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7 Days of Adventure and Cultural Exploration in Varanasi, India

Viewed by 52 travelers

Day 1: Cultural Immersion

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Kashi Chat Bhandar

Start your day with the famous Kachori Sabzi and chai, a traditional Varanasi breakfast that energizes you for the adventures ahead.
Located near Dashashwamedh Ghat.
INR150, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Sarnath

Visit the site where Buddha gave his first sermon, including the Dhamek Stupa and the Archaeological Museum that hold incredible historical significance.
Take a taxi from Varanasi to Sarnath (10 km, 30 mins).
INR300, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Twelve Kitchen

Enjoy a vegetarian thali featuring local flavours and ingredients, providing a hearty lunch that prepares you for more exploration.
Return to Varanasi (30 mins).
INR500, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Admire the intricate architecture and spiritual atmosphere at one of the most revered temples dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Walking distance from the restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Ganga Aarti Ceremony

Experience the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, where thousands gather to witness the evening worship of the river.
Just a short walk from the temple.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Varanasi, Brown Bread Bakery

Unwind with delightful wood-fired pizzas and fresh salads that provide a unique twist to local dining options.
Short taxi ride or walk from the ghat.
INR600, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Rural Charm and Adventure

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Blue Lassi

Savour a fresh fruit lassi and local sweets, energising you for a day of exploration.
Near the Varanasi market.
INR200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Cycle Rickshaw Tour

Experience Varanasi’s bustling streets and narrow lanes, witnessing local life and artisans at work.
Hire a rickshaw near your accommodation.
INR300, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Rawat Prabhuji

Try the famous Thali or Chole Bhature, delicious and filling, getting fuelled for the afternoon.
Take a rickshaw (10 mins).
INR400, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Banaras Hindu University

Explore the beautiful campus and its diverse architectural styles reflecting a rich educational heritage.
Take a cab from the restaurant (20 mins).
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore the Ghats by Boat

Take a relaxing boat ride along the Ganges, soaking in the serene beauty and spirituality of Varanasi.
Return to the ghats (20 mins cab ride).
INR500, 1 hour

5:30PM

Stroll along the Ghats

Walk along the ghats, witnessing local rituals and observing the lively atmosphere as the sun begins to set.
Walking from the boat boarding point.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Varanasi, The Great Indian Thali

Indulge in a traditional thali that showcases the diverse flavours of Indian cuisine.
Walking distance from your ghat location.
INR650, 1 hour
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Day 3: Nature and Relaxation

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Chai Pani

Start with a hearty breakfast of South Indian fare, enjoying a refreshing cup of chai.
Located in the Varanasi Main Market.
INR150, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Assi Ghat

Relax at the quieter Assi Ghat, taking in the natural beauty and participating in peaceful yoga or meditation sessions that may be occurring.
Take a local rickshaw (20 mins).
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore the local market

Wander through the vibrant local market, perfect for picking up souvenirs and handicrafts.
Walking back from Assi Ghat.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe

Savour a delightful mix of Italian and Indian cuisine while enjoying views of the Ganges.
Located at Assi Ghat.
INR500, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Tulsi Manas Mandir

Admire the beautiful structure and engaging history surrounding this important temple dedicated to Lord Rama.
Take a rickshaw (10 mins).
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Afternoon Tea at The Varanasi Tea Company

Enjoy sampling a variety of local teas, perfect for a refreshing break.
Back to the main area (20 mins rickshaw ride).
INR250, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Kashi River View Restaurant

End the day with a beautiful view of the river while enjoying local vegetarian cuisine.
Walk to the restaurant by the river.
INR700, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Adventure and Exploration

Varanasi, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at The Kashi Kitchen

Try the stuffed paratha with curd, loved by locals; it’s a great start to your adventurous day.
Located close to the main ghats.
INR200, 1 hour

9:00AM

Day trip to Chunar Fort

Take a short 30 km ride to Chunar, exploring the historical fort overlooking the Ganges and learning about its fascinating history.
Hire a cab for convenience (30 mins).
INR1200, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Chunar Fort Cafe

Enjoy local specialties at a cafe with stunning views of the river and fort.
Located just near the fort.
INR500, 1 hour

2:30PM

Return to Varanasi

Head back to Varanasi, taking in the scenic views along the way.
Cab (30 mins).
Included in earlier cost, 30 mins

3:15PM

Visit Manikarnika Ghat

Experience the unique cultural practices and understand the Ghat's significance in Hindu culture.
Short taxi from your accommodation.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Sunset Boat Ride

Enjoy a boat ride during sunset to witness the magical colours reflected in the river.
Boat rides available at the Ghat.
INR500, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Surya

Enjoy a delicious meal of paneer tikka and dal makhani in a serene environment.
Short taxi from the boat ride endpoint.
INR600, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Arts and Culture

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Baithak Cafe

Select from a range of options including pancakes and fresh fruit juices to kickstart your day.
Nearby your accommodation.
INR250, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Bharat Kala Bhavan

Explore this museum dedicated to the arts and crafts of Varanasi, showcasing historical artefacts and artworks.
Take a local rickshaw (15 mins).
INR100, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Coffee House

Enjoy a relaxing lunch atmosphere with delicious sandwiches and filter coffee.
Close to the museum.
INR350, 1 hour

2:00PM

Participate in a Local Music Class

Get immersed in the local culture by learning a few ragas on sitar or tabla from skilled musicians.
Organise through your accommodation (10 mins).
INR1500 (approx. for a session), 2.5 hours

4:30PM

Stroll through Thatheri Bazaar

Wander this lively market famous for brass works and shop for unique souvenirs.
Walking distance from the music class location.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Varanasi, Shiva Cafe

Savour a calming environment with a mix of local dishes and Italian options, ideal for your last night.
Just a short walk from the market.
INR600, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Culinary Discovery

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Green Vegetarian Cafe

Start your day with wholesome breakfast options, including smoothies and wholesome breads.
Located near the main ghats.
INR200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Varanasi Food Tour

Embark on a guided food tour to explore the local delicacies such as chaat, kachoris, and sweets, experiencing Varanasi through its food.
Meeting point will be communicated upon booking.
INR2000 (approx.), 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Blue Lassi again

Return here for the famous lassi and some additional street food snacks to refuel.
Close enough to walk from the tour endpoint.
INR300, 1 hour

3:00PM

Cooking Class

Take a cooking class to learn the secrets of Varanasi's cuisine and get tips from local chefs.
Organised through local guides.
INR1500 (approx. for a session), 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Varanasi, Spice by Blue

Try contemporary Indian cuisine in a modern setting as you wrap up your culinary journey.
Close to your class location.
INR800, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Relaxation and Departure

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Netram's Tea Stall

Savour classic tea accompanied by local sweets before your final day of relaxation.
Nearby your stay.
INR100, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Botanical Garden

Take a peaceful stroll in this lush garden, enjoying the beauty of nature and winding down.
Cab ride for about 20 mins.
INR50, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit to Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple

Experience the tranquillity of this revered temple, an important spiritual site in Varanasi.
Walking distance from the garden.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Pita – The Highway Cafe

Enjoy a delightful finish with fusion dishes combining Indian and Western flavours to reflect your week.
Take a cab back from the temple (20 mins).
INR600, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax and Spa Treatment

Treat yourself to a traditional Ayurvedic spa treatment for a perfect ending to your adventures.
Book at a local spa near your accommodation.
INR2500 (approx. for treatment), 2 hours

5:30PM

Final Stroll and Farewell

Enjoy a stroll along the ghats once more, reflecting on your journey in this enchanting city.
Walking distance from the spa.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Departure Dinner at The Ganga View Restaurant

Celebrate your week with a special dinner overlooking the Ganges, embracing the joy of the experiences gained.
Near the ghats.
INR800, 2 hours
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