How many days do you need in Varanasi?

This itinerary covers 5 days in Varanasi, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for Varanasi?

Plan your perfect 5 days trip to Varanasi. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

Spiritual Varanasi on a Budget

Viewed by 87 travelers

Day 1: Riverside Rituals

Varanasi, India

6:00AM

Sunrise Boat Ride

Embark on a peaceful boat ride along the Ganges to witness the mesmerizing sunrise and rituals performed on the ghats.

INR 200, 2 hours

9:00AM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Explore the holy Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most sacred Lord Shiva temples. Experience the spiritual ambiance and intricate architecture.

Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Deena Chat Bhandar

Indulge in local street food delights at Deena Chat Bhandar. Try the famous kachori sabzi and lassi.

INR 150, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Assi Ghat

Stroll along the serene Assi Ghat, known for its tranquility and deep spiritual significance. Observe the evening aarti ceremony.

Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Shree Cafe

Enjoy a budget-friendly dinner at Shree Cafe, offering a range of delicious Indian and international dishes with a view of the Ganges.

INR 300, 1.5 hours

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Day 2: Sarnath Exploration

Varanasi, India

9:00AM

Visit Sarnath

Explore the ancient archaeological site of Sarnath, where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon. Visit the Dhamek Stupa and Ashoka Pillar.

INR 50, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Baati Chokha

Enjoy a traditional Bihari Thali at Baati Chokha, known for its authentic flavors and budget-friendly meals.

INR 200, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Ramnagar Fort

Explore the historical Ramnagar Fort, known for its stunning architecture and museum showcasing vintage cars, royal collections, and manuscripts.

INR 100, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Blue Lassi

Savor delectable lassi and budget-friendly snacks at Blue Lassi, a renowned lassi joint offering a variety of flavors.

INR 150, 1 hour

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Day 3: Cultural Immersion

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Explore Banaras Hindu University (BHU)

Take a walk through the sprawling campus of BHU and visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum to witness a rich collection of Indian art and artifacts.

INR 100, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at I:ba Cafe & Restaurant

Relish a hearty lunch with a view at I:ba Cafe & Restaurant, known for its affordable and delectable international and Indian cuisine.

INR 250, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit New Vishwanath Temple (Birla Temple)

Explore the beautiful white marble structure of New Vishwanath Temple, offering a serene atmosphere and intricate carvings depicting various mythological scenes.

Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Phulwari Restaurant

Indulge in a delightful dinner at Phulwari Restaurant, offering budget-friendly North Indian and Chinese cuisine in a vibrant setting.

INR 300, 1.5 hours

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Day 4: Art and Crafts Exploration

Varanasi, India

9:00AM

Visit Weaver's Village

Embark on a cultural exploration at the local weaver's village, witnessing the art of weaving and intricate designs of traditional Banarasi silk sarees.

Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe

Enjoy a budget-friendly yet delightful meal at Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe, known for its wood-fired pizzas and serene ambiance.

INR 300, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Gyanvapi Mosque

Explore the Gyanvapi Mosque, known for its architectural beauty and historical significance. The stunning minarets and intricate designs are worth admiring.

Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Tadka Family Restaurant

Savor traditional Indian flavors at Tadka Family Restaurant, a budget-friendly dining spot offering a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes.

INR 250, 1.5 hours

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Day 5: Final Explorations

Varanasi, India

10:00AM

Visit Bharat Mata Temple

Explore the unique temple dedicated to Mother India, housing a relief map of India carved out of marble. Experience the patriotic spirit and artistry.

Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Rajwadu Bhoj

Enjoy traditional thali and local delicacies at Rajwadu Bhoj, offering an authentic dining experience at budget-friendly prices.

INR 200, 1 hour

3:00PM

Shop at Godowlia Market

Explore the bustling Godowlia Market for budget-friendly shopping, including traditional clothing, artifacts, and souvenirs.

Variable, 2 hours

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Ganga Fuji Restaurant

Indulge in a memorable farewell dinner at Ganga Fuji Restaurant, known for its delectable Indian and Chinese cuisine with a mesmerizing view of the Ganges.

INR 350, 2 hours

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Itinerary created by Plantrip Team December 16, 2023 AI-assisted, human-reviewed

Step 1 Outline Preview:

Spiritual Varanasi on a Budget

Day 1: Riverside Rituals

6:00AM

9:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

7:00PM

Day 2: Sarnath Exploration

9:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

7:00PM

Day 3: Cultural Immersion

8:00AM

1:00PM

4:00PM

7:00PM

Day 4: Art and Crafts Exploration

9:00AM

1:00PM

4:00PM

7:00PM

Day 5: Final Explorations

10:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

7:00PM

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