Varanasi Cultural Immersion Itinerary

Day 1: Riverside Exploration

Varanasi, India on March 6, 2024

8:00AM

Morning Boat Ride on Ganges River

Start your day with a serene boat ride along the Ganges River, witnessing the morning rituals and spiritual practices of the locals.
Head to Dashashwamedh Ghat and hire a boat. It's a 10-minute walk from most accommodations.
INR 200, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Explore one of the most famous Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, experiencing the vibrant atmosphere and architectural beauty.
Walk to the temple from the ghat, which takes around 15 minutes.
Free entry, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Deena Chat Bhandar

Indulge in delicious street food at this local favorite spot known for its chaats and snacks.
Take an auto-rickshaw to Deena Chat Bhandar from the temple (approx. 10 minutes).
INR 150, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Banaras Hindu University (BHU)

Stroll through the university campus, visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, and soak in the educational and cultural essence.
Take a cycle rickshaw or walk to BHU from the restaurant (around 20 minutes).
Free entry, 2 hours

5:00PM

Evening Aarti at Assi Ghat

Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at Assi Ghat, a spiritual experience not to be missed.
Take a cycle rickshaw or walk to Assi Ghat from BHU (approximately 15 minutes).
Free to watch, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Baati Chokha

Enjoy a traditional North Indian meal at Baati Chokha, known for its authentic flavors and warm ambiance.
Take an auto-rickshaw to Baati Chokha from Assi Ghat (around 15 minutes).
INR 300, 1 hour
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Day 2: Cultural Heritage Day

Varanasi, India on March 7, 2024

9:00AM

Sarnath Excursion

Embark on a trip to Sarnath, an important Buddhist site where Lord Buddha preached his first sermon.
Take a taxi or hire a guide for a day trip to Sarnath (around 30 minutes' drive from Varanasi).
INR 500 (including transportation), 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe

Relish wood-fired pizzas and other international cuisines at this cozy cafe near Varanasi.
Return to Varanasi and have lunch at Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe, located in the city center.
INR 400, 1 hour

3:00PM

Silk Weaving Demonstration at Weaver's Village

Witness the intricate art of silk weaving by local artisans at a village near Varanasi, known for its exquisite Banarasi silk.
Take a taxi to the Weaver's Village (approximately 40 minutes' drive from the city).
INR 100 (donation to weavers), 2 hours

6:00PM

Shopping at Godowlia Market

Explore the bustling market of Godowlia for souvenirs, traditional clothing, and local handicrafts.
Return to Varanasi and take a cycle rickshaw to Godowlia Market (around 15 minutes).
Variable, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Shree Cafe

Enjoy a mix of Indian and international dishes at Shree Cafe, a popular eatery with a laid-back vibe.
Take a walk or cycle rickshaw to Shree Cafe from Godowlia Market (approximately 10 minutes).
INR 250, 1 hour
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Day 3: Spiritual Journey

Varanasi, India on March 8, 2024

7:00AM

Sunrise Yoga at Rajghat

Participate in a rejuvenating yoga session by the Ganges as the sun rises, embracing the spiritual energy of Varanasi.
Take a cycle rickshaw or walk to Rajghat (around 15 minutes from the city center).
Free, 1 hour

9:00AM

Breakfast at Open Hand Cafe

Enjoy a healthy breakfast at Open Hand Cafe, known for its organic and vegetarian menu.
Take a walk to Open Hand Cafe from Rajghat (approximately 10 minutes).
INR 200, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple

Explore the famous temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, known for its spiritual significance and peaceful ambiance.
Walk to the temple from the cafe (around 5 minutes).
Free entry, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Kachori Gali

Taste the local specialty of kachoris and other street food delights at this bustling food street.
Walk to Kachori Gali from the temple (approximately 10 minutes).
INR 100, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Tulsi Manas Temple

Explore the temple known for its walls inscribed with verses from the Ramcharitmanas, an epic poem about Lord Rama.
Take an auto-rickshaw or walk to Tulsi Manas Temple from Kachori Gali (around 15 minutes).
Free entry, 1 hour

4:00PM

Explore Chowk Market

Shop for traditional Banarasi silk sarees, jewelry, and handicrafts at the vibrant Chowk Market.
Take a walk or cycle rickshaw to Chowk Market from the temple (approximately 10 minutes).
Variable, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Kashi Chat Bhandar

Savor different varieties of chaat and local snacks at Kashi Chat Bhandar, a popular street food joint.
Walk to Kashi Chat Bhandar from Chowk Market (around 5 minutes).
INR 150, 1 hour
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