Sacred Cities Road Trip

Day 1: Exploring Vrindavan

Vrindavan, India

8:00AM

Visit Banke Bihari Temple

Start your day with a visit to the vibrant Banke Bihari Temple, known for its beautiful architecture and spiritual atmosphere.
The temple is located in the heart of Vrindavan and can be easily reached by walking from most accommodations.
Free entry, 1-2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Govardhan Hill

Head to Govardhan Hill for a scenic hike surrounded by stunning natural beauty and spiritual significance.
Govardhan Hill is a short drive from Vrindavan city centre.
Free entry, 2-3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at MVT Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious vegetarian meal at MVT Restaurant, known for its organic and locally sourced ingredients.
Located in Vrindavan, this restaurant offers a peaceful dining experience.
INR 500, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit ISKCON Temple

Spend the evening at the ISKCON Temple, attending the evening aarti ceremony and exploring the spiritual teachings of the Hare Krishna movement.
ISKCON Temple is a short walk from the city centre.
Donation based, 1-2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Govinda's

Indulge in a vegetarian feast at Govinda's, a popular restaurant serving sattvic cuisine in a peaceful setting.
Located near ISKCON Temple, Govinda's is a short walk away.
INR 800, 1-2 hours
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Day 2: Ayodhya Heritage Tour

Ayodhya, India

9:00AM

Visit Ram Janmabhoomi

Begin your day by exploring the historic site of Ram Janmabhoomi, a significant pilgrimage destination for Hindus.
Ram Janmabhoomi is easily accessible by road from the city centre.
Free entry, 1-2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ayodhya Cafe

Enjoy a traditional Awadhi meal at Ayodhya Cafe, offering authentic flavours of the region in a cosy setting.
Located in the heart of Ayodhya, Ayodhya Cafe is a great spot for lunch.
INR 400, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Hanuman Garhi

Visit the ancient Hanuman Garhi temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman and known for its architectural beauty and spiritual significance.
Hanuman Garhi is a short drive from the city centre.
Free entry, 1-2 hours

4:00PM

Sightseeing at Kanak Bhawan

Discover the ornately decorated Kanak Bhawan, a temple dedicated to Lord Ram and Goddess Sita, showcasing intricate artwork and religious devotion.
Kanak Bhawan is located within Ayodhya and can be reached easily by road.
Free entry, 1-2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Gufa Restaurant

Enjoy a relaxed dinner at Gufa Restaurant, known for its fusion of traditional and contemporary dishes in a cosy underground setting.
Gufa Restaurant is a unique dining spot in Ayodhya, perfect for an evening meal.
INR 600, 1-2 hours
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Day 3: Spiritual Exploration in Varanasi

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Morning Boat Ride on River Ganges

Embark on a serene boat ride along the sacred River Ganges, witnessing the morning rituals and spiritual activities along the ghats of Varanasi.
Boat rides can be easily arranged at the Dasaswamedh Ghat or Assi Ghat.
INR 200 per person, 1-2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Explore the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and immerse yourself in the divine energy of one of the holiest sites in Hinduism.
The temple is located in the heart of Varanasi and is easily accessible by walking or cycle rickshaw.
Free entry, 1-2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Open Hand Cafe

Enjoy a healthy and organic meal at Open Hand Cafe, overlooking the River Ganges and serving delicious vegetarian dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.
Situated near the ghats, Open Hand Cafe provides a peaceful dining experience.
INR 500, 1 hour

4:00PM

Explore Sarnath

Visit the ancient site of Sarnath, where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon, and explore the peaceful surroundings and Buddhist monuments.
Sarnath is a short drive from Varanasi and offers a tranquil escape from the city.
Free entry, 2-3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Baati Chokha

Indulge in a traditional Bihari meal at Baati Chokha, known for its authentic flavours and rustic ambience.
Baati Chokha is a popular dining spot in Varanasi serving regional delicacies.
INR 700, 1-2 hours
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Day 4: Cultural Immersion in Varanasi

Varanasi, India

9:00AM

Visit Ramnagar Fort

Explore the historical Ramnagar Fort, a riverside fortification showcasing the rich heritage and architectural grandeur of Varanasi.
Ramnagar Fort is located across the Ganges and can be accessed by boat or road.
INR 100, 1-2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe

Enjoy a fusion meal at Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe, offering a mix of Italian and Indian flavours in a garden setting near the Ganges.
Located close to the ghats, Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe provides a picturesque dining experience.
INR 600, 1 hour

2:00PM

Shopping at Vishwanath Gali

Explore the bustling Vishwanath Gali for traditional Banarasi silk sarees, jewellery, and handicrafts as souvenirs of your trip.
Vishwanath Gali is a vibrant market street near Kashi Vishwanath Temple, perfect for shopping.
Varies based on purchases, 2 hours

5:00PM

Attend Ganga Aarti at Dasaswamedh Ghat

Witness the mesmerising Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dasaswamedh Ghat, where priests perform rituals with fire and incense as offerings to the River Ganges.
Join the crowds at Dasaswamedh Ghat for this spiritual experience.
Free entry, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Shree Cafe

Enjoy a rooftop dinner at Shree Cafe, offering panoramic views of the ghats and delicious vegetarian dishes in a serene setting.
Located near the ghats, Shree Cafe is a perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploration.
INR 800, 1-2 hours
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Day 5: Nature Retreat

Varanasi, India

9:00AM

Visit Chandra Prabha Wildlife Sanctuary

Embark on a day trip to Chandra Prabha Wildlife Sanctuary, a haven for nature lovers with lush greenery, waterfalls, and diverse flora and fauna.
Chandra Prabha Wildlife Sanctuary is located a few hours' drive from Varanasi and offers scenic beauty.
INR 200 per person, Half-day trip

1:00PM

Picnic Lunch at the Sanctuary

Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the natural beauty of the sanctuary, surrounded by serene landscapes and fresh air.
Pack a lunch or arrange for a meal at one of the designated picnic spots within the sanctuary.
INR 300, 1 hour

3:00PM

Nature Walk and Bird Watching

Explore the sanctuary on a guided nature walk, spotting birds and wildlife while immersing yourself in the tranquillity of the surroundings.
Guided nature walks are available within the sanctuary to enhance your wildlife experience.
INR 100 per person, 2-3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Nature's Nest

Relish a farm-to-table dinner at Nature's Nest, an eco-friendly restaurant serving organic dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.
Nature's Nest is located near the sanctuary and offers a sustainable dining experience amidst nature.
INR 700, 1-2 hours
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Day 6: Cultural Delights

Varanasi, India

9:00AM

Visit Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum

Explore the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, housing a rich collection of art, sculptures, and historical artefacts showcasing the cultural heritage of Varanasi.
Located within the Banaras Hindu University campus, the museum is easily accessible by road.
INR 100, 1-2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Brown Bread Bakery

Enjoy a healthy meal at The Brown Bread Bakery, known for its organic breads, salads, and sandwiches in a charming cafe setting.
Situated near Assi Ghat, The Brown Bread Bakery offers a relaxed dining experience.
INR 500, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Weaver's Village

Visit a local weaver's village to witness the craftsmanship of Banarasi sarees being handwoven, and learn about the traditional art passed down through generations.
Take a short drive to the outskirts of Varanasi to experience the artistry of the weavers firsthand.
Free entry, 2 hours

5:00PM

Sunset at Assi Ghat

Witness a mesmerising sunset at Assi Ghat, one of the oldest ghats in Varanasi, where locals and visitors gather to enjoy the evening prayers and rituals.
Assi Ghat is a short walk from the city centre, offering a tranquil setting for sunset views.
Free entry, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Ksheer Sagar

Indulge in a royal dining experience at Ksheer Sagar, known for its Mughlai and Awadhi cuisine in a regal ambience reminiscent of a bygone era.
Located near Dashashwamedh Ghat, Ksheer Sagar offers a fine dining experience with a touch of history.
INR 1000, 1-2 hours
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Day 7: Final Day in Varanasi

Varanasi, India

9:00AM

Yoga Session at Parmarth Niketan

Start your day with a rejuvenating yoga session at Parmarth Niketan, a renowned ashram offering daily yoga classes by the Ganges.
Parmarth Niketan is located near the ghats and welcomes visitors for yoga sessions and spiritual activities.
INR 300, 1-2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Durga Temple

Explore the vibrant Durga Temple, dedicated to Goddess Durga and adorned with colourful statues and intricate carvings, reflecting the essence of Varanasi's spiritual culture.
Durga Temple is located in the city centre and is easily accessible by foot or cycle rickshaw.
Free entry, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Vaatika Cafe

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Vaatika Cafe, known for its serene garden setting and delicious vegetarian dishes made with organic ingredients.
Located near the ghats, Vaatika Cafe offers a peaceful dining experience amidst nature.
INR 600, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Ramnagar Market

Stroll through Ramnagar Market for a cultural shopping experience, where you can find traditional handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs.
Ramnagar Market is a bustling hub of local commerce and offers a glimpse into the daily life of Varanasi.
Varies based on purchases, 2 hours

6:00PM

Final Dinner at Banares Haveli

End your day with a memorable dinner at Banares Haveli, a heritage restaurant offering authentic Varanasi cuisine in a traditional haveli setting.
Located near the ghats, Banares Haveli provides a cultural dining experience with live music and cultural performances.
INR 800, 1-2 hours
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