Spiritual Journey Through Banaras

Day 1: Arrival and Ganga Aarti

Varanasi, India

4:00PM

Check-in at Hotel

Upon arrival in Varanasi, check in to your hotel and freshen up before heading to the ghats for the mesmerising Ganga Aarti ceremony.
Cost of Accommodation, 1 hour

6:00PM

Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat

Witness the spiritual Ganga Aarti, a captivating Hindu ritual on the banks of the Ganges, as priests perform prayers with fire and incense against the backdrop of the sacred river.
Free, 1 hour

8:00PM

Dinner at Baati Chokha

Enjoy an authentic dinner at Baati Chokha, known for its traditional Bihari cuisine and rustic ambience.
Approx. £10 per person, 1.5 hours

Day 2: Exploring Varanasi - Part 1

Varanasi, India

6:00AM

Sunrise Boat Ride on the Ganges

Embark on a serene boat ride on the Ganges at dawn, witnessing the ghats come to life with the morning rituals and prayers of devotees.
Approx. £5 per person, 2 hours

8:30AM

Breakfast at Shree Cafe

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Shree Cafe, famed for its delicious vegetarian options and lovely rooftop seating overlooking the river.
Approx. £7 per person, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit to Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Explore the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, and witness the spiritual fervour of the devotees.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Open Hand Cafe

Relish a wholesome lunch at Open Hand Cafe, known for its organic and locally-sourced vegetarian dishes in a tranquil setting.
Approx. £8 per person, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore the Ghats and Temples

Take a leisurely stroll along the ghats, exploring the various temples, vibrant markets, and soaking in the spiritual essence of Varanasi.
Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Brown Bread Bakery

Indulge in a delightful dinner at Brown Bread Bakery, offering a diverse menu of international and Indian cuisine with a cosy ambience.
Approx. £12 per person, 1.5 hours

Day 3: Exploring Varanasi - Part 2

Varanasi, India

9:00AM

Sarnath Excursion

Embark on a day trip to Sarnath, an important Buddhist site where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. Explore the ancient ruins, stupas, and visit the Sarnath Museum to delve into the history.
Approx. £15 for transport and entrance fees, 4 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Sarnath Cafe

Enjoy a simple and delicious lunch at Sarnath Cafe, known for its serene setting and vegetarian fare.
Approx. £6 per person, 1 hour

4:00PM

Return to Varanasi

Head back to Varanasi and spend the evening exploring the local markets, picking up souvenirs and experiencing the vibrant atmosphere.
Cost of Transport, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe

Relish a delightful dinner at Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe, known for its wood-fired pizzas and charming garden seating.
Approx. £10 per person, 1.5 hours

Day 4: Sarnath and Cultural Immersion

Varanasi, India

9:00AM

Walking Tour of Varanasi

Embark on a guided walking tour through the winding lanes of Varanasi, immersing yourself in the local culture, visiting traditional workshops, and witnessing the daily life of the city.
Approx. £20 for the tour, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Kachori Gali

Delight in a flavoursome lunch at Kachori Gali, famous for its assortment of kachoris and other local street food delicacies.
Approx. £5 per person, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit to Banaras Hindu University

Explore the sprawling campus of Banaras Hindu University, known for its beautiful architecture, serene gardens, and the Bharat Kala Bhavan museum showcasing a rich collection of Indian art.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Kashi Chat Bhandar

Enjoy a classic dinner experience at Kashi Chat Bhandar, savouring an array of delectable chaats and street food specialities.
Approx. £8 per person, 1.5 hours

Day 5: Leisure Day and Shopping

Varanasi, India

10:00AM

Relaxation and Spa Day

Indulge in a rejuvenating spa session at one of the wellness centres in Varanasi, offering traditional Ayurvedic treatments and massages for a blissful experience.
Approx. £30 per person, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ganga View Cafe

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Ganga View Cafe, savouring the picturesque views of the Ganges while relishing delicious vegetarian meals.
Approx. £10 per person, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Shopping at Godowlia Market

Explore the bustling Godowlia Market, known for its eclectic mix of goods including silk sarees, handicrafts, jewellery, and vibrant fabrics, perfect for souvenir shopping.
Cost of Shopping, 2 hours

7:30PM

Farewell Dinner at Bona Cafe

Enjoy a delightful farewell dinner at Bona Cafe, savouring their delectable international and Indian fusion cuisine in a charming setting.
Approx. £15 per person, 2 hours

Day 6: Departure from Varanasi

Varanasi, India

10:00AM

Check-out from Hotel

Check out from the hotel and proceed to the airport or railway station for your onward journey.
Cost of Accommodation, 1 hour