Cultural Immersion in Banaras

Day 1: Northern Exploration

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Morning Boat Ride on River Ganges

Start your day with a serene boat ride on the River Ganges, taking in the sunrise and observing the ancient ghats come to life. You'll witness locals performing morning rituals and see the beautiful architecture along the riverbanks.
INR 200, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Head to the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most sacred temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Take in the spiritual atmosphere and marvel at the intricate architecture.
INR 300 (special entry ticket), 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Banarasi lunch at a local restaurant, savoring authentic dishes like chaat, kachori, and lassi.
INR 500, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Sarnath

After lunch, take a 30-minute drive to Sarnath, the place where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon. Visit the Dhamek Stupa, Mulagandha Kuti Vihar, and the Sarnath Archaeological Museum to delve into the rich history and spirituality of the area.
INR 100 (entry fee for museum), 2 hours

5:00PM

Attend Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat

Experience the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat as dusk falls. The rhythmic chants, the fragrance of incense, and the sight of oil lamps floating on the Ganges create a truly enchanting atmosphere.
Free (donations welcome), 1 hour

Day 2: Southern Immersion

Varanasi, India

9:00AM

Visit Banaras Hindu University (BHU)

Start your day with a visit to Banaras Hindu University, one of the largest residential universities in Asia. Explore the sprawling campus, visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, and admire the grand architecture of the university buildings.
INR 100 (entry to museum), 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore Weaver's Village

Embark on a journey to a nearby weaver's village, where you can witness the artisans creating exquisite Banarasi sarees. Gain insight into the intricate weaving techniques and the cultural significance of these timeless garments.
INR 300 (for purchasing small souvenirs), 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at a Heritage Haveli

Indulge in a sumptuous lunch at a heritage haveli, where you'll be treated to traditional Banarasi cuisine in a charming and culturally rich setting.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit Ramnagar Fort

Explore the historic Ramnagar Fort, located on the eastern bank of the River Ganges. Marvel at the architecture, visit the museum within the fort, and witness the evening aarti ceremony if timing allows.
INR 100 (entry fee), 2 hours

6:00PM

Enjoy Street Food at Godowlia Chowk

Conclude your cultural immersion with a visit to Godowlia Chowk, a bustling hub of local eateries and street food stalls. Sample delectable treats like tamatar chaat, litti chokha, and malaiyyo while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Banaras.
INR 300, 1 hour