Discovering Varanasi in 2 Days

Day 1: Spiritual Exploration

Varanasi, India

6:00AM

Sunrise Boat Ride on Ganges River

Start your day with a serene boat ride along the Ganges River to witness the mesmerizing sunrise and the rituals performed by the locals.
Head to Dashashwamedh Ghat and hire a boat. It's a 10-minute walk from most hotels in the area.
INR 200, 1.5 hours

8:00AM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Explore one of the most sacred temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its spirituality and architectural beauty.
Walk to the temple from Dashashwamedh Ghat, it's a 15-minute walk.
Free entry, donations accepted, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Baati Chokha

Enjoy a traditional North Indian meal at Baati Chokha restaurant, known for its authentic flavors and cozy ambiance.
Take a cycle rickshaw to the restaurant located in the Godowlia area, around 20 minutes away.
INR 500, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Sarnath

Visit the ancient site where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon, explore the ruins, museum, and Dhamek Stupa.
Take a taxi or auto-rickshaw to Sarnath, approximately 30 minutes away from Varanasi.
INR 300 (including entry fees), 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Open Hand Cafe

Relish a healthy and delicious dinner at Open Hand Cafe, offering a variety of vegetarian and vegan options.
Head to the cafe in Assi Ghat, easily reachable by auto-rickshaw from Sarnath.
INR 400, 1 hour
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Day 2: Market Exploration and Ganga Aarti

Varanasi, India

9:00AM

Visit Vishwanath Gali and Godowlia Market

Explore the bustling markets of Varanasi, shop for silk sarees, handicrafts, and souvenirs, and savor local street food.
Start from Dashashwamedh Ghat, take a leisurely walk to Vishwanath Gali and Godowlia Market.
Variable, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe

Indulge in wood-fired pizzas and Italian cuisine with an Indian twist at Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe.
Take a cycle rickshaw to the cafe near Assi Ghat, approximately 20 minutes away.
INR 600, 1 hour

5:00PM

Visit Assi Ghat and Attend Ganga Aarti

Experience the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at Assi Ghat as the sun sets over the holy river.
Walk from Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe to Assi Ghat, it's a 10-minute walk.
Free, donations appreciated, 1.5 hours
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