Cultural Immersion in Varanasi

Day 1: River Ganges Exploration

Varanasi, India

6:00AM

Morning Boat Ride

Start your day with a peaceful boat ride on the Ganges River to witness the morning rituals and ceremonies along the ghats.
Head to Dashashwamedh Ghat for boat rides which are easily available in the early hours.
INR 200, 2 hours

9:00AM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Explore one of the most famous temples in Varanasi, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and experience the spiritual atmosphere.
The temple is located near Dashashwamedh Ghat, a short walk from the river.
Free entry, donations accepted, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Deena Chat Bhandar

Indulge in local street food specialties like chaat and kachori at this popular eatery.
Located in Godowlia, easily accessible from the temple.
INR 150, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Old City

Stroll through the narrow lanes of Varanasi's old city, witnessing the vibrant markets, ancient buildings, and traditional way of life.
Begin at Vishwanath Gali and let the winding paths guide you.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Baati Chokha

Enjoy a hearty dinner with authentic Bihari cuisine at this local favorite restaurant.
Located in Lahurabir, a short walk from the old city.
INR 300, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Sarnath Day Trip

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Visit Sarnath

Embark on a day trip to Sarnath, an important Buddhist site where Lord Buddha first taught the Dharma.
Take a taxi or hire a local guide for the 30-minute journey from Varanasi to Sarnath.
INR 500 (including guide), 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Sarnath Cafe

Enjoy a peaceful meal amidst the serene surroundings of Sarnath before heading back to Varanasi.
The cafe is located within the Sarnath complex.
INR 250, 1 hour

3:00PM

Return to Varanasi

Head back to Varanasi and relax for the evening after a day of cultural exploration.
Take a taxi or public transport back to Varanasi.
INR 300, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe

Enjoy a fusion of Italian and Indian flavors at this cozy cafe in Varanasi.
Located near Assi Ghat, a great spot for evening relaxation.
INR 400, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Local Markets and Temples

Varanasi, India

9:00AM

Shop at Thatheri Bazaar

Explore the bustling Thatheri Bazaar, known for its brass and copperware, perfect for unique souvenirs.
Located near Vishwanath Gali, easily accessible from the main ghats.
Varies based on purchases, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Shree Cafe

Savor a vegetarian meal with a view of the Ganges at this rooftop cafe offering a serene dining experience.
Located near Manikarnika Ghat, a short walk from the market.
INR 300, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Durga Temple

Explore the vibrant and colorful Durga Temple, dedicated to the Hindu goddess Durga, and admire its unique architectural style.
Located in the old city, a short distance from the market.
Free entry, donations accepted, 1 hour

6:00PM

Attend Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat

Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at the main ghat, a spiritual experience with prayers, music, and light offerings to the river.
Head to Dashashwamedh Ghat in the evening to secure a good viewing spot.
Free, optional donations, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Blue Lassi

End your day with a sweet treat at Blue Lassi, a renowned spot for delicious lassi flavors in Varanasi.
Located in the old city, near Dashashwamedh Ghat.
INR 100, 1 hour
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Day 4: Temple Trail

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Visit Tulsi Manas Temple

Start your day with a visit to Tulsi Manas Temple, known for its beautiful marble carvings depicting the Ramayana epic.
Located near Durga Temple, a short walk from the old city.
Free entry, donations accepted, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore New Vishwanath Temple

Discover the modern marvel of New Vishwanath Temple, also known as Birla Temple, showcasing intricate designs and architecture.
Located in BHU campus, accessible by rickshaw or taxi.
Free entry, donations accepted, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Great Kabab Factory

Indulge in a lavish North Indian lunch buffet with a variety of kebabs and traditional dishes at this renowned restaurant.
Located near the BHU campus, a short walk from the temple.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Bharat Mata Temple

Pay homage to Mother India at Bharat Mata Temple, a unique shrine dedicated to the spirit of India as a motherland.
Located in the heart of Varanasi, near the Vishwanath Gali area.
Free entry, donations accepted, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Pizzeria Bella Vista

Enjoy a delightful dinner with wood-fired pizzas and pasta at this cozy restaurant overlooking the city.
Located near Assi Ghat, offering a serene dining experience.
INR 500, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Saree Shopping and Ghats

Varanasi, India

10:00AM

Shop for Sarees at Gyanvapi Market

Explore the vibrant Gyanvapi Market known for its exquisite collection of Banarasi sarees, perfect for a traditional souvenir.
Located near Vishwanath Temple, a short walk from the ghats.
Varies based on purchases, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Open Hand Cafe

Enjoy a healthy and organic meal at Open Hand Cafe, offering a range of vegetarian and vegan options in a peaceful setting.
Located near Manikarnika Ghat, a short walk from the market.
INR 400, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Assi Ghat

Visit the peaceful Assi Ghat, known for its tranquility and spiritual ambiance, perfect for introspection and relaxation.
Located at the southern end of the main ghats, easily accessible from the market area.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Brown Bread Bakery

Indulge in a variety of freshly baked goods and international cuisine at this charming bakery near the ghats.
Located near Assi Ghat, a perfect spot for dinner with a view.
INR 300, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Cultural Workshops and Music

Varanasi, India

9:00AM

Attend Silk Weaving Workshop

Immerse yourself in the traditional art of Banarasi silk weaving with a hands-on workshop at a local textile center.
Book a workshop in advance at a recommended center in Varanasi.
INR 500, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Pizzeria Vatika

Savor wood-fired pizzas and Italian delights for lunch at this cozy pizzeria in Varanasi.
Located near Assi Ghat, offering a relaxed dining experience.
INR 400, 1 hour

3:00PM

Attend Music Concert at Ghat

Experience the soulful melodies of traditional Indian music performed live at one of the ghats, immersing yourself in the local cultural scene.
Check for scheduled concerts at popular ghats like Assi Ghat or Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Free entry, optional donations, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Ksheer Sagar

Indulge in a vegetarian feast with a mix of North and South Indian specialties at this renowned restaurant in Varanasi.
Located near the main ghats, offering a diverse menu for all tastes.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Benaras Hindu University and Departure

Varanasi, India

9:00AM

Explore Benaras Hindu University

Visit the sprawling BHU campus, known for its educational excellence and architectural beauty, including the Bharat Kala Bhavan museum.
Spend the morning exploring the various departments, museums, and green spaces within the university.
Free entry, donations accepted for museums, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Madhu Milan Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional thali meal with a mix of regional flavors at this popular restaurant near BHU.
Located within walking distance from the university campus.
INR 350, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit BHU Monkey Park

Explore the Monkey Park within the university campus, where you can observe playful monkeys in their natural habitat.
Take a leisurely stroll through the park and enjoy the wildlife encounters.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Canton Royale

End your Varanasi journey with a sumptuous dinner at Canton Royale, offering a blend of Chinese and Indian cuisine for a delightful farewell meal.
Located near Lanka, a short distance from BHU.
INR 700, 1.5 hours
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