Nature and Culture Immersion in Banaras, India

Day 1: Exploring the Ghats

Varanasi, India

6:30AM

Sunrise Boat Ride on the Ganges

Start your day with a serene boat ride on the Ganges River, soaking in the spiritual essence of Varanasi as the sun rises, illuminating the ghats.
Take a local boat from Dasashwamedh Ghat for a breathtaking experience.
INR500, 1.5 hours

8:00AM

Breakfast at Kashi Chaat Bhandar

Enjoy a traditional Varanasi breakfast of Aloo-Tikki Chaat and freshly squeezed lime soda at the famous Kashi Chaat Bhandar.
Walk to the eatery located near the ghats.
INR200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Explore the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and witness the spiritual activities around the temple.
A short walk from Kashi Chaat Bhandar.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Stroll through the Old City

Wander through the narrow lanes of the Old City, experiencing the vibrant culture and local life of Varanasi, enriched with history and tradition.
Walk around the old lanes that lead straght into the heart of Varanasi.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Mangi Ferra Restaurant

Savor a meal of Biryani and Lassi at Mangi Ferra, a local spot known for its delicious offerings.
Head to Mangi Ferra, a short auto-rickshaw ride from the Old City.
INR400, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Sarnath

Journey to Sarnath, where Buddha gave his first sermon, and explore the historical ruins and museums dedicated to Buddhism.
Take a taxi or auto-rickshaw from the restaurant; it's about a 30-minute ride.
INR50 (local transport + INR100 for museum entry), 3 hours

5:30PM

Explore the Cafe Culture

Stop by the Benaras Café for some refreshing tea and banter with fellow travelers while relishing the ambiance.
Travel back to Varanasi city center by auto-rickshaw.
INR250, 1 hour

7:00PM

Ganga Aarti Ceremony

Join the spectacular Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat as the sun sets, surrounded by chantings and the beauty of the illuminated ghats.
Easily walk to Dashashwamedh Ghat from the cafe.
Free, 1.5 hours

8:30PM

Dinner at Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe

End your day with a delicious meal at Pizzeria Vaatika, known for its wood-fired pizzas and a lovely garden setting.
Just a short walk from the ghat.
INR600, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Discoveries

Varanasi, India

7:00AM

Yoga Session

Begin your day with a yoga session by the Ganges, connecting with nature and finding inner peace.
Join a local yoga class at a nearby ghat.
INR300, 1 hour

8:30AM

Breakfast at The Bread Factory

Refuel with a hearty breakfast featuring freshly baked croissants and coffee at The Bread Factory.
Take a short auto-rickshaw ride to the café.
INR400, 1 hour

9:30AM

Varanasi Silk Weaving Workshop

Engage in a local silk weaving workshop and learn about the world-renowned Banarasi silk fabric, creating a handmade piece.
Organize a workshop through local tourism offices or hotels.
INR600, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Blue Lassi

Enjoy a delightful lassi and a few snacks at The Blue Lassi, famous for its variety of flavored lassis.
It's a short walk from the weaving workshop.
INR200, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit Banaras Hindu University (BHU)

Explore the vast campus of BHU, taking in its beautiful architecture and cultural significance.
Take an auto-rickshaw from The Blue Lassi to BHU, a 15-minute ride.
Free, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum

Discover rich collections of Indian art and artifacts at this dedicated museum within BHU.
A short walk within the BHU campus.
INR100, 1 hour

3:30PM

Coffee at the University Cafe

Take a break at the University Cafe, enjoying a cup of coffee and the peaceful campus atmosphere.
Walk back to the cafe after exploring the museum.
INR150, 1 hour

4:30PM

Exploration of Local Markets

Wander through the bustling local markets, experiencing the vibrant culture of Banaras and shopping for souvenirs.
Catch an auto-rickshaw to the nearest market area.
Free to explore (cost may vary for shopping), 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Dum Pukht

Cap your journey in Varanasi with a sumptuous dinner of Mughlai cuisine at Dum Pukht, offering an elegant setting and exquisite dishes.
Head to the restaurant via auto-rickshaw.
INR1,200, 1.5 hours
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