7-Day Varanasi City Experiences Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Varanasi

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Morning Boat Ride on Ganges River

Start your day with a serene boat ride along the Ganges River to witness the morning rituals and activities along the ghats.
The boat ride can be accessed from Dashashwamedh Ghat. It takes about 1 hour.
INR 200, 2 hours

10:30AM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Explore one of the most famous Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its stunning architecture and religious significance.
The temple is located near the river. You can walk there from the ghats. It takes around 15 minutes.
Free entry, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Brown Bread Bakery

Enjoy a delicious vegetarian meal at this popular cafe known for its fresh bread and organic ingredients.
The cafe is located in the city center. You can take a rickshaw or walk there. It takes about 20 minutes.
INR 500, 1 hour

3:00PM

Sarnath Excursion

Head to Sarnath, an important Buddhist site where Buddha gave his first sermon. Explore the ruins and visit the Dhamek Stupa.
You can hire a taxi or take a local bus to Sarnath. It's about 30 minutes away from Varanasi.
INR 300 (round trip), 3 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Immersion in Varanasi

Varanasi, India

9:00AM

Morning Yoga Session

Start your day with a rejuvenating yoga session by the Ganges River, surrounded by the peaceful vibes of Varanasi.
You can join a yoga class at Assi Ghat. It takes about 10 minutes to walk there.
INR 300, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Varanasi Old City

Stroll through the narrow lanes of Varanasi's old city, witnessing the vibrant street life, ancient temples, and bustling markets.
You can explore on foot starting from Dashashwamedh Ghat. Allow yourself at least 2 hours for this exploration.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Shree Cafe

Indulge in traditional Indian cuisine at this local favorite cafe, known for its authentic flavors and rooftop dining experience.
Shree Cafe is located in the old city. You can walk there from the market area. It takes about 15 minutes.
INR 400, 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit Banaras Hindu University

Explore the campus of one of the largest residential universities in Asia, known for its beautiful architecture and academic heritage.
You can hire a rickshaw from the old city to reach the university. It's approximately 20 minutes away.
Free entry, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Exploring Sarnath

Sarnath, India

9:00AM

Visit Chaukhandi Stupa

Begin your day by exploring the Chaukhandi Stupa, a historic Buddhist monument marking Buddha's first visit to Sarnath.
The stupa is within walking distance from the main entrance of Sarnath. It takes around 10 minutes.
INR 50, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Sarnath Archaeological Museum

Discover a rich collection of Buddhist artifacts and sculptures at this museum, offering insights into the region's ancient history.
The museum is located near the stupa. It's a short walk from there, taking about 5 minutes.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Sarnath Restaurant

Enjoy a vegetarian meal at a local restaurant in Sarnath, savoring traditional Indian flavors and hospitality.
There are several restaurants in the vicinity. You can choose one based on your preference. It's a 10-minute walk from the museum.
INR 300, 1 hour
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Day 4: Varanasi Exploration

Varanasi, India

9:00AM

Visit Ramnagar Fort

Explore the grand Ramnagar Fort, a historic 18th-century structure located on the eastern bank of the Ganges River.
You can hire a taxi or take a boat across the river to reach the fort. It's approximately 30 minutes away.
INR 150, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ganga View Restaurant

Enjoy a meal with a view of the Ganges River at this restaurant, known for its delicious North Indian cuisine and scenic ambiance.
The restaurant is located near the fort. You can walk there along the riverbank. It takes about 15 minutes.
INR 500, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Markets and Shopping

Discover the bustling markets of Varanasi, where you can shop for traditional handicrafts, silk sarees, and local souvenirs.
You can explore the markets on foot from the restaurant area. Allocate around 2 hours for shopping and strolling.
Variable, 2 hours
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Day 5: Day Trip to Chunar Fort

Chunar Fort, India

8:00AM

Drive to Chunar Fort

Embark on a scenic drive to Chunar Fort, a historic fortification perched on a hill overlooking the Ganges River.
You can hire a private car or take a bus to Chunar Fort. The journey takes approximately 2 hours.
INR 800 (round trip), 4 hours

12:00PM

Explore Chunar Fort

Discover the architectural marvels and panoramic views from Chunar Fort, known for its strategic location and medieval history.
Upon arrival, you can explore the fort on foot. Plan for at least 2 hours to see the key attractions.
INR 100, 2 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at Fort View Restaurant

Enjoy a meal with a view at a local restaurant near Chunar Fort, offering traditional Indian dishes and a relaxing ambiance.
There are eateries near the fort where you can dine. It's a short walk from the main entrance.
INR 400, 1 hour
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Day 6: Visit Ramnagar Fort

Ramnagar Fort, India

9:00AM

Explore Ramnagar Fort Museum

Immerse yourself in the history of Varanasi at Ramnagar Fort Museum, which houses a vast collection of artifacts and royal belongings.
The museum is within the fort complex. You can explore it on foot upon entering the fort.
INR 100, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ganga Kinare

Indulge in a riverside dining experience at Ganga Kinare, a restaurant known for its fusion cuisine and panoramic views of the Ganges.
The restaurant is located within the fort premises. You can enjoy your meal overlooking the river.
INR 600, 1 hour

2:00PM

Boat Ride to Assi Ghat

Conclude your day with a boat ride back to Varanasi, cruising along the Ganges River towards Assi Ghat as the sun sets.
You can hire a boat near the fort for a scenic ride back to the city. The journey takes around 1 hour.
INR 300, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Last Day in Varanasi

Varanasi, India

9:00AM

Visit New Vishwanath Temple

Explore the modern marvel of New Vishwanath Temple, also known as Birla Temple, showcasing intricate marble carvings and spiritual grandeur.
You can take a rickshaw or taxi to reach the temple from your accommodation. It's located in the city center.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Shop for Souvenirs

Take some time to shop for souvenirs and mementos in Varanasi, including silk products, traditional jewelry, and spiritual items.
Explore the local markets near Godowlia Chowk. Allow around 2 hours for browsing and bargaining.
Variable, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Open Hand Cafe

Enjoy a healthy and organic meal at Open Hand Cafe, known for its sustainable practices and delicious vegetarian dishes.
The cafe is located in the old city area. You can walk there from the market. It's about a 10-minute walk.
INR 450, 1 hour

3:00PM

Evening Aarti Ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat

Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat, where priests perform rituals with fire and incense as a form of devotion.
Join the crowds at the ghat for the evening ceremony. It's a short walk from the old city area.
Free entry, 1.5 hours
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