4-Day Relaxation and Cultural Immersion Itinerary in Varanasi, India

Day 1: Cultural Exploration

Varanasi, India on August 15, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Kashi Cafe

Start your day at The Kashi Cafe with a delicious assortment of traditional Indian breakfast dishes like poha and masala chai.
Walk or take a local rickshaw to the cafe.
INR 500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Explore the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple, a major Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, and soak in the spiritual ambiance.
It's a short walk from the cafe.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Ghats

Stroll along the banks of the Ganges River, observing the rituals and routines of the locals as you take in the unique architecture.
Continue walking along the river bank.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Brown Bread Bakery

Enjoy a hearty meal at Brown Bread Bakery, known for its homemade organic food and cozy atmosphere.
Return to the main streets and take a rickshaw to the bakery.
INR 600, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Sarnath

Travel to Sarnath, the site of Buddha’s first sermon, to visit the Dhamek Stupa and the archaeological museum.
Hire a taxi or take a rickshaw to Sarnath.
INR 200 (entry fee for museum), 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Sunset Ganga Aarti

Return to Varanasi for the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Take a taxi back to the ghat.
Free, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at The Savor Varanasi

End your day with a delightful meal at The Savor, which features local Varanasi cuisine.
A short rickshaw ride from the ghat.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Art & History

Varanasi, India on August 16, 2024

8:30AM

Breakfast at Bread of Life

Fuel up with a gourmet breakfast, including fresh-baked bread and pastries paired with artisanal coffee.
Walk or take a short rickshaw ride.
INR 400, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Banaras Hindu University

Take a guided tour of this prestigious university, known for its beautiful campuses and historical significance.
A short taxi ride.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Visit The Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum

Explore a collection of Indian paintings, sculptures, and artifacts at this renowned museum.
Adjacent to the university; walk to the museum.
INR 100, 1 hour

1:30PM

Lunch at Varanasi Kitchen

Taste modern interpretations of classic Indian dishes in a vibrant setting at Varanasi Kitchen.
Short rickshaw ride.
INR 700, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the Silk Weaving Workshops

Discover the art of silk weaving that Varanasi is famous for with a visit to local workshops.
Taxi ride to the weaving district.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Assi Ghat

Spend some leisure time at Assi Ghat, enjoying the tranquil environment with a refreshing drink.
Take a taxi back to Assi Ghat.
INR 200 for refreshments, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Uttar Pradesh Restaurant

Savor traditional North Indian dishes amid welcoming decor.
Rickshaw ride from Assi Ghat.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Culinary Delights

Varanasi, India on August 17, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Riva

Start with a wholesome breakfast featuring local fruits and baked goods while enjoying views of the river.
Walk to the cafe from your hotel.
INR 500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Cooking Class

Join a cooking class and learn how to prepare traditional Varanasi dishes from a local chef.
Walk or arrange nearby transport to the cooking school.
INR 2,000, 3 hours

1:00PM

Enjoy your prepared lunch

Relish the dishes you cooked during the class, sharing stories with fellow food lovers.
On-site at the cooking school.
Included in cooking class, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Vishalakshi Temple

Visit the ancient Vishalakshi Temple, dedicated to the goddess Vishalakshi, offering splendid views of the city.
Short rickshaw ride from the cooking school.
Free, 1 hour

4:30PM

Visit Bharat Mata Temple

Marvel at the unique temple dedicated to Mother India, featuring a relief map of India made from marble.
- Continue with a rickshaw ride.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Keshari Restaurant

Indulge in a fusion of local and contemporary cuisine at Keshari, a trendy eatery in Varanasi.
Take a short taxi to the restaurant.
INR 900, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Relaxation & Reflection

Varanasi, India on August 18, 2024

9:00AM

Breakfast at Shri Café

Begin your last day with a leisurely breakfast featuring pancakes and fresh fruit juices.
Walk to the café along the river.
INR 500, 1 hour

10:30AM

Boat Ride on the Ganges

Experience a peaceful boat ride on the Ganges, reflecting on your journey while enjoying serene views.
Board the boat from Dashashwamedh Ghat.
INR 600, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Visit the Tulsi Manas Temple

Explore this striking temple, built in memory of Tulsidas, with beautiful gardens surrounding it.
A 10-minute rickshaw ride.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at The Gateway Hotel's Varuna Restaurant

Savor a luxurious lunch with diverse Indian and international dishes served in a sophisticated setting.
Short rickshaw ride from the temple.
INR 1,200, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Shopping for Souvenirs

Spend your afternoon shopping for handcrafted items like silk sarees and brassware in the local markets.
Take a taxi to the market area.
Free (bear in mind additional costs for purchases), 2 hours

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Dum Pukht

Finish your Varanasi journey with a sumptuous meal at Dum Pukht, renowned for its royal Awadhi cuisine.
Rickshaw ride to the restaurant.
INR 1,500, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability