Spiritual Journey in Varanasi by Rail

Day 1: Sacred Exploration

Varanasi, India on April 15, 2024

8:00AM

Morning Boat Ride on River Ganges

Start your day with a serene morning boat ride on the sacred River Ganges, witnessing the spiritual rituals and ancient ghats.
Head to Dashashwamedh Ghat for the boat ride. It is a short walk from the main city area.
INR 200, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Explore one of the holiest temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its spiritual significance and magnificent architecture.
From Dashashwamedh Ghat, take a cycle rickshaw to reach Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
INR 100 (entry fee), 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Deena Chat Bhandar

Indulge in authentic Varanasi street food at Deena Chat Bhandar, known for its delicious chaat and snacks.
Deena Chat Bhandar is located near the temple area.
INR 300, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Sarnath

Visit the ancient site of Sarnath, where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon, and explore the ruins and Buddhist monuments.
Take a taxi from the city center to reach Sarnath. It's about a 30-minute drive.
INR 150 (entry fee), 2 hours

6:00PM

Attend Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat

Experience the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat, a spiritual ritual that shouldn't be missed.
Walk back to Dashashwamedh Ghat from Sarnath or take a taxi if preferred.
Free (donations welcome), 1 hour

8:00PM

Dinner at Baati Chokha

Enjoy a traditional North Indian dinner at Baati Chokha, known for its authentic flavors and cozy ambiance.
Baati Chokha is a short drive from Dashashwamedh Ghat.
INR 500, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Immersion

Varanasi, India on April 16, 2024

9:00AM

Visit Banaras Hindu University (BHU)

Explore the sprawling campus of Banaras Hindu University, known for its academic excellence and cultural heritage.
Take a taxi from your accommodation to reach BHU. It's about a 20-minute drive.
INR 50 (entry fee for museum), 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe

Enjoy a fusion of Italian and Indian flavors at Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe, a popular spot near BHU.
The cafe is a short walk from the university campus.
INR 400, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Weaver's Village

Visit a local weaver's village to witness the intricate art of weaving traditional Banarasi sarees.
Take a taxi from BHU to the weaver's village. It's about a 30-minute drive.
INR 100 (donation for the weavers), 2 hours

5:00PM

Shopping at Vishwanath Lane

Browse through the bustling Vishwanath Lane for authentic Banarasi silk products and souvenirs.
Take a cycle rickshaw or walk from the weaver's village to Vishwanath Lane.
Variable based on purchases, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Open Hand Shop & Cafe

Enjoy a wholesome dinner at Open Hand Shop & Cafe, known for its organic and sustainable menu.
Vishwanath Lane is a short walk from the cafe.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Farewell Varanasi

Varanasi, India on April 17, 2024

9:00AM

Boat Ride to Manikarnika Ghat

Embark on a boat ride to the sacred Manikarnika Ghat, one of the oldest and most significant ghats in Varanasi.
Start from Dashashwamedh Ghat for the boat ride to Manikarnika Ghat.
INR 150, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit Ramnagar Fort

Explore the historical Ramnagar Fort, a blend of Mughal and Indian architecture, housing a museum and scenic views of the Ganges.
Take a taxi from the ghat area to reach Ramnagar Fort. It's about a 40-minute drive.
INR 100 (entry fee), 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ganga View Restaurant

Savor a delicious meal with a view of the Ganges at Ganga View Restaurant, offering a serene dining experience.
The restaurant is located near the fort area.
INR 500, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Chowk Market

Immerse yourself in the vibrant chaos of Chowk Market, known for its traditional handicrafts, street food, and bustling atmosphere.
Chowk Market is a short walk from the restaurant.
Variable based on purchases, 2 hours

6:00PM

Attend Ganga Aarti at Assi Ghat

Witness the serene Ganga Aarti ceremony at Assi Ghat, marking the end of your spiritual journey in Varanasi.
Take a taxi from Chowk Market to reach Assi Ghat in time for the evening ceremony.
Free (donations welcome), 1 hour
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