Spiritual Retreat in Varanasi

Day 1: City Exploration

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Morning Boat Ride on the Ganges

Start your day with a serene boat ride along the sacred Ganges River, witnessing the morning rituals and ghats come to life.
Head to Dashashwamedh Ghat and hire a boat. It's a 10-minute walk from most hotels in the city centre.
INR 200, 2 hours

10:30AM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Explore one of the most famous temples in Varanasi dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its spiritual significance and stunning architecture.
Take a cycle rickshaw from Dashashwamedh Ghat to the temple.
Free entry, donations appreciated, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Deena Chat Bhandar

Indulge in delicious street food at this popular local eatery known for its chaat and traditional Indian snacks.
It's a short walk from Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
INR 300, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Banaras Hindu University

Visit the renowned university campus, known for its beautiful gardens, museums, and the Bharat Kala Bhavan art gallery.
Take a taxi or auto-rickshaw from the city centre to BHU.
Free entry, 2 hours

6:00PM

Evening Aarti at Assi Ghat

Witness the mesmerising Ganga Aarti ceremony at Assi Ghat, where priests perform rituals with oil lamps and incense, creating a spiritual ambiance.
Walk or take a short auto-rickshaw ride from BHU to Assi Ghat.
Free, donations welcomed, 1 hour
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Day 2: Sarnath Excursion

Varanasi, India

9:00AM

Visit Dhamek Stupa

Explore the ancient stupa built in 500 CE to commemorate Buddha's teachings after his enlightenment.
Take a taxi or hire a guide for the 30-minute journey from Varanasi to Sarnath.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Sarnath Archaeological Museum

Discover a rich collection of sculptures, artifacts and edicts from the ancient Mauryan period, showcasing the history of Sarnath.
The museum is a short walk from Dhamek Stupa.
INR 20, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Sarnath Cafe

Enjoy a quiet meal at this local cafe, offering a mix of Indian and international cuisine.
The cafe is located near the museum.
INR 400, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Mulagandha Kuti Vihar

Explore the beautiful temple known for its frescoes depicting the life of Buddha and its peaceful surroundings.
It's a short walk from Sarnath Cafe.
INR 50, 1 hour

5:00PM

Return to Varanasi

Head back to Varanasi to relax and unwind after a day of exploring Sarnath.
Take a taxi or hire a guide for the journey back to Varanasi.
Varies, 1 hour
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Day 3: Ganges River Rituals

Varanasi, India

5:00AM

Sunrise Boat Ride

Experience the tranquility of the Ganges at sunrise, as you witness the rituals and daily life along the river banks.
Start early and head to Assi Ghat for a boat ride.
INR 300, 2 hours

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe

Enjoy a hearty breakfast with a view of the river at this charming cafe offering a mix of Indian and Italian dishes.
The cafe is located near Assi Ghat.
INR 500, 1 hour

10:00AM

Walk along the Ghats

Take a leisurely stroll along the ghats, observing the daily life, rituals, and activities that unfold by the river.
Start from Assi Ghat and walk towards Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Open Hand Cafe

Enjoy a healthy and organic meal at this cafe known for its sustainable practices and delicious vegetarian food.
The cafe is located near Dashashwamedh Ghat.
INR 600, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Tulsi Manas Temple

Explore this temple dedicated to Lord Rama, known for its walls inscribed with verses from the Ramcharitmanas.
Take a short auto-rickshaw ride from Dashashwamedh Ghat to the temple.
INR 20, 1 hour

6:00PM

Attend Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat

Experience the grand Ganga Aarti ceremony at the main ghat in Varanasi, a mesmerising spectacle of lights, music, and rituals.
Join the crowds at Dashashwamedh Ghat for the evening aarti.
Free, donations appreciated, 1 hour
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