3-Day Cultural and Culinary Escape in Varanasi

Day 1: Explore Spiritual Varanasi

Varanasi, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at Dilliwala

Start your day with a hearty aloo paratha and chai at Dilliwala, famed for its local breakfast fare.
Located nearby the Ghats, walking is ideal to reach Dilliwala.
INR 150, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Experience the spiritual ambiance of the revered Kashi Vishwanath Temple, a must-see landmark in Varanasi.
A short walk from Dilliwala, it's easily accessible on foot.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Ghats

Wander along the ghats, where you can see daily rituals and the essence of life and death coexist.
Stroll along the Ganges; the ghats stretch along the river.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Kashi Chat Bhandar

Savor authentic chaats, like kachoris and pani puri, at Kashi Chat Bhandar, a local favorite.
A cycle rickshaw ride from the riverfront will get you there in about 10 minutes.
INR 200, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Sarnath

Take a trip to Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon after enlightenment; a hub for history enthusiasts.
Catch a local bus to Sarnath from nearby bus stops.
INR 30, 2 hours

6:00PM

Ganga Aarti Ceremony

Experience the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat, where the devotion to Ganga River comes alive.
Walk back to Dashashwamedh Ghat; it’s a lively area and easily reachable.
Free, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Vishnu Tea Emporium

End your day with an assortment of thalis at Vishnu Tea Emporium, perfect for sampling local cuisine.
A short walk from the ghat; follow the crowd.
INR 300, 1 hour
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Day 2: Cultural Intricacies

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Ashish Cafe

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast of masala dosa and fresh fruit juice at the charming Ashish Cafe.
Walk from your accommodation, located near the ghats.
INR 200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Benaras Hindu University (BHU)

Explore the vast campus of BHU, where the architecture reflects rich Indian culture and tradition.
Take a cycle rickshaw to the university, about a 15-minute ride.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum

Discover ancient artifacts and art at the Bharat Kala Bhavan, perfect for history buffs.
Located on the BHU campus, a short walk from earlier visit.
INR 20, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Brown Bread Bakery

Indulge in freshly baked goods and wholesome vegetarian meals at this eco-friendly bakery.
A short rickshaw ride will take you to this popular spot.
INR 250, 1 hour

3:00PM

Take a Cooking Class

Learn the secrets of Indian cuisine with a cooking class, perfect for culinary enthusiasts.
Coordinate with a local cooking class provider for pick-up.
INR 800, 3 hours

6:00PM

Evening Walk Along the Ganges

Stroll alongside the river, absorbing the tranquility and watching the sun dip below the horizon.
Walk back to the ghats from the cooking class location.
Free, 1 hour

8:00PM

Dinner at The Banaras Dharmshala

Experience a wholesome meal at The Banaras Dharmshala, renowned for authentic vegetarian dishes.
It’s a short walk from the ghats.
INR 300, 1 hour
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Day 3: Nature and Local Communities

Varanasi, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at Cafe Coffee Day

Begin your day with a quick breakfast and a cup of coffee at Cafe Coffee Day.
Easily reachable by cycle rickshaw in about 10 minutes.
INR 150, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Ramnagar Fort

Explore the majestic Ramnagar Fort, with views of the Ganges and remarkable architecture, very synoptic of Varanasi.
Take a local bus to Ramnagar, approximately 30 minutes travel.
INR 20, 2 hours

11:30AM

Nature Walk in Sarnath

Indulge in a peaceful nature walk surrounding the Sarnath archaeological site, surrounded by lush greenery.
Return to Sarnath via the same bus route.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Great Indian Kebab Factory

Rejuvenate with delicious kebabs at this affordably luxurious spot, known for its delectable dishes.
Cycle back to Varanasi City, around 30 minutes.
INR 500, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Local Markets

Wander through the vibrant local markets nearby the ghats; the sights, sounds, and aromas are captivating.
Easily accessible on foot within the old city area.
Free (shopping optional), 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Visit the Manikarnika Ghat

Observe the traditional cremation rituals at Manikarnika, offering a unique perspective on life and death.
Walk there from the local markets, around a 15-minute stroll.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Rani Bagh Restaurant

Conclude your trip with a delightful dinner at Rani Bagh, renowned for its local specialties and homely atmosphere.
Head back towards your accommodation; it's well known and not far.
INR 400, 1 hour
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