Spiritual Journey Through Varanasi and Ayodhya

Day 1: Varanasi Exploration

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Morning Boat Ride on River Ganges

Start your day with a serene boat ride on the sacred River Ganges, witnessing the spiritual rituals and morning prayers along the ghats.
Head to Dashashwamedh Ghat where boats are available for hire. It's a 10-minute walk from most hotels in the old city.
INR 200, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Explore one of the holiest temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, experiencing the divine atmosphere and intricate architecture.
The temple is located near the river in the old city, around a 15-minute walk from Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Free (donations accepted), 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe

Enjoy a delicious Italian meal with a view at this unique cafe near the ghats, offering a peaceful retreat from the bustling streets.
It's a short walk from Kashi Vishwanath Temple, located on Bangali Tola Road.
INR 500, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Sarnath

Visit the ancient site where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon, exploring the ruins, museums, and Dhamek Stupa.
Take a taxi or tuk-tuk from Varanasi city centre to reach Sarnath, approximately a 30-minute drive.
INR 300 (entry fees), 2 hours

6:00PM

Attend Ganga Aarti at Assi Ghat

Witness the mesmerising Ganga Aarti ceremony at Assi Ghat as the river comes alive with lamps, incense, and devotional songs.
Assi Ghat is around 20 minutes away from Sarnath by taxi or tuk-tuk.
Free (donations appreciated), 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Open Hand Cafe

Indulge in a sumptuous dinner at this rooftop cafe offering panoramic views of the Ganges and the cityscape.
It's located near Assi Ghat, a short walk from the riverbank.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Spiritual Immersion in Varanasi

Varanasi, India

9:00AM

Visit Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple

Begin your day with a visit to this sacred temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, known for its spiritual significance and peaceful vibes.
The temple is located near the Assi Ghat, a 15-minute walk from most hotels in the area.
Free (donations accepted), 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Banaras Hindu University (BHU)

Discover the sprawling campus of BHU, home to various faculties, museums, and the iconic Bharat Kala Bhavan showcasing Indian art.
BHU is a short drive or tuk-tuk ride from Sankat Mochan Temple.
INR 100 (museum entry), 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Baati Chokha

Treat yourself to authentic Bihari cuisine at this popular restaurant, savouring dishes like litti chokha and the special thali.
Baati Chokha is located near BHU, easily accessible by a short walk or rickshaw ride.
INR 400, 1 hour

3:30PM

Shop at Vishwanath Gali

Explore the narrow lanes of Vishwanath Gali, known for its vibrant shops selling traditional Banarasi sarees, jewellery, and souvenirs.
Vishwanath Gali is located in the heart of the old city, a 10-minute walk from the main temples.
Variable, 2 hours

6:00PM

Enjoy Street Food at Godowlia Chowk

Treat your taste buds to local delicacies like chaat, samosas, and jalebis at the bustling food stalls of Godowlia Chowk.
Godowlia Chowk is a short walk from Vishwanath Gali, offering a variety of street food options.
INR 200, 1 hour

8:00PM

Dinner at Bati Chokha

Return to this restaurant for a delightful dinner experience, trying out more regional delicacies and desserts.
Head back to Baati Chokha for dinner, enjoying the vibrant ambience and flavours.
INR 500, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Historical Exploration in Ayodhya

Ayodhya, India

9:00AM

Visit Ram Janmabhoomi

Begin your day by exploring the sacred site of Ram Janmabhoomi, believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama and a place of great reverence.
Ram Janmabhoomi is located in the heart of Ayodhya, easily accessible from most hotels in the city.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Hanuman Garhi

Visit the ancient temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, known for its architecture, panoramic views of the city, and religious significance.
Hanuman Garhi is a short walk or drive from Ram Janmabhoomi, offering a scenic viewpoint.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Guptar Ghat

Enjoy a riverside meal at Guptar Ghat, savouring local delicacies while soaking in the serene atmosphere by the Sarayu River.
Guptar Ghat is a short walk from Hanuman Garhi, offering a peaceful dining experience by the water.
INR 300, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Kanak Bhawan Temple

Explore the beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Rama and Goddess Sita, known for its intricate carvings and vibrant deity idols.
Kanak Bhawan Temple is located near the city centre, easily reachable by a short walk or rickshaw ride.
Free (donations accepted), 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Explore Nageshwarnath Temple

Discover the ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its historical significance and peaceful ambience for prayers.
Nageshwarnath Temple is a short distance from Kanak Bhawan Temple, offering a serene retreat for spiritual seekers.
Free (donations accepted), 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Ayodhya Royal Cafe

Indulge in a royal dining experience at this elegant cafe, serving a mix of Mughlai, Awadhi, and North Indian cuisines in a regal setting.
Ayodhya Royal Cafe is located in the city centre, offering a luxurious dining ambiance for guests.
INR 700, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Cultural Heritage in Ayodhya

Ayodhya, India

9:00AM

Visit Valmiki Ramayan Bhawan

Explore the museum dedicated to the epic Ramayana, showcasing artefacts, paintings, and manuscripts related to the ancient Indian epic.
Valmiki Ramayan Bhawan is located near the city centre, providing insights into the literary and cultural heritage of Ayodhya.
INR 50 (entry fees), 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Tulsi Smarak Bhawan

Visit the memorial dedicated to the renowned poet-saint Goswami Tulsidas, known for his contributions to literature and devotion to Lord Rama.
Tulsi Smarak Bhawan is a short walk from Valmiki Ramayan Bhawan, offering a peaceful setting for reflection.
INR 30 (entry fees), 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Ram Ki Paidi

Enjoy a traditional meal at the popular dining spot of Ram Ki Paidi, overlooking the Sarayu River and offering a serene dining experience.
Ram Ki Paidi is located near Tulsi Smarak Bhawan, providing a picturesque setting for lunch by the riverside.
INR 400, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Ayodhya Shodh Sansthan

Visit the research institute showcasing the history and archaeological findings related to Ayodhya, offering insights into the city's heritage.
Ayodhya Shodh Sansthan is located in the city centre, a short distance from Ram Ki Paidi, suitable for history enthusiasts.
INR 100 (entry fees), 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Shop for Souvenirs at Kala Bhawan

Explore the local craft market at Kala Bhawan, where you can find handicrafts, artworks, and traditional items as mementos of your trip.
Kala Bhawan is located near the Ayodhya Shodh Sansthan, offering a variety of authentic souvenirs to take back home.
Variable, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Ramayan Cafe

Conclude your day with a delightful dinner at Ramayan Cafe, known for its fusion of traditional and contemporary dishes inspired by the epic Ramayana.
Ramayan Cafe is located in the market area, offering a unique dining experience with a thematic touch.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
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