Discovering Banaras in 2 Days

Day 1: Spiritual Serenity

Banaras, India

8:00AM

Morning Boat Ride on River Ganges

Start your day with a peaceful boat ride along the sacred River Ganges, witnessing the morning rituals and offerings by the locals.
Head to Dashashwamedh Ghat where you can find boat services. It's a 15-minute walk from most hotels in the city center.
500 INR, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Explore one of the most famous and revered temples in Banaras, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Experience the spiritual ambiance and intricate architecture.
Walk from Dashashwamedh Ghat to Kashi Vishwanath Temple, which takes about 10 minutes.
Free, donations appreciated, 1-2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Brown Bread Bakery

Enjoy a delicious and healthy meal at this popular cafe known for its organic and vegetarian options.
Brown Bread Bakery is located near the Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
800 INR, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Sarnath

Visit the ancient site of Sarnath, where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon. Explore the ruins, stupas, and the Archaeological Museum.
Take a taxi from the city center to Sarnath, which is around a 30-minute drive.
300 INR (taxi fare), 2-3 hours

6:00PM

Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat

Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat, where priests perform rituals with fire, incense, and lamps to honor the River Ganges.
Walk back to Dashashwamedh Ghat from Sarnath or take a taxi if preferred.
Free, donations appreciated, 1 hour

8:00PM

Dinner at Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe

Relax and unwind at this rooftop cafe offering a mix of Italian and Indian cuisine with a lovely view of the city.
Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe is located in the Godowlia area, a short walk from Dashashwamedh Ghat.
1000 INR, 1-2 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Immersion

Banaras, India

9:00AM

Breakfast at Deena Chat Bhandar

Start your day with a local breakfast experience at this famous street food joint known for its mouth-watering chaats and snacks.
Deena Chat Bhandar is located near Godowlia Chowk, easily accessible from most hotels.
200 INR, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Banaras Hindu University

Explore the sprawling campus of one of the largest residential universities in Asia. Visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum and the famous Vishwanath Temple within the campus.
Take a taxi or cycle rickshaw to Banaras Hindu University, which is a 20-minute drive from the city center.
Free entry to the university, museum entry 300 INR, 2-3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Baati Chokha

Indulge in a traditional Bihari meal at Baati Chokha, known for its authentic flavors and rustic ambiance.
Baati Chokha is located near Lanka, a short distance from Banaras Hindu University.
700 INR, 1 hour

4:00PM

Shop at Vishwanath Gali

Explore the bustling lanes of Vishwanath Gali, a vibrant market selling traditional Banarasi silk sarees, handicrafts, and street food.
Walk from Baati Chokha to Vishwanath Gali, which is a popular shopping area near the university.
Variable based on shopping, 2 hours

6:00PM

Sunset at Assi Ghat

Relax by the serene Assi Ghat, known for its peaceful ambiance and beautiful sunset views over the Ganges.
Take a leisurely walk from Vishwanath Gali to Assi Ghat, which is about a 15-minute stroll.
Free, 1 hour

8:00PM

Dinner at Open Hand Cafe

Enjoy a cultural dining experience at this cafe known for its organic and locally sourced menu, accompanied by live music performances.
Open Hand Cafe is located near Assi Ghat, a short walk from the riverfront.
1200 INR, 1-2 hours
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