Cultural Rail Trip: Ayodhya, Varanasi, Prayagraj

Day 1: Historical Ayodhya

Ayodhya, India

8:00AM

Visit Ram Janmabhoomi

Begin your day by exploring the sacred site where Lord Rama was believed to be born, immersing yourself in the rich history and spirituality of Ayodhya.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Hanuman Garhi

Head to Hanuman Garhi, a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, offering panoramic views of the city from its hilltop location.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Shri Ram Hotel

Enjoy a traditional North Indian meal at Shri Ram Hotel, savoring local flavors and hospitality.
$10, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Kanak Bhawan

Explore Kanak Bhawan, a temple dedicated to Lord Rama and Goddess Sita, adorned with intricate artwork and vibrant decorations.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Stroll by Sarayu River

End your day with a leisurely walk along the banks of the Sarayu River, soaking in the peaceful ambiance and scenic beauty of Ayodhya.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Sita Rasoi

Indulge in a delicious dinner at Sita Rasoi, known for its traditional Indian dishes and warm hospitality.
$15, 1.5 hours

Day 2: Spiritual Varanasi - Day 1

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Morning Ganga Aarti at Assi Ghat

Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at Assi Ghat, where devotees offer prayers to the sacred river during sunrise.
Free, 1 hour

10:00AM

Boat Ride on River Ganges

Embark on a serene boat ride along the River Ganges, observing the ghats and ancient temples lining the waterfront.
$20, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Open Hand Cafe

Enjoy a healthy and delicious meal at Open Hand Cafe, known for its organic and vegan-friendly menu options.
$15, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Sarnath

Visit Sarnath, a significant Buddhist site where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon, and explore the ancient ruins and stupas.
$5, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Baati Chokha

Savor the flavors of traditional Bihari cuisine at Baati Chokha, known for its authentic dishes and rustic ambiance.
$12, 1.5 hours

Day 3: Spiritual Varanasi - Day 2

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Begin your day with a visit to the revered Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and experience the spiritual energy of the temple complex.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Banaras Hindu University

Discover the sprawling campus of Banaras Hindu University, home to beautiful temples, museums, and the iconic Bharat Kala Bhavan.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe

Enjoy a fusion meal at Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe, offering a mix of Italian and Indian flavors in a relaxed setting.
$10, 1 hour

3:00PM

Shop at Vishwanath Gali

Explore the bustling lanes of Vishwanath Gali, known for its vibrant markets selling traditional Banarasi silk sarees, jewelry, and handicrafts.
Varies, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Brown Bread Bakery

Relish a cozy dinner at Brown Bread Bakery, famous for its freshly baked goods, hearty meals, and relaxed ambiance.
$15, 1.5 hours

Day 4: Historical Prayagraj - Day 1

Prayagraj, India

8:00AM

Visit Triveni Sangam

Start your day at the sacred confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers at Triveni Sangam, where a holy dip is believed to cleanse sins.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Anand Bhavan

Discover the historic Anand Bhavan, once home to the Nehru-Gandhi family, now converted into a museum showcasing India's independence movement.
$5, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at El Chico Restaurant

Enjoy a delightful meal at El Chico Restaurant, offering a mix of Indian and Chinese cuisine with a riverside view.
$12, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Allahabad Fort

Explore the grandeur of Allahabad Fort, a Mughal-era fort overlooking the confluence of rivers, offering insights into India's architectural heritage.
$3, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Evening Aarti at Alopi Devi Temple

Attend the serene evening aarti at Alopi Devi Temple, dedicated to Goddess Alopi, and witness the spiritual rituals amidst a tranquil atmosphere.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Eat On Restaurant

Enjoy a scrumptious dinner at Eat On Restaurant, known for its diverse menu and flavorsome dishes catering to varied tastes.
$10, 1.5 hours

Day 5: Historical Prayagraj - Day 2

Prayagraj, India

9:00AM

Visit Khusro Bagh

Explore the serene garden complex of Khusro Bagh, housing Mughal-era mausoleums and lush greenery, offering a peaceful retreat.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore All Saints Cathedral

Discover the architectural beauty of All Saints Cathedral, an Anglican church known for its Gothic-style design and tranquil ambiance.
$2, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Swagat Restaurant

Indulge in a delicious meal at Swagat Restaurant, offering a variety of North Indian dishes and refreshing beverages.
$10, 1 hour

3:00PM

Shop at Civil Lines Market

Explore the bustling market of Civil Lines, known for its local handicrafts, clothing, and souvenirs, perfect for picking up mementos.
Varies, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at El Chico Restaurant

Enjoy another delightful meal at El Chico Restaurant, savoring their signature dishes and riverside ambiance.
$15, 1.5 hours

Day 6: Culinary Exploration in Prayagraj

Prayagraj, India

8:00AM

Cooking Class at Ganga View Homestay

Embark on a culinary journey with a cooking class at Ganga View Homestay, learning to prepare traditional Indian dishes with fresh local ingredients.
$30, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch with Local Family

Experience authentic Indian hospitality with a traditional lunch hosted by a local family, savoring homemade delicacies and engaging in cultural exchange.
$20, 2 hours

3:00PM

Visit Yamuna Ghats

Explore the serene Yamuna Ghats, witnessing daily rituals, spiritual practices, and enjoying the tranquil riverside ambiance.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Tea Tasting at Cha Bar

Indulge in a tea tasting experience at Cha Bar, sampling a variety of aromatic teas and learning about the tea culture in India.
$10, 1 hour

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Bharti Restaurant

Conclude your culinary exploration with a farewell dinner at Bharti Restaurant, enjoying a feast of traditional Indian flavors and cultural delights.
$25, 2 hours