepali Temple, known for its unique pagoda-style architecture, and the Bharat Mata Temple, dedicated to Mother India.

In Lucknow, discover the exquisite Chota Imambara's illuminated beauty during the evening or indulge in the Awadhi cuisine at the iconic Royal Cafe. Don't forget to explore the vibrant street food scene in Lucknow, especially in areas like Chowk and Aminabad.

Check hotel and flight prices on KAYAK.