Discover the Spiritual Heart of India: A 2-Day Itinerary in Varanasi

Day 1: Spiritual Awakening

Varanasi, India

6:00AM

Boat Ride on the Ganges

Start your day with a serene boat ride on the Ganges River at dawn, watching the sun rise over the ghats as pilgrims begin their daily rituals.
Head to the Dashashwamedh Ghat for a starting point to hire a boat.
INR500, 2 hours

8:30AM

Breakfast at Kashi Chat Bhandar

Savour a delicious local breakfast of Tamatar Chaat and Lassi at Kashi Chat Bhandar, known for its vibrant flavours.
Walk back towards the main market area.
INR150, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Explore one of the most revered temples in India, Kashi Vishwanath, dedicated to Lord Shiva, experiencing the spiritual atmosphere.
It's a short walk from the breakfast spot.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Brown Bread Bakery

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Brown Bread Bakery, famous for its organic breads and healthy meals, set in a peaceful garden setting.
Walk back to Godowlia Chowk and then head towards the bakery.
INR300, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Sarnath

Take a short taxi ride to Sarnath, where Buddha gave his first sermon, and visit the Dhamek Stupa and the Sarnath Archaeological Museum.
Book a local taxi or tuk-tuk for a quick ride to Sarnath.
INR200, 3 hours

5:00PM

Evening Ganga Aarti

Return to Varanasi and witness the spectacular Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat as priests perform rituals with flames and music.
Head back to Dashashwamedh Ghat, best to reach early for a good view.
Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Varuna

Conclude your day with dinner at Varuna, offering a blend of North Indian and continental cuisine, in a relaxed atmosphere.
A short walk from the ghat back towards mall road.
INR500, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Deep Dive

Varanasi, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Café Coffee Day

Start your day with breakfast at Café Coffee Day, which offers a variety of options including sandwiches and coffees to get you fuelled up.
Head towards the main road from your accommodation.
INR200, 1 hour

8:30AM

Wander the Ghats

Stroll along the ghats, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, witnessing daily rituals, and taking photographs of this beautiful riverside city.
Explore by foot, starting at the Dashashwamedh Ghat and walking along the river.
Free, 2 hours

10:30AM

Visit the Banaras Hindu University

Tour the expansive campus of Banaras Hindu University, including the Bharat Kala Bhavan, which showcases exquisite Indian art and artefacts.
Take a tuk-tuk from the ghats to the university.
INR100, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Varanasi Home

Relish delicious vegetarian Indian thali at Varanasi Home, where homemade flavours take centre stage.
A motorised vehicle is recommended for ease of travel back.
INR400, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore the Silk Weaving Factories

Discover the artisanal craft of silk weaving in Varanasi by visiting local silk factories and learning about their traditional processes.
Take a short tuk-tuk ride to the nearest weaving factory.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit Tulsi Manas Mandir

Explore the beautifully constructed Tulsi Manas Temple, dedicated to Lord Rama, noted for its intricate marble carvings.
A tuk-tuk ride will take you to the temple conveniently.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Dum Pukht

Savour a luxurious dining experience with Mughlai cuisine at The Dum Pukht, making your final meal in Varanasi extraordinary.
Head to the restaurant in a taxi, which should be pre-booked if possible.
INR1200, 2 hours
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