Cultural Delights of Varanasi

Day 1: Exploring Varanasi

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Morning Boat Ride on the Ganges

Start your day with a serene boat ride along the Ganges River, witnessing the morning rituals and the spiritual essence of Varanasi.
Head to Dashashwamedh Ghat to hire a boat. It is a 15-minute walk from most accommodations along the ghats.
INR 200, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Explore one of the holiest temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its stunning architecture and religious significance.
The temple is a 10-minute walk from Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Free entry, donations accepted, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Baati Chokha

Indulge in authentic Varanasi cuisine at Baati Chokha, known for its delicious traditional thali meals.
It's a 15-minute walk from Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
INR 500, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Assi Ghat and Temples

Take a leisurely stroll around Assi Ghat, visit the numerous temples in the area, and immerse yourself in the spiritual vibe of Varanasi.
Assi Ghat is a 20-minute walk from Baati Chokha.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat

Witness the captivating Ganga Aarti ceremony, a mesmerizing ritual of light and sound, at the iconic Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Dashashwamedh Ghat is a short walk from Assi Ghat.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 2: Sarnath Day Trip

Sarnath, India

9:00AM

Visit Dhamek Stupa

Begin your day with a visit to the ancient Dhamek Stupa, a significant Buddhist monument in Sarnath.
Sarnath is around 13 km from Varanasi. You can hire a taxi for the 30-minute journey.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Sarnath Archaeological Museum

Discover the rich history of Sarnath through the artefacts and sculptures displayed at the Archaeological Museum.
The museum is a short walk from Dhamek Stupa.
INR 20, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at The Mulberry Tree

Enjoy a delightful meal at The Mulberry Tree, offering a mix of Indian and international cuisine in a serene setting.
The restaurant is near the museum, a 5-minute walk away.
INR 800, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Chaukhandi Stupa and Monasteries

Explore the ancient ruins of Chaukhandi Stupa and the nearby monasteries, soaking in the peaceful ambience of Sarnath.
Chaukhandi Stupa is a short drive from the museum.
Free, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Varanasi Heritage

Varanasi, India

9:00AM

Walking tour of Varanasi's Old City

Embark on a guided walking tour through the narrow lanes of Varanasi's Old City, discovering hidden gems and ancient architecture.
Meet your guide at Godowlia Chowk, a central point in the Old City.
INR 500 (guide fee), 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe

Enjoy a fusion of flavours at Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe, known for its wood-fired pizzas and tranquil rooftop seating.
The cafe is a 10-minute walk from the end point of your walking tour.
INR 600, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Bharat Mata Temple and Banaras Hindu University

Explore the unique Bharat Mata Temple and take a stroll around the prestigious Banaras Hindu University campus.
Both attractions are a short taxi ride away from the cafe.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Shopping at Vishwanath Lane

Indulge in some souvenir shopping at Vishwanath Lane, known for its vibrant market offering traditional handicrafts and textiles.
Vishwanath Lane is a 15-minute taxi ride from Banaras Hindu University.
Variable, 2 hours
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Day 4: Spiritual Reflections

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Yoga and Meditation Session

Start your day with a rejuvenating yoga and meditation session at a local studio, embracing the spiritual atmosphere of Varanasi.
Your hotel can recommend nearby yoga studios for the session.
INR 300, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Explore Ramnagar Fort

Visit the historic Ramnagar Fort, an architectural marvel situated on the banks of the Ganges, offering insights into Varanasi's royal past.
You can reach Ramnagar Fort via a 30-minute taxi ride from the city centre.
INR 100, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Open Hand Cafe

Enjoy a wholesome meal at Open Hand Cafe, known for its organic and healthy food options, overlooking the Ganges River.
The cafe is a 5-minute walk from Ramnagar Fort.
INR 700, 1 hour

3:00PM

Boat Ride to Manikarnika Ghat

Embark on a boat ride to the Manikarnika Ghat, one of the oldest and most sacred ghats in Varanasi, witnessing the circle of life.
You can hire a boat near Ramnagar Fort for the journey.
INR 300, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Farewell Varanasi

Varanasi, India

10:00AM

Saree Shopping at Gyanvapi

Explore the bustling Gyanvapi area, famous for its wide range of traditional Banarasi sarees, a perfect souvenir to take back home.
Gyanvapi is a 10-minute walk from most hotels in Varanasi.
Variable, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Kachori Gali

Indulge in the local favourite, kachori sabzi, at the popular Kachori Gali street food hub, experiencing authentic flavours of Varanasi.
Kachori Gali is a short walk from Gyanvapi.
INR 100, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Weaver's Village

Explore a traditional weaver's village near Varanasi, witnessing the intricate art of weaving Banarasi sarees.
You can hire a taxi for a 1-hour journey to the weaver's village.
INR 500 (approx.), 2 hours
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