Spiritual Retreat in Varanasi

Day 1: Southern Charm

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Assi Ghat

Start your day with a traditional Indian breakfast at one of the local cafes overlooking the Ganges River at Assi Ghat.
Assi Ghat is a 15-minute walk from most hotels in the area.
INR 200, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple

Head to Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, known for its spiritual significance.
Take a cycle rickshaw from Assi Ghat to the temple, which is a 10-minute ride.
Free entry, donations appreciated, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Brown Bread Bakery

Enjoy a delicious vegetarian meal at Brown Bread Bakery, known for its organic food and great ambiance.
Take a short walk from the temple to reach the restaurant.
INR 500, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Banaras Hindu University

Visit Banaras Hindu University, one of the largest residential universities in Asia, and explore its beautiful campus.
Take a cycle rickshaw or taxi from the restaurant to the university, which is a 20-minute ride.
Free entry, 2 hours

5:00PM

Attend Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat

Experience the mesmerising Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat, a spiritual ritual that takes place every evening.
Take a taxi or tuk-tuk from the university to the ghat, which is a 30-minute ride.
Free entry, donations appreciated, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Open Hand Cafe

End your day with a scrumptious dinner at Open Hand Cafe, known for its rooftop dining and delicious international cuisine.
Walk from Dashashwamedh Ghat to the restaurant, which is located nearby.
INR 800, 1 hour
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Day 2: City Centre Exploration

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Blue Lassi

Start your day with a visit to Blue Lassi, a famous spot known for its variety of traditional Indian lassis (yogurt-based drinks).
Blue Lassi is a short walk from most hotels in the city centre.
INR 150, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Visit the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and witness the grandeur of its architecture and religious significance.
Take a cycle rickshaw from Blue Lassi to the temple, which is a 15-minute ride.
Free entry, special darshan tickets available, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Baati Chokha

Enjoy a traditional North Indian thali meal at Baati Chokha, a popular restaurant offering authentic regional cuisine.
Take a short walk from the temple to the restaurant.
INR 400, 1 hour

2:30PM

Boat Ride on the Ganges

Embark on a boat ride along the Ganges River to witness the ghats and the vibrant life on the riverbanks.
Walk to Dashashwamedh Ghat for the boat ride, which can be easily arranged on-site.
INR 300 per person, 1 hour

4:00PM

Shopping at Vishwanath Galli

Explore the bustling Vishwanath Galli market for souvenirs, traditional clothing, and local handicrafts.
Walk from Dashashwamedh Ghat to Vishwanath Galli, which is a 10-minute walk.
Variable based on purchases, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Shree Cafe

Indulge in a hearty dinner at Shree Cafe, known for its delicious Indian and Italian fusion cuisine.
Walk back to the city centre from Vishwanath Galli to reach the restaurant.
INR 700, 1 hour
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