3-Day Enchanting Itinerary in Banaras - Explore the Spiritual Heart of India

Day 1: Cultural Exploration

Banaras, India on August 15, 2024

7:30AM

Breakfast at Kashi Chat Bhandar

Start your day in Banaras with a delicious and affordable breakfast at Kashi Chat Bhandar, famous for its aloo kachoris and jalebis.
Walk to the nearby Ganga Ghat after breakfast.
INR 150, 1 hour

9:00AM

Morning Boat Ride on the Ganges

Experience the spiritual essence of Banaras with a serene boat ride on the Ganges, witnessing the morning rituals along the ghats.
Board the boat from Jain Ghat.
INR 300, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Explore the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most revered temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its stunning architecture.
Head south to the temple from the Ganges.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Varuna Restaurant

Savor a traditional North Indian thali at Varuna Restaurant, a local favorite offering a variety of dishes.
Take a rickshaw to Varuna Restaurant.
INR 600, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore the Banaras Hindu University

Stroll through the expansive grounds of the Banaras Hindu University, famous for its beautiful architecture and the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum.
Rickshaw from Varuna Restaurant to the university.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Sarnath

Take a rickshaw to Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon, and visit the archaeological museum and the Dhamek Stupa.
Head northeast to Sarnath.
INR 200, 3 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Pehli Mahal

Dine at Pehli Mahal, renowned for its rooftop views and delectable Indian cuisine, the perfect setting to reflect on your day.
Return to Banaras for dinner.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

9:00PM

Ganga Aarti Ceremony

Conclude the day with the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat, a spiritual experience that showcases devotion and beauty.
Walk to Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 2: Historical Intrigues

Banaras, India on August 16, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Bread of Life

Enjoy a delightful breakfast of fresh bread and pastries at Bread of Life, a popular café among locals and tourists alike.
Short walk to the café.
INR 300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Ramnagar Fort

Explore the historical Ramnagar Fort, located on the opposite bank of the Ganges, offering insights into the royal heritage of Banaras.
Take a boat across the river to the fort.
INR 100, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Vishnu Tea Shop

Savor some local flavors at Vishnu Tea Shop, where you can enjoy steaming chai and a selection of traditional snacks.
Return to Banaras and walk to the tea shop.
INR 250, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Manikarnika Ghat

Wander around Manikarnika Ghat, one of the oldest cremation ghats, and understand its profound cultural significance.
Walk to the ghat from the tea shop.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Tulsi Manas Temple

Visit the Tulsi Manas Temple, dedicated to Lord Rama, known for its beautiful marble architecture and peaceful ambiance.
Rickshaw to the temple.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Evening Coffee at Cafe Loco

Take a break at Cafe Loco, where you can enjoy some delightful cakes and coffee, perfect for a mid-afternoon recharge.
Travel back to the city center via rickshaw.
INR 400, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Great Indian Thali

Experience a lavish Indian thali at The Great Indian Thali, showcasing a variety of regional dishes and flavors.
Rickshaw to the restaurant.
INR 700, 1.5 hours

9:00PM

Night Stroll along the Ghats

Enjoy a peaceful night stroll along the ghats, where you can reflect on the day's adventures and witness the tranquility of the Ganges at night.
Walk back to the ghats.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 3: Spiritual and Local Experiences

Banaras, India on August 17, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Riva

Start your day with breakfast at Cafe Riva, where you can enjoy a selection of sandwiches, fresh juices, and more in a cozy setting.
Walk to the café from your accommodation.
INR 350, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Durga Temple

Explore the ancient and vibrant Durga Temple, known for its strong worship and beautiful architecture surrounded by lush greenery.
Rickshaw to the temple.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Silk Weaving Workshop Visit

Experience the traditional craft of silk weaving, and learn about Banaras’ famous Banarasi sarees at a local workshop.
Rickshaw to the workshop.
INR 200, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Deena Chat Bhandar

Indulge in local street food at Deena Chat Bhandar, renowned for its chaat and other quick bites that are sure to delight your taste buds.
Return to the city center to the restaurant.
INR 300, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Gyanvapi Mosque

Visit the historical Gyanvapi Mosque, an important religious site that offers insight into the architectural blend of Hindu and Islamic influences.
Rickshaw to the mosque.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Shopping at Visheshwarganj Market

Spend your afternoon shopping for souvenirs, local handicrafts, and Banarasi silk at Visheshwarganj Market, immersing yourself in local culture.
Rickshaw to the market.
Variable, 2 hours

6:30PM

Farewell Dinner at Brown Bread Bakery

Enjoy a heartfelt farewell dinner at Brown Bread Bakery, famous for its health-conscious dishes and cozy atmosphere, perfect for concluding your Banaras adventure.
Rickshaw to the restaurant.
INR 700, 1.5 hours
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