Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

6-Day Varanasi Shoestring Budget Itinerary

Viewed by 63 travelers
Friday, December 22: Exploring the Ghats

Morning: Begin your Varanasi adventure by witnessing the sunrise over the holy Ganges River. Take a boat ride along the ghats, immersing yourself in the spiritual atmosphere. Afternoon: Visit the Assi Ghat, where pilgrims take holy dips, and enjoy a stroll along the peaceful lanes of Varanasi's old town. Evening: Attend the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat, where priests perform rituals with fire, bells, and chants.

  • Ghats Boat Ride: Cost: Around INR 200 per person, Time spent: 2 hours
  • Assi Ghat: Free entry, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat: Free to attend, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Saturday, December 23: Varanasi Temples

Morning: Visit the centuries-old Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Afternoon: Explore the beautiful Sarnath, where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. Visit the archaeological museum and the Dhamek Stupa. Evening: Witness the evening aarti ceremony at the Mulagandha Kuti Vihar Monastery.

  • Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Free entry, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Sarnath: Entry fee: INR 5 (Indian), INR 100 (foreigner), Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Mulagandha Kuti Vihar Monastery: Free to attend, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Sunday, December 24: Varanasi Markets and Banaras Hindu University

Morning: Explore the bustling streets of Varanasi and visit the local markets, such as Godowlia Market and Thatheri Bazaar, where you can find traditional handicrafts, textiles, and jewelry. Afternoon: Discover the sprawling campus of Banaras Hindu University, known for its architectural beauty. Visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum and Vishwanath Temple within the university grounds. Evening: Enjoy a sunset boat ride on the Ganges.

  • Varanasi Markets: Cost: Varies based on purchases, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Banaras Hindu University: Free entry, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Sunset Boat Ride: Cost: INR 500-700 per boat, Time spent: 1 hour
Monday, December 25: Varanasi Silk and Music

Morning: Visit the handloom factories in Varanasi, where you can witness the intricate process of silk weaving. Afternoon: Attend a classical music performance at the famous Sankat Mochan Temple, known for its musical heritage. Evening: Take a stroll along the famous Varanasi ghats and try local street food delicacies.

  • Varanasi Handloom Factories: Free to visit, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Sankat Mochan Temple: Free entry, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Street Food: Cost: Varies based on choices, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Tuesday, December 26: Ramnagar Fort and Saptarishi Ashram

Morning: Visit the grand Ramnagar Fort, located on the eastern bank of the Ganges. Explore the intricately designed halls, museums, and vintage collections. Afternoon: Take a boat ride to the Saptarishi Ashram, a peaceful retreat away from the bustling city, and enjoy the serene surroundings. Evening: Experience a cultural show at Ramnagar Fort showcasing the traditional arts and crafts of Varanasi.

  • Ramnagar Fort: Entry fee: INR 20 (Indian), INR 200 (foreigner), Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Saptarishi Ashram: Free entry, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Ramnagar Fort Cultural Show: Cost: INR 100-200, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Wednesday, December 27: Ganges River Bathing and Departure

Morning: Participate in a ritualistic bath in the Ganges River, considered purifying by Hindu traditions. Afternoon: Explore nearby attractions like the Chunar Fort or visit the renowned Bharat Mata Temple. Evening: Depart from Varanasi with mesmerizing memories.

  • Ganges River Bathing: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Chunar Fort/Bharat Mata Temple: Entry fee: Varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While in Varanasi, don't miss out on the hidden gems and local favorites. Take a walk through the narrow lanes of Vishwanath Gali, known for its delightful street food, chaat, and lassi shops. Explore the offbeat Manikarnika Ghat, the main cremation ground of Varanasi, where you can witness the rituals of life and death. Additionally, visit the hidden gem of Nepali Temple, a unique architectural marvel with intricate woodwork and stunning views from the top.

For more information about hotel and flight prices, you can check here.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version