4-Day Cultural Journey Through Kashi (Varanasi), India

Day 1: Exploring the Ghats

Varanasi, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Kashi Chat Bhandar

Start your day with the famous Kashi Chat Bhandar, where you can relish scrumptious Aloo Tikki.
Located in the heart of the city, easily accessible from most hotels.
INR 150, 1 hour

8:30AM

Morning Walk along the Ghats

Stroll along Manikarnika Ghat and Dashashwamedh Ghat, experiencing the spiritual atmosphere as locals perform their morning rituals.
Walk along the river and follow the ghats southwards.
Free, 2 hours

10:30AM

Visit to Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Explore one of the most sacred temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, a key landmark in Varanasi.
The temple is situated near Manikarnika Ghat.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Varuna Restaurant

Enjoy authentic North Indian cuisine with a view of the Varuna River, trying their delectable Paneer Tikka.
Just a short rickshaw ride from the temple.
INR 500, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Sarnath

Take a short trip to Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon; explore the ruins and museums.
Sarnath is about 10 km from Varanasi; opt for a rickshaw or local taxi.
INR 200 (entry fee), 3 hours

5:00PM

Evening Ganga Aarti

Experience the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat as the sun sets behind the horizon.
Head back to the ghat area, take a position for a good view.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe

Wind down your day with a fresh pizza in the charming ambiance of this café overlooking the Ganges.
Located just a short walk from the ghats.
INR 500, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Immersion

Varanasi, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Brown Bread Bakery

Savor a healthy breakfast of freshly baked bread and organic spreads at this eco-friendly café.
A short rickshaw ride from your hotel.
INR 300, 1 hour

8:30AM

Shawl Weaving Workshop

Participate in a shawl weaving workshop and learn how exquisite Banarasi fabrics are made.
Pre-book a workshop in the city’s textile workshops.
INR 700, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Banaras Hindu University

Next, explore the campus of one of the oldest universities in India and admire its impressive architecture.
Easily accessible by rickshaw.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Kashi's Famous Lassi

Enjoy lunch while sipping on their famous lassi—a refreshing yogurt drink to energize your afternoon.
A walking distance from the university.
INR 200, 1 hour

2:00PM

Ramnagar Fort Tour

Take a tour of the Ramnagar Fort, the royal residence of the Maharaja of Banaras, and immerse in its history.
A short boat ride across the river followed by walking distance to the fort.
INR 250 (entry fee), 2 hours

4:30PM

Boat Ride on the Ganges

Enjoy a scenic boat ride on the Ganges, witnessing the city from a different perspective.
Catch a boat from the ghat area, local boatmen are available.
INR 500, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Shore Escape

Enjoy a delightful dinner at this riverside restaurant with a mix of Indian and continental dishes.
Located near the ghats, easily walkable.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Spiritual Experience

Varanasi, India

6:00AM

Yoga Session on the Ghat

Start the day with tranquility by joining a yoga session at the riverbank as the sun rises over the Ganges.
Head to the ghat area for organized morning yoga classes.
INR 500, 1 hour

7:30AM

Breakfast at Aum Café

Enjoy a wholesome breakfast with smoothie bowls and health-conscious choices at Aum Café.
Within close walking distance from the yoga area.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Tulsi Manas Mandir

Explore the beautiful Tulsi Manas Temple, dedicated to Lord Rama, known for its stunning marble architecture.
A short rickshaw ride will take you there.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore the narrow lanes of Varanasi

Lose yourself in the labyrinthine streets as you discover local shops selling silk and handicrafts.
Walking through the Old City is the best way to explore.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Blue Lassi

Refresh with traditional lassi in various flavors, paired with some light vegetarian snacks.
Located in the heart of the Old City.
INR 150, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit to Bharat Mata Mandir

Marvel at the unique temple that features a map of India carved in marble.
A 10-minute rickshaw ride from the lunch spot.
Free, 1 hour

3:30PM

Attend a Music Workshop

Dive into the culture with a traditional Indian music workshop with a local musician.
Pre-arranged through local schools or cultural centers.
INR 800, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Cafe Cafe

Relax and unwind with a mix of Indian and international culinary options at this comfortable café.
Short rickshaw ride or a pleasant walk.
INR 500, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Final Explorations

Varanasi, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at The Greenhouse

Start your day with organic and health-focused breakfast options at The Greenhouse.
Easily reachable on foot from most central accommodations.
INR 350, 1 hour

8:30AM

Visit to Manasarovar Lake

Enjoy a serene morning at Manasarovar Lake, a peaceful spot just outside Varanasi perfect for reflection.
Take a rickshaw, about 5 km from the city center.
Free, 2 hours

10:30AM

Explore the Ganges Riverfront

Walk along the riverfront, taking in the tranquil atmosphere and beauty of the Ganges.
Accessible on foot from the lake.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Baati Chokha

Relish traditional Bihari cuisine at this popular restaurant known for its authenticity and taste.
Rickshaw ride back to the city center will take about 15 minutes.
INR 400, 1 hour

1:30PM

Shop for Banarasi Silk

Pick up some exquisite Banarasi silk sarees or shawls from local vendors as souvenirs.
Explore shops around the Dashashwamedh Ghat area.
Varies, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Assi Ghat

Relax at Assi Ghat, a vibrant spot to unwind, watch local artists, and enjoy the riverside.
A short walk from Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Taste of India

Enjoy your last meal in Varanasi at this restaurant famous for its kachoris and traditional Indian sweets.
Easily reachable by rickshaw.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
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