Start your day by experiencing the mystical aura of Varanasi at sunrise. Head to the holy Ganges River and take a boat ride to witness the mesmerizing morning Aarti ceremony performed by the priests at the Dashashwamedh Ghat. Afterward, visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu temples, and seek blessings together. In the afternoon, explore the narrow lanes of the old city, known as the "galis," where you can find traditional handicrafts, textiles, and local delicacies. Spend your evening at the Assi Ghat, enjoying the soul-stirring Ganga aarti and a romantic dinner by the riverside.
Ganges River Sunrise Boat Ride: Cost estimate: INR 500, Time spent: 1.5 hours
Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 1 hour
Exploring Old City Galis: Cost estimate: Varies, Time spent: 3 hours
Assi Ghat and Ganga Aarti: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 2 hours
Restaurants
Breakfast: The Blue Lassi Shop - Indulge in a variety of lassi flavors at this popular local spot. A meal here costs about 150 INR per person.
Lunch: Deena Chaat Bhandar - Try delicious and authentic chaat dishes at this local favorite. A meal here costs about 200 INR per person.
Dinner: The Great Kebab Factory - Savor an array of mouthwatering kebabs and Indian delicacies at this renowned restaurant. A meal here costs about 800 INR per person.
Sunday, November 12: Cultural Exploration
Begin your day with a visit to the Sarnath, a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site. Explore the Dhamek Stupa, Mulagandha Kuti Vihar, and other historical attractions to delve into the rich heritage of Buddhism. In the afternoon, take a traditional silk-weaving tour at a local workshop, where you can witness the meticulous process of creating Banarasi silk sarees. Indulge in a romantic evening boat ride on the calm waters of the Ganges River, admiring the beautifully illuminated ghats and the evening aarti ceremonies from a different perspective.
Sarnath: Cost estimate: INR 100, Time spent: 2 hours
Ganges River Boat Ride: Cost estimate: INR 600, Time spent: 2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe Zest, known for its freshly baked pastries and specialty coffee. A meal here will cost you about $10 per person.
For lunch, head to Bhelpuri House and indulge in authentic Indian street food. Their famous bhel puri and pani puri are a must-try, and you can enjoy a satisfying meal for around $8 per person.
For a delightful dinner experience, visit Spice Junction, where you can savor the flavors of traditional Indian cuisine. From aromatic curries to tandoori delicacies, a meal here will cost you approximately $15 per person.
Monday, November 13: Temples and Sankat Mochan
Embark on a spiritual journey by visiting the renowned temples of Varanasi. Begin your day at the iconic Durga Temple, dedicated to Goddess Durga, and soak in the peaceful ambiance. Next, head to the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, known for its divine energy and spiritual significance. Spend the afternoon exploring the Banaras Hindu University, one of the largest residential universities in Asia. In the evening, savor a magical experience with a traditional Ganga Aarti ceremony at the Manikarnika Ghat, accompanied by the enchanting sound of hymns.
Durga Temple: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 1 hour
Banaras Hindu University: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 2 hours
Manikarnika Ghat Ganga Aarti: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 1.5 hours
Restaurants
Start your morning with a delicious breakfast at Choti Walia. This cozy café offers a range of options from local Indian dishes to international favorites. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Bona Fide. This vegetarian restaurant serves authentic North Indian cuisine with a modern twist. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Celebrate a wonderful day with a delightful dinner at The Great Kebab Factory. Indulge in a variety of succulent kebabs and traditional Indian delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a unique experience, consider visiting the Ramnagar Fort and Museum, situated across the Ganges River. This grand architectural marvel houses an extensive collection of vintage cars, royal artifacts, and ancient manuscripts. Another hidden gem is the Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple, located in the heart of the old city. This serene temple complex offers a tranquil ambiance, away from the bustling crowds. Don't forget to indulge in a romantic sunset boat ride on the tranquil waters of the Ganges, where you can witness the ethereal sight of floating diyas (lamps) and feel the romance in the air.
For hotel and flight bookings, you can check prices on KAYAK.