Spiritual Journey in Varanasi

Day 1: Sacred Sites

Varanasi, India

8:00 AM

Morning Boat Ride on Ganges

Start your day with a serene boat ride along the Ganges River, witnessing the rituals and spirituality of Varanasi come to life.
Head to Dashashwamedh Ghat to hire a boat. It's a 10-minute walk from most hotels along the riverbank.
INR 200, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Visit one of the most famous temples in Varanasi dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its spiritual significance and architectural beauty.
Walk from Dashashwamedh Ghat to the temple, around a 15-minute walk.
Free entry, donations appreciated, 1-2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe

Enjoy a delicious Italian meal with a view of the Ganges at this cozy cafe.
From the temple, take a rickshaw to the cafe in Assi Ghat area, a 20-minute ride.
INR 500, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Manikarnika Ghat

Experience the powerful atmosphere of the main cremation ghat in Varanasi, a place where Hindus believe to attain moksha.
Walk or take a rickshaw from Assi Ghat to Manikarnika Ghat, approximately a 30-minute ride.
Free entry, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat

Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony, a spiritual ritual of light and sound dedicated to the Ganges River.
Walk back to Dashashwamedh Ghat for the evening aarti.
Free entry, donations appreciated, 1 hour
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Day 2: Local Markets

Varanasi, India

9:00 AM

Visit Vishwanath Gali

Explore the narrow lanes filled with shops selling silk products, jewelry, and traditional Banarasi sarees.
Start at Godowlia Chowk and wander through the vibrant market streets.
Depends on shopping, 2-3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Blue Lassi

Taste the famous lassis in various flavours at this iconic lassi shop loved by locals and tourists alike.
Walk from Vishwanath Gali to Blue Lassi in Chowk area, around a 10-minute walk.
INR 100, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Sarnath Excursion

Visit Sarnath, where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. Explore the ruins and museums.
Take a taxi or hire a guide for a 30-minute drive from Varanasi to Sarnath.
INR 200 for entry to museums, 2-3 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Baati Chokha

Indulge in authentic North Indian cuisine at this popular restaurant known for its traditional dishes.
Return to Varanasi and head to Baati Chokha in Lahurabir area, a 20-minute drive.
INR 800 for two, 1 hour
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Day 3: Ganga Aarti

Varanasi, India

10:00 AM

Bharat Mata Temple

Start your day by visiting the unique temple dedicated to Mother India, showcasing a relief map of the country in marble.
Located in the Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapith campus, a 15-minute drive from the city center.
Free entry, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Lunch at Shree Cafe

Enjoy a vegetarian meal at this rooftop cafe with a peaceful ambiance and views of the city.
From Bharat Mata Temple, take a taxi to Shree Cafe in Assi Ghat area, around a 20-minute ride.
INR 300, 1 hour

4:00 PM

Explore Ramnagar Fort

Visit the historic fort located on the eastern bank of the Ganges, showcasing a blend of Mughal and Indian architecture.
Cross the Ganges by boat and then take a taxi to reach Ramnagar Fort, approximately a 45-minute journey.
INR 100 for entry, 1-2 hours

6:00 PM

Ganga Aarti at Assi Ghat

Experience a more serene Ganga Aarti ceremony at Assi Ghat, away from the crowds, offering a peaceful end to your spiritual journey.
Head to Assi Ghat for the evening aarti ceremony.
Free entry, donations appreciated, 1 hour
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