Spiritual and Cultural Exploration in Varanasi

Day 1: Arrival in Varanasi

Varanasi, India

Afternoon

Check-in at Hotel

Upon arrival in Varanasi, check in to your hotel and freshen up after your journey.
Cost depends on hotel choice, 1 hour

Evening

Ghats Experience

In the evening, head to the ghats along the Ganges River. Take a boat ride to witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony, a spiritual ritual with fire, music, and chanting.
Boat ride: around INR 200-300 per person, 2 hours

Dinner time

Dinner at Open Hand Cafe

Enjoy a delightful dinner at Open Hand Cafe, known for its serene rooftop setting and delectable vegetarian dishes.
Approx. INR 800 per person, 1.5 hours

Day 2: Varanasi Exploration

Varanasi, India

Morning

Sunrise Boat Ride

Start the day with a serene sunrise boat ride along the Ganges to observe the city come to life and witness the morning rituals by the ghats.
Boat ride: around INR 400-600 per person, 2 hours

Breakfast time

Breakfast at Brown Bread Bakery

Head to Brown Bread Bakery for a hearty breakfast with a variety of freshly baked bread, omelets, and organic coffee.
Approx. INR 500 per person, 1 hour

Midday

Exploration of Old City

Explore the narrow lanes and bustling markets of the Old City. Visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and experience the vibrant local life.
Entry to temple: Free, shopping and food costs vary, 3 hours

Lunch time

Lunch at Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe

Relish a delicious wood-fired pizza or a wholesome salad at Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe, known for its relaxed ambiance and flavorsome food.
Approx. INR 700 per person, 1.5 hours

Afternoon

Banaras Hindu University (BHU) Visit

Spend the afternoon visiting the renowned Banaras Hindu University. Explore the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum and the sprawling campus.
Entry to museum: around INR 100 per person, 2 hours

Evening

Shopping at Godowlia Market

Head to Godowlia Market for some souvenir shopping and to immerse yourself in the local shopping experience.
Cost varies based on shopping preferences, 2 hours

Dinner time

Dinner at Shree Cafe

Indulge in a delightful dinner at Shree Cafe, offering a mix of Indian and international cuisines in a cozy setting.
Approx. INR 900 per person, 1.5 hours

Day 3: Sarnath Day Trip

Sarnath, India

Morning

Travel to Sarnath

Embark on a day trip to Sarnath, an important Buddhist pilgrimage site. Explore the Dhamek Stupa, Mulagandha Kuti Vihar, and the Sarnath Archaeological Museum.
Taxi to Sarnath: around INR 1000-1500 for a round trip, 1 hour

Midday

Lunch at Sarnath Cafe

Enjoy a simple and delicious lunch at Sarnath Cafe, offering a peaceful setting and vegetarian Indian cuisine.
Approx. INR 600 per person, 1 hour

Afternoon

Exploration of Sarnath Ruins

Spend the afternoon exploring the ancient ruins and meditating in the tranquil surroundings of Sarnath.
Entry to ruins: around INR 100 per person, 2 hours

Evening

Return to Varanasi

Head back to Varanasi and relax at your hotel after a day of spiritual and historical exploration.
Taxi back to Varanasi: around INR 1000-1500 for a round trip, 1 hour

Dinner time

Dinner at Ksheer Sagar

Delight in a sumptuous dinner at Ksheer Sagar, known for its delectable Indian and Mughlai cuisine, providing a perfect end to the day.
Approx. INR 1000 per person, 1.5 hours