Cultural Exploration in Banaras

Day 1: Ghats and Temples

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Sunrise Boat Ride at Dashashwamedh Ghat

Start your day with a serene boat ride on the Ganges River as you witness the magical sunrise.
Walk to Dashashwamedh Ghat from your accommodation, the ride takes around 1 hour.
INR 200, 2 hours

10:00AM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Explore one of the most famous Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its spirituality and grandeur.
Walk to Kashi Vishwanath Temple from Dashashwamedh Ghat, it's a 10-minute walk.
Free (small donation optional), 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Deena Chat Bhandar

Enjoy a delicious vegetarian street food lunch at this popular local eatery known for its chaats and snacks.
Auto-rickshaw to Deena Chat Bhandar from Kashi Vishwanath Temple, it takes around 15 minutes.
INR 300, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Assi Ghat

Stroll along the riverbank and absorb the spiritual vibes at one of the oldest ghats in Varanasi.
Auto-rickshaw to Assi Ghat from Deena Chat Bhandar, it's a 20-minute ride.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Attend Ganga Aarti at Dasaswamedh Ghat

Witness the mesmerising Ganga Aarti ceremony, a spiritual ritual involving fire, music, and prayers.
Walk to Dasaswamedh Ghat from Assi Ghat, it's a 30-minute walk.
Free (donations appreciated), 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Sarnath Exploration

Sarnath, India

9:00AM

Visit Dhamek Stupa

Explore the ancient and majestic Dhamek Stupa, a significant Buddhist monument in Sarnath.
Taxi from Varanasi to Sarnath, it takes around 1 hour.
INR 50 (entry fee), 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Discover Sarnath Archaeological Museum

Delve into the history of Sarnath at this museum housing a rich collection of sculptures and artifacts.
Walking distance from Dhamek Stupa.
INR 5 (entry fee), 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Nirvana Cafe

Enjoy a peaceful meal overlooking the greenery at this cafe known for its serene ambiance and tasty food.
Walk to Nirvana Cafe from Sarnath Archaeological Museum, it's a 5-minute walk.
INR 400, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Thai Temple

Visit the Thai Buddhist Temple in Sarnath, offering a glimpse into the cultural diversity of the region.
Auto-rickshaw from Nirvana Cafe to Thai Temple, it's a 10-minute ride.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Relax at Mulagandhakuti Vihara

Unwind and meditate at this peaceful monastery, surrounded by beautiful gardens and tranquil surroundings.
Walking distance from Thai Temple.
Free, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Local Markets and Workshops

Varanasi, India

10:00AM

Shop at Vishwanath Lane

Explore the bustling market street of Vishwanath Lane, known for its silk sarees, jewellery, and traditional handicrafts.
Auto-rickshaw from your accommodation to Vishwanath Lane, it's a 20-minute ride.
Variable, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Baati Chokha

Indulge in a traditional Uttar Pradesh meal at this popular restaurant, serving authentic regional dishes.
Walk to Baati Chokha from Vishwanath Lane, it's a 10-minute walk.
INR 600, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Weaver's Village

Witness the art of weaving Banarasi sarees firsthand at a local weaver's village, understanding the intricate craftsmanship.
Taxi from Baati Chokha to the weaver's village, it takes around 30 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Open Hand Cafe

Enjoy a fusion of Indian and Continental cuisine with a view of the Ganges at this socially responsible cafe.
Walk to Open Hand Cafe from the weaver's village, it's a 5-minute walk.
INR 800, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability