Spiritual Retreat in Varanasi

Day 1: Spiritual Immersion

Varanasi, India

8:00 AM

Morning Boat Ride on River Ganges

Begin your day with a serene boat ride along the sacred River Ganges, witnessing devotees performing morning rituals and prayers.
Head to Dashashwamedh Ghat for the boat ride. It takes about 20 minutes to reach the ghat from most hotels in Varanasi.
INR 200, 2 hours

11:00 AM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Explore one of the holiest Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Experience the spiritual energy and architectural beauty of the temple.
The temple is located near the river. It's a 10-minute walk from Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Free entry, donations accepted, 1.5 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at a Local Varanasi Restaurant

Savor authentic Banarasi cuisine at a local restaurant. Try dishes like chaat, kachori, and lassi.
Ask locals for recommendations or head to Vishwanath Gali for a variety of food options.
INR 300, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Explore Sarnath

Visit the ancient site where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon. Explore the stupas, temples, and the Ashoka Pillar.
Take a taxi or auto-rickshaw to Sarnath from Varanasi. It's about a 30-minute drive.
INR 100 (entry fee), 2 hours

6:00 PM

Attend Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat

Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony, a spiritual ritual with fire lamps and chants, at the main ghat of Varanasi.
Head back to Dashashwamedh Ghat in the evening. Arrive early to get a good viewing spot.
Free, donations appreciated, 1 hour

8:00 PM

Dinner at a Riverside Restaurant

Enjoy a peaceful dinner by the Ganges, soaking in the mystical atmosphere of Varanasi at night.
Choose a restaurant along the riverbank for a scenic dining experience.
INR 500, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Exploration

Varanasi, India

9:00 AM

Visit Banaras Hindu University (BHU)

Explore the sprawling campus of BHU, visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, and appreciate the architecture of the university.
Take a taxi or auto-rickshaw to BHU from your accommodation. It's a 20-minute drive.
INR 50 (museum entry), 2 hours

11:30 AM

Shopping at Vishwanath Gali

Indulge in some souvenir shopping at the bustling Vishwanath Gali. Buy traditional Banarasi silk sarees, jewelry, and handicrafts.
You can walk to Vishwanath Gali from the Kashi Vishwanath Temple area.
Variable, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Try some more local delicacies at a different restaurant. Don't miss the famous Varanasi paan after your meal.
Explore nearby eateries for a lunch spot with a variety of options.
INR 400, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Walk along Assi Ghat

Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Assi Ghat, known for its peaceful ambiance and beautiful views of the river.
Assi Ghat is a short walk from the main ghats. You can also hire a cycle rickshaw for a quick ride.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Sunset at Manikarnika Ghat

Experience the intense yet spiritual atmosphere at one of the oldest and busiest cremation ghats in Varanasi during sunset.
Manikarnika Ghat is a short walk from Assi Ghat. Be respectful of the surroundings.
Free, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Dinner at a Rooftop Restaurant

Enjoy your final dinner in Varanasi with a rooftop dining experience overlooking the Ganges River and the ghats.
Choose a rooftop restaurant near the ghats for a memorable dining experience.
INR 600, 2 hours
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