4-Day Rail/Train Trip Itinerary for Varanasi

Day 1: Arrival in Varanasi

Varanasi, India

10:00 AM

Check-in at Hotel

Upon arrival, check-in at your hotel and freshen up after your journey.
Cost depends on hotel, 1 hour

12:00 PM

Lunch at Shree Cafe

Head to Shree Cafe for a delicious traditional Indian lunch to kickstart your Varanasi experience.
Approx. £10 per person, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Explore Assi Ghat

Take a leisurely walk along the iconic Assi Ghat, a popular spot for spiritual experiences and stunning sunsets.
Free, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Boat Ride on Ganges

Embark on a boat ride along the River Ganges to witness the mesmerising Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Approx. £5 per person, 1.5 hours

7:30 PM

Dinner at Open Hand Cafe

Enjoy a delightful dinner at Open Hand Cafe, known for its serene ambience and delectable vegetarian dishes.
Approx. £15 per person, 1 hour

Day 2: Varanasi Exploration

Varanasi, India

9:00 AM

Breakfast at Brown Bread Bakery

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Brown Bread Bakery, famous for its freshly baked goods and organic coffee.
Approx. £8 per person, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Explore the sacred Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and admire its stunning architecture and spiritual significance.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe

Indulge in a delightful Italian lunch at Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe, offering a unique blend of Indian and Italian flavours.
Approx. £12 per person, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Explore Old Varanasi

Take a stroll through the bustling streets of Old Varanasi, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and traditional charm.
Free, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Baati Chokha

Savour a traditional North Indian dinner at Baati Chokha, known for its authentic regional cuisine and warm hospitality.
Approx. £18 per person, 1 hour

Day 3: Day Trip to Sarnath

Sarnath, India

9:00 AM

Travel to Sarnath

Take a morning train or hire a taxi to Sarnath, a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site located just outside Varanasi.
Train fare: Approx. £2 per person, 30 minutes

10:00 AM

Explore Sarnath Archaeological Museum

Discover the rich history of Sarnath at the Archaeological Museum, home to an impressive collection of ancient artefacts and sculptures.
Entry fee: Approx. £3 per person, 1.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Sarnath Cafe

Enjoy a relaxed lunch at Sarnath Cafe, offering a peaceful setting and a variety of vegetarian and vegan options.
Approx. £10 per person, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Explore Dhamek Stupa

Visit the iconic Dhamek Stupa, a magnificent structure with historical significance and serene surroundings.
Free, 1 hour

4:00 PM

Return to Varanasi

Head back to Varanasi and spend the evening exploring local markets and savouring traditional street food.
Train fare: Approx. £2 per person, 30 minutes

Day 4: Departure from Varanasi

Varanasi, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Pahalwan's Lassi

Indulge in a delicious breakfast at Pahalwan's Lassi, known for its refreshing lassi and mouthwatering Indian snacks.
Approx. £5 per person, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Visit Banaras Hindu University

Explore the scenic campus of Banaras Hindu University, home to beautiful gardens, iconic landmarks, and a rich academic legacy.
Free, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Pizzeria Vatika

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Pizzeria Vatika, savouring delicious wood-fired pizzas and a serene ambience.
Approx. £12 per person, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Shopping at Godowlia Market

Spend your afternoon exploring the vibrant Godowlia Market, known for its wide range of traditional textiles, jewellery, and handicrafts.
Cost depends on shopping, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Ganga Fuji Home

Conclude your Varanasi journey with a delightful dinner at Ganga Fuji Home, offering a picturesque view of the Ganges and a diverse menu of Indian and international cuisines.
Approx. £20 per person, 1 hour