6-Day Itinerary for an Unforgettable Experience in Banaras, India

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Varanasi, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Kashi Chat Bhandar

Start your day with a delicious plate of Kachori Sabzi, a popular local breakfast dish.
Located near the ghats, easily walkable.
INR250, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit the Ghats

Stroll along the iconic Assi Ghat, soaking in the spiritual ambiance of the banks of the Ganges River.
Walking distance from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

11:30 AM

Explore Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Visit one of the most sacred temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, which is a must-see for any visitor.
Short rickshaw ride from Assi Ghat.
Free, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Lunch at Biriyani House

Savor the rich flavors of Awadhi Biriyani, paired with Raita and salad, at this local favorite.
About 15 minutes by rickshaw.
INR300, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Visit Sarnath

Explore the significant Buddhist site where Buddha first taught after his enlightenment, including the Dhamekh Stupa.
Take a taxi or local bus (about a 30-minute drive).
INR100, 3 hours

6:00 PM

Evening Ganga Aarti

Experience the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat, a spiritual spectacle you won't forget.
Back to Varanasi by taxi (30 minutes).
Free, 1.5 hours

8:00 PM

Dinner at The Vaishali

Enjoy a relaxed dinner featuring North Indian dishes, particularly their Paneer Tikka and Tandoori Roti.
Near the ghats, easy to reach by foot.
INR400, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Delights

Varanasi, India

7:00 AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Start your day with a traditional Indian breakfast featuring Poha and chai.
Conveniently at your lodging.
INR200, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Visit Tulsi Manas Mandir

Admire the beautiful architecture of this temple, dedicated to Lord Rama, and its serene atmosphere.
Short rickshaw ride from the hotel.
Free, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Explore Banaras Hindu University (BHU)

Take a free walk around this vast campus, visiting the Bharat Kala Bhavan museum with its rich collection.
15-minute rickshaw ride.
INR100, 2 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Chaat Gully

Taste the famous local street food like Pani Puri and Papdi Chaat here.
Nearby BHU, a quick walk.
INR150, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Visit the Varanasi Silk Weaving Industry

Witness the craftsmanship of traditional Banarasi silk textile weaving and pick up some unique souvenirs.
Short taxi ride back into the city.
Free, 2 hours

4:00 PM

Shopping at Vishwanath Gali

Dive into a vibrant market full of local handicrafts, jewelry, and more for authentic finds.
Walking distance from the weaving workshop.
Varies, 2 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe

Savor some delicious wood-fired pizza in a garden setting, highly rated by travelers.
Short rickshaw ride from the market.
INR600, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Spiritual Journey

Varanasi, India

6:30 AM

Early Morning Boat Ride on the Ganges

Witness the stunning sunrise over the Ganges and the morning rituals of local devotees from a boat.
Boats available at Assi Ghat.
INR500, 1.5 hours

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Brown Bread Bakery

Enjoy fresh baked goods and an organic breakfast with a European twist.
Walking distance from Assi Ghat.
INR350, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Manikarnika Ghat

Witness the ancient cremation rites that take place here, a powerful experience to understand the belief in life and death.
10-minute walk from the bakery.
Free, 1 hour

11:00 AM

Explore the Ramnagar Fort

Visit this historic fort on the banks of the Ganges, complete with a museum showcasing royal artifacts.
Short boat ride to Ramnagar across the river.
INR150, 2 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at The Assi Restaurant

Indulge in flavorful North Indian cuisine, trying their special Thali.
Back to the main city by boat and then a short walk.
INR500, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Leisure Time and Spa Visit

Take a break at your hotel or pamper yourself with an Ayurvedic spa session.
Return to your hotel by walk.
INR1200, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Kaesar Restaurant

Enjoy a culinary experience with local dishes accentuated by a modern twist in a plush setting.
15-minute walk back to the main area.
INR800, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Heritage and History

Varanasi, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Aum Cafe

Kickstart your day with a healthy breakfast option like their famous smoothies and granola.
Located near the ghats.
INR300, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit the Bharat Mata Temple

Marvel at this unique temple featuring a relief map of India, giving insights into the country's topography.
Short taxi ride from the cafe.
Free, 1 hour

11:00 AM

Explore the Ramakrishna Mission

Learn about the teachings of Ramakrishna and the impactful social work of this organization.
Quick 10-minute walk.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Varanasi Chaat Bhandar

Try the local specialty - Banarasi Chaat, packed with flavors and spices.
15-minute walk from the Mission.
INR200, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Visit the Archaeological Museum

Explore a range of ancient artifacts from the region, giving a deeper understanding of Banaras' history.
5-minute walk.
INR100, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Walk through the Old City

Experience the vibrant streets and hidden temples, feeling the true essence of Banarasi life.
Easily walkable from the museum.
Free, 2 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Varanasi Dine

Indulge in authentic Mughlai cuisine, enjoyed with live music in a traditional ambiance.
Center of the old city.
INR700, 2 hours
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Day 5: Relaxing and Reflection

Varanasi, India

9:00 AM

Breakfast at The Goodness Cafe

Enjoy a light breakfast with a range of organic options including sandwiches and fresh juices.
Close to your hotel.
INR300, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Yoga Session along the Ganges

Participate in a revitalizing yoga session with an instructor at the riverside.
Contact local yoga centers for session info.
INR500, 1.5 hours

12:00 PM

Visit the Aarti Corner

Find a peaceful spot to reflect and enjoy the serene sights of the river.
Easily walkable from the yoga spot.
Free, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Lunch at Aangan Restaurant

Dine on a variety of Indian and continental dishes in a calm environment.
5-minute walk.
INR400, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Visit the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple

Experience the peace and spirituality of this popular Hanuman temple frequented by locals.
Short rickshaw ride.
Free, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Relax at your hotel

Take some time to rest, or maybe visit the hotel pool/spa for relaxation.
Return to your hotel.
Varies, 2 hours

7:30 PM

Dinner at The Kashi

Delight in a mix of traditional and contemporary cuisine in a vibrant setting.
Located a short distance from your hotel.
INR600, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Departure

Varanasi, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at home-style cafe

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast with local favorites served in a cozy environment.
Close to the hotel.
INR250, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Last-minute shopping

Grab those final souvenirs in the bustling Vishwanath Gali.
Walking distance from your cafe.
Varies, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Check-out and departure

Prepare for your journey ahead, carrying beautiful memories of Varanasi.
Return to hotel for check-out.
Free, 1 hour
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