Spiritual Journey in Varanasi and Ayodhya

Day 1: Exploring Varanasi

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Morning Boat Ride on River Ganges

Start your day with a serene boat ride along the sacred River Ganges, witnessing the morning rituals and the ghats come to life.
You can reach the Assi Ghat for the boat ride by hiring a local boat or walking from your accommodation. It's a 15-minute walk from the main city area.
INR 200, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Explore one of the holiest temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, experiencing the spiritual vibes and intricate architecture.
From Assi Ghat, you can take a rickshaw to reach the temple. It's a 20-minute ride.
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 variety of chaats and sweets.
Deena Chat Bhandar is located near the Godowlia Chowk, a 10-minute walk from Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
INR 300, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Sarnath

Visit the ancient ruins and Buddhist stupas at Sarnath, where Lord Buddha preached his first sermon.
Sarnath is a 30-minute drive from Varanasi city centre. You can hire a taxi or use a ride-sharing service.
INR 100 (entry fee), 2 hours

6:00PM

Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat

Witness the mesmerising Ganga Aarti ceremony, a spiritual ritual performed by priests with oil lamps and Vedic hymns at the main ghat.
Dashashwamedh Ghat is a short walk from the main market area. Follow the crowd towards the riverbank.
Free, consider a donation, 1 hour

8:00PM

Dinner at Open Hand Cafe

Enjoy a peaceful dinner with a view of the Ganges at this rooftop restaurant offering a mix of Indian and international cuisine.
The cafe is located near Assi Ghat, around a 15-minute walk from Dashashwamedh Ghat.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Immersion in Varanasi

Varanasi, India

9:00AM

Visit Banaras Hindu University (BHU)

Explore the sprawling campus of BHU, home to the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum and the famous Vishwanath Temple.
BHU is located in Lanka area, easily reachable by auto-rickshaw from the city centre. The ride takes about 20 minutes.
INR 100 (museum entry fee), 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe

Relish wood-fired pizzas and fusion dishes at this cosy cafe with a vibrant ambience.
The cafe is situated near BHU, a short walk from the museum entrance.
INR 500, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore the Weaver's Village

Witness the traditional art of weaving Banarasi silk sarees at a local village, interacting with skilled artisans.
The village is located on the outskirts of Varanasi. You can hire a taxi or join a guided tour.
INR 200 (guide fee), 2 hours

5:00PM

Visit Tulsi Manas Temple

Pay homage at the Tulsi Manas Temple, known for its walls inscribed with verses from the Ramcharitmanas.
The temple is a short drive from the weaver's village. You can hire a taxi or use a ride-sharing service.
Free entry, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Baati Chokha

Savour authentic Bihari cuisine at this restaurant, offering a range of dishes like litti chokha and theplas.
Baati Chokha is located in the Godowlia area, a 15-minute drive from Tulsi Manas Temple.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Spiritual Retreat in Varanasi

Varanasi, India

6:00AM

Yoga and Meditation by the Ganges

Start your day with a tranquil yoga and meditation session by the riverside, embracing the peaceful ambiance of Varanasi.
You can join a morning yoga class at one of the many yoga centres near the ghats. Ask your accommodation for recommendations.
INR 500 (yoga class), 1.5 hours

9:00AM

Breakfast at Shree Cafe

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at this cafe known for its delicious pancakes, smoothies, and organic food options.
Shree Cafe is located near the main ghat area. It's a 10-minute walk from the yoga centre.
INR 400, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit the Durga Temple

Explore the vibrant Durga Temple dedicated to Goddess Durga, adorned with colourful tiles and intricate carvings.
The temple is in the Vishwanath Gali area, a short walk from Shree Cafe.
Free entry, donations welcome, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Brown Bread Bakery

Indulge in healthy and freshly baked goodies at this quaint bakery popular for its sandwiches, salads, and desserts.
The bakery is located near the main market. It's a 15-minute walk from the Durga Temple.
INR 350, 1 hour

3:00PM

Saree Shopping in Varanasi

Explore the bustling markets to buy exquisite Banarasi sarees, known for their intricate designs and traditional craftsmanship.
Head to Thatheri Bazar or Godowlia Market for a wide selection of sarees. You can easily walk or take a rickshaw.
Variable, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Kashi Chat Bhandar

Treat your taste buds with the famous kachoris and chaats at this iconic street food joint in Varanasi.
Kashi Chat Bhandar is situated in the Godowlia area, a short distance from the market.
INR 200, 1 hour
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Day 4: Historical Exploration in Ayodhya

Ayodhya, India

9:00AM

Visit Hanuman Garhi

Begin your day by exploring the Hanuman Garhi temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman and offering panoramic views of Ayodhya.
Hanuman Garhi is a short drive from the city centre. You can hire a taxi or use a local rickshaw.
Free entry, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Ram Janmabhoomi

Visit the sacred site of Ram Janmabhoomi, believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama, and witness the ongoing archaeological excavations.
Ram Janmabhoomi is a 10-minute walk from Hanuman Garhi. Follow the signs or ask locals for directions.
Free entry, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Gupta Ji Ki Dukaan

Enjoy a traditional vegetarian meal at this local eatery known for its authentic North Indian cuisine.
Gupta Ji Ki Dukaan is located near the main market area, a short walk from Ram Janmabhoomi.
INR 250, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Kanak Bhawan

Explore the beautiful Kanak Bhawan temple dedicated to Lord Rama and Goddess Sita, known for its intricate carvings and vibrant idols.
Kanak Bhawan is a 20-minute walk from the main market. You can easily follow the signs or ask for directions.
Free entry, 1 hour

5:00PM

Evening Stroll at Naya Ghat

Take a leisurely walk along the serene Naya Ghat, enjoying the peaceful surroundings and views of the Sarayu River.
Naya Ghat is a short distance from Kanak Bhawan. You can walk or take a cycle rickshaw for a scenic ride.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Ayodhya Cafe

Relish traditional Awadhi dishes at this cosy cafe, offering a range of kebabs, biryanis, and desserts.
Ayodhya Cafe is located near the riverside, a perfect spot to end your day with delicious food and river views.
INR 500, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Final Day in Ayodhya

Ayodhya, India

8:00AM

Boating on Sarayu River

Embark on a serene boat ride on the Sarayu River, enjoying the tranquillity and scenic beauty of Ayodhya from the water.
You can hire a boat near Naya Ghat for the ride. Negotiate the price with the boatman for a short tour.
INR 300, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Valmiki Ramayan Bhawan

Visit the Valmiki Ramayan Bhawan, a museum showcasing the epic story of Ramayana through paintings and sculptures.
The museum is located in the central part of Ayodhya, easily accessible by foot or cycle rickshaw.
INR 50 (entry fee), 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ram Ki Paidi

Enjoy a riverside meal at Ram Ki Paidi, a popular spot for pilgrims and locals to relax and dine by the river.
Ram Ki Paidi is a short walk from the museum. Follow the riverside path to find various food stalls and eateries.
INR 200, 1 hour

2:00PM

Shopping at Ayodhya Market

Explore the local market for souvenirs and religious items, including idols, prayer beads, and traditional clothing.
Ayodhya Market is bustling with shops selling a variety of goods. Wander around on foot to browse and shop.
Variable, 2 hours

5:00PM

Visit Nageshwarnath Temple

End your day with a visit to Nageshwarnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and known for its historical significance.
The temple is located in the heart of Ayodhya city, easily reachable on foot or by a short rickshaw ride.
Free entry, 1 hour
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