Spiritual Journey in Varanasi

Day 1: City Centre Exploration

Varanasi, India

8:00 AM

Morning Boat Ride on Ganges River

Start your day with a serene boat ride along the Ganges River, witnessing the spiritual rituals and daily life of locals.
Head to Dashashwamedh Ghat to board a boat. It's a 10-minute walk from most city centre hotels.
INR 200, 1.5 hours

10:00 AM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Explore one of the most famous Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its stunning architecture and spiritual significance.
Walk from Dashashwamedh Ghat to the temple, around a 15-minute walk.
Free entry, donations appreciated, 1 hour

12:00 PM

Lunch at Shree Cafe

Enjoy a vegetarian meal at this local favourite known for its traditional Indian dishes and calming ambiance.
Shree Cafe is a 10-minute walk from Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
INR 500, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Explore Varanasi Old Town

Wander through the narrow lanes of the old town, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and discovering hidden gems.
Walk from Shree Cafe to the old town area, approximately a 20-minute walk.
Free, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Attend Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat

Witness the grand evening prayer ceremony by the Ganges, a mesmerising experience filled with music, fire, and spirituality.
Return to Dashashwamedh Ghat for the aarti ceremony.
Free, donations optional, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Dinner at Open Hand Cafe

Enjoy a peaceful dinner overlooking the river at this rooftop cafe, offering a mix of Indian and international dishes.
A short walk from Dashashwamedh Ghat to Open Hand Cafe.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Temple and Ghat Visit

Varanasi, India

8:30 AM

Breakfast at Blue Lassi Shop

Start your day with a delicious lassi (yogurt-based drink) at this iconic shop known for its wide range of flavours.
Blue Lassi Shop is a short walk from the city centre hotels.
INR 100, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Explore Sarnath

Visit the ancient Buddhist site of Sarnath, where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon, and explore the stupas and museums.
Take a taxi or tuk-tuk to Sarnath, around a 30-minute drive from Varanasi city centre.
INR 300 (entry fees and transport), 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Nirvana Cafe

Relax and enjoy a meal at this peaceful cafe in Sarnath, offering vegetarian and vegan options.
Located near the Sarnath site, a perfect spot for lunch.
INR 400, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Visit Tulsi Manas Temple

Explore this temple dedicated to Lord Rama, known for its beautiful marble structure and religious significance.
Tulsi Manas Temple is a short drive from Sarnath, around 20 minutes away.
Free entry, donations welcome, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Evening Aarti at Assi Ghat

Experience a more serene aarti ceremony at Assi Ghat, away from the crowds, with a tranquil atmosphere by the river.
Take a taxi or tuk-tuk to Assi Ghat from Tulsi Manas Temple, approximately 15 minutes away.
Free, donations appreciated, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Dinner at Baati Chokha

Indulge in a traditional North Indian meal at this popular restaurant, known for its authentic Varanasi cuisine.
From Assi Ghat, Baati Chokha is a short drive or walk away.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Local Culture and Crafts

Varanasi, India

9:00 AM

Visit Weaver's Village

Explore the traditional handloom weaving techniques at a local weaver's village, witnessing the craftsmanship up close.
Take a guided tour or hire a taxi to the weaver's village, located on the outskirts of Varanasi.
INR 500 (guide fee), 2 hours

11:30 AM

Shopping at Vishwanath Lane

Browse through the bustling Vishwanath Lane market, known for its silk sarees, jewellery, and handicrafts.
Return to the city centre and head to Vishwanath Lane, a 20-minute walk from Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Variable, depending on purchases, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe

Enjoy a fusion meal at this cafe offering wood-fired pizzas and Indian favourites, perfect for a mid-day break.
Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe is located in the heart of the market area on Vishwanath Lane.
INR 700, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Visit Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum

Explore the rich collection of artefacts, paintings, and sculptures showcasing the art and culture of Varanasi and India.
A short walk from Vishwanath Lane to Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum.
INR 100 (foreigners), INR 20 (Indians), 2 hours

6:00 PM

Sunset Views from Manikarnika Ghat

Experience the sunset over the Ganges at Manikarnika Ghat, one of the oldest and most sacred cremation ghats in Varanasi.
Walk from the museum to Manikarnika Ghat, a 15-minute walk.
Free, donations optional, 1 hour

7:30 PM

Dinner at Kashi Chat Bhandar

End your Varanasi journey with a flavourful street food experience at this popular chaat spot, savouring local delicacies.
From Manikarnika Ghat, take a short walk or rickshaw ride to Kashi Chat Bhandar.
INR 300, 1 hour
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