Spiritual Exploration in Varanasi

Day 1: Riverside Beginnings

Varanasi, India on December 26, 2023

7:00AM

Sunrise Boat Ride

Embark on a serene sunrise boat ride along the Ganges River to witness the morning rituals and the sun casting a golden glow over the ghats.
INR 500, 2 hours

9:00AM

Visit to Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Delve into the spiritual essence of Varanasi with a visit to the renowned Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
INR 100 (optional guided tour), 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Shiva Cafe

Relish a traditional Indian thali or savour some flavourful chaat at Shiva Cafe, overlooking the bustling streets of Varanasi.
INR 400, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Banaras Hindu University

Uncover the rich history and architecture of Banaras Hindu University, with its vast campus and the historic Bharat Kala Bhavan museum.
Free entry, 2 hours

7:00PM

Evening Aarti Ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat

Experience the mesmerising evening Aarti ceremony by the Ganges, as priests perform worship with fire, incense, and bells, creating a deeply spiritual atmosphere.
Free, optional donations, 1.5 hours

8:30PM

Dinner at Open Hand Cafe

Unwind with a delightful dinner at Open Hand Cafe, offering a mix of international and Indian cuisine amidst a cosy ambience.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Immersion

Varanasi, India on December 27, 2023

6:00AM

Morning Meditation at Assi Ghat

Begin the day with a tranquil meditation session at Assi Ghat, surrounded by the gentle lapping of the Ganges River and the soul-stirring chants of devotees.
Free, 1 hour

8:30AM

Breakfast at Brown Bread Bakery

Indulge in a hearty breakfast at Brown Bread Bakery, known for its delectable pancakes, fresh juices, and organic offerings.
INR 300, 1 hour

10:00AM

Walk through Varanasi's Old City

Embark on a guided walking tour through the labyrinthine lanes and vibrant markets of Varanasi's Old City, absorbing the sights, sounds, and aromas of daily life.
INR 800 (guided tour), 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe

Enjoy a delightful Italian lunch at Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe, offering wood-fired pizzas and a tranquil garden setting.
INR 500, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit to Sarnath

Explore the ancient Buddhist site of Sarnath, where Lord Buddha preached his first sermon, and visit the renowned Dhamek Stupa and Mulagandha Kuti Vihara.
INR 300 (entry fee and transportation), 3 hours

7:00PM

Traditional Dinner at Baati Chokha

Dine at Baati Chokha for an authentic taste of regional cuisine, featuring the traditional dish of baati chokha paired with local sweets like lai and peda.
INR 700, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Artisanal Exploration

Varanasi, India on December 28, 2023

9:00AM

Visit to Weaving Centre

Discover the intricate art of Banarasi silk weaving at a renowned weaving centre, witnessing skilled artisans creating exquisite textiles.
Free entry, optional purchases, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Dolphin Restaurant

Savour a delectable lunch at Dolphin Restaurant, offering a wide range of Indian and international dishes, along with stunning views of the Ganges.
INR 600, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Craft Bazaar

Stroll through the bustling Craft Bazaar, where local artisans showcase their traditional crafts such as wooden toys, brassware, and intricate jewellery.
Depends on purchases, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Tea Tasting at Tulsi Chaiwala

Indulge in a flavoursome tea-tasting experience at Tulsi Chaiwala, sampling a variety of aromatic teas and engaging in lively conversations with locals.
INR 200, 1 hour

7:00PM

Rooftop Dinner at Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe

Dine under the stars with a delightful dinner at Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe, relishing wood-fired pizzas and a cosy ambience with panoramic views of Varanasi.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Rejuvenating Retreat

Varanasi, India on December 29, 2023

8:00AM

Yoga and Wellness at Yoga Vidya Mandiram

Participate in a rejuvenating yoga and meditation session at Yoga Vidya Mandiram, embracing the tranquil surroundings and expert guidance for holistic well-being.
INR 700, 2 hours

10:00AM

Brunch at Brown Bread Bakery

Relish a wholesome brunch at Brown Bread Bakery, offering a variety of healthy and scrumptious dishes, from buddha bowls to freshly baked treats.
INR 500, 1 hour

12:00PM

Relaxing Massage at AyurVAID Kashi

Indulge in a rejuvenating massage at AyurVAID Kashi, with skilled therapists employing ancient Ayurvedic techniques to revitalise the body and mind.
INR 1500, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Exploration of Ramnagar Fort

Venture to the historic Ramnagar Fort, an architectural marvel from the 18th century, housing antique weapons, vintage cars, and a museum showcasing royal artefacts.
INR 300 (entry fee), 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Bona Cafe

Conclude the day with a delightful dinner at Bona Cafe, savouring a fusion of international and Indian cuisine in a charming ambience.
INR 700, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Farewell to Varanasi

Varanasi, India on December 30, 2023

9:00AM

Cooking Class at Sankat Mochan Foundation

Participate in a cooking class at Sankat Mochan Foundation, learning to prepare traditional Indian dishes and gaining insights into the local culinary culture.
INR 1000, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Banaaras Cafe

Enjoy a delicious lunch at Banaaras Cafe, savouring an array of vegetarian and vegan delights crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
INR 600, 1 hour

3:00PM

Shopping at Godowlia Market

Immerse yourself in a lively shopping experience at Godowlia Market, where you can find an array of textiles, jewellery, handicrafts, and vibrant souvenirs.
Depends on purchases, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe

Indulge in a farewell dinner at Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe, reminiscing about the memorable experiences in Varanasi over delectable wood-fired pizzas and mocktails.
INR 700, 1.5 hours
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