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

Relaxation in Banaras

Wednesday November 15: Arrival in Banaras

Welcome to Banaras! Start your trip by checking in to your hotel and getting settled. In the morning, take a leisurely walk along the serene banks of the holy Ganges River. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and witness the morning rituals performed by devotees. In the afternoon, visit Sarnath, an important Buddhist pilgrimage site located nearby. Explore the ancient ruins and visit the Dhamek Stupa. As the evening approaches, take a boat ride on the Ganges to witness the spectacular Ganga Aarti ceremony, a mesmerizing ritual of worship.

  • Hotel check-in: Check prices here
  • Morning walk along the Ganges: Free, 2 hours
  • Sarnath visit: ₹500 ($7) for entry, 3 hours
  • Ganga Aarti boat ride: ₹200 ($3), 1 hour
Thursday November 16: Temples and Ghats

Begin your day by visiting the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most sacred temples for Hindus. Afterward, explore the narrow lanes of the old city and discover other significant temples such as the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple and the Durga Temple. In the afternoon, take a boat ride along the ghats (steps leading to the river) and marvel at the architectural beauty of the ghats. Enjoy a peaceful evening strolling along the Dashashwamedh Ghat and experiencing the evening aarti ceremony.

  • Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Free, 2 hours
  • Exploring the old city: Free, 3 hours
  • Ghat boat ride: ₹300 ($4), 2 hours
Friday November 17: Yoga and Meditation

Start your day with a rejuvenating yoga session at one of the many yoga centers in Banaras. Immerse yourself in the practice of asanas and pranayama to experience ultimate relaxation. Afterward, visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan, an art and archaeological museum, to explore the vast collection of ancient art and artifacts. In the evening, indulge in a peaceful meditation session at the tranquil Tibetan Temple.

  • Yoga session: ₹500 ($7), 2 hours
  • Bharat Kala Bhavan: ₹100 ($1.5) for entry, 2 hours
  • Tibetan Temple meditation: Free, 1 hour
Saturday November 18: Wellness and Ayurveda

On this day, focus on your well-being and rejuvenation. Start your morning with a relaxing Ayurvedic massage at one of the renowned wellness centers in Banaras. Experience the healing touch of traditional Ayurvedic therapies. In the afternoon, learn about Ayurveda at the Ayurveda Research Institute and explore their medicinal plant garden. In the evening, attend a yoga and spiritual discourse session to gain insight into the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda.

  • Ayurvedic massage: ₹1500 ($20), 2 hours
  • Ayurveda Research Institute: ₹200 ($3) for entry, 2 hours
  • Yoga and spiritual discourse session: Free, 2 hours
Sunday November 19: Varanasi Food Trail

Today, embark on a gastronomic adventure through the streets of Banaras. Start your morning with a flavorsome breakfast of kachori and jalebi at Kachori Gali. Explore the local street food scene, sampling Banarasi chaat, lassi, and various sweet delicacies. In the afternoon, visit the famous Ram Bhandar for their famous kachori-sabzi and try the mouth-watering thandai at the Thandai Gali. In the evening, indulge in a traditional Banarasi thali at one of the local restaurants.

  • Street food tasting: ₹500 ($7), 3 hours
  • Lunch at Ram Bhandar: ₹200-300 ($3-4), 1 hour
  • Thandai and sweets: ₹100 ($1.5), 1 hour
  • Traditional Banarasi thali: ₹500 ($7), 1 hour
Monday November 20: Excursion to Chunar Fort

On your last day in Banaras, take a day trip to the historic Chunar Fort, located about 40 kilometers from the city. Explore the ancient fortifications, visit the Chunar Mela Ground, and admire the panoramic views of the Ganges from the fort. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature before heading back to Banaras. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along the serene Assi Ghat and witness the magical Ganga Aarti ceremony.

  • Chunar Fort excursion: ₹1000 ($14) for transportation, 5 hours
  • Picnic lunch: ₹300 ($4), 1 hour
  • Assi Ghat visit: Free, 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a relaxing experience off the beaten path, head to Kautilya Tirth, a serene garden near Banaras Hindu University. This hidden gem is the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy some quiet time amidst nature. Another local favorite is the stunning Ramnagar Fort, located on the opposite bank of the Ganges. Explore the magnificent architecture, museum, and vintage cars on display. These lesser-known attractions offer tranquility and a deeper insight into Banaras's rich history and culture.

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