3-Day Itinerary for Kashi (Varanasi), India

Day 1: Exploring Spiritual Varanasi

Varanasi, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at Kashi Chat Bhandar

Start your day with a traditional Indian breakfast, enjoying the delicious Kashi Chaat and assorted local sweets to fuel up for the morning ahead.
Walk from your hotel; Kashi Chat Bhandar is centrally located near Dashashwamedh Ghat.
INR150, 1 hour

9:00AM

Morning Boat Ride on the Ganges

Experience the sacred morning rituals as you glide along the Ganges River, watching the sunrise casting golden hues over the ghats.
Board a boat from Dashashwamedh Ghat.
INR200, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Explore one of the most renowned temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, immersing yourself in its spiritual ambiance and historical significance.
Walk to the temple from the ghat, it's an easy 15-minute stroll.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Baati Chokha

Savor authentic Bhojpuri cuisine, particularly the famous Baati Chokha, a delightful combination of baked wheat balls and spicy mashed vegetables.
Take an auto-rickshaw from the temple; it is around 20 minutes away.
INR300, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Banaras Hindu University (BHU)

Visit this renowned educational institution, take a leisurely stroll around its picturesque campus and beautiful gardens.
Auto-rickshaw can get you there in about 10 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Sarnath

Discover the historic site where Buddha delivered his first sermon, complete with stupas and museums which offer a glimpse into Buddhist culture.
Hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw for the 30-minute ride.
INR500, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Varanasi Cafe

Enjoy a relaxed dinner with local flavors including a variety of delicious curries and freshly baked naan.
Return to the city center by taxi, a 30-minute drive.
INR400, 1 hour

8:00PM

Ganga Aarti Ceremony

Conclude your day by witnessing the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, a spectacular spiritual ceremony with music and fire.
Walk back to Dashashwamedh Ghat from the cafe, it's the perfect end to your first day.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 2: Culture and Heritage

Varanasi, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at Brown Bread Bakery

Indulge in a hearty breakfast of freshly baked goods and organic coffee, a great way to kickstart your day.
Located near Assi Ghat, it's an easy walk from most hotels.
INR250, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Weaver's Village

Explore the age-old art of weaving as you interact with local artisans and see the creation of beautiful Benarasi silk sarees.
Take an auto-rickshaw, it's a short ride of about 15 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Sarnath Restaurant

Enjoy a meal in Sarnath, featuring local cuisine with options for vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.
Located near the Sarnath area, a quick auto-rickshaw ride from the weaver's village.
INR350, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Sarnath Museums

Visit the Archaeological Museum and its collection of artifacts from the ancient world, including the famous Ashoka Pillar.
Walk to the museums from the restaurant, it's about a 10-minute walk.
INR200, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit Ramnagar Fort

Explore the historic fort overlooking the Ganges, known for its unique museum filled with ancient artifacts from the royal family.
Take a boat across the river from Sarnath; it's a scenic journey.
INR300, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Dosa Cafe

Delight in a satisfying South Indian dinner, with a variety of dosas stuffed with fresh fillings, perfect for winding down the day.
Return to the main city via the same boat route.
INR350, 1 hour

7:30PM

Attend a Classical Music Concert

Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage by attending a local classical music concert, often held at music schools or public venues.
Check on popular venues and book tickets in advance for a good experience.
INR500, 2 hours
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Day 3: Local Markets and Cooking Class

Varanasi, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at Varanasi Restaurant

Enjoy a classic Indian breakfast, including poha, aloo paratha, and chai for a true taste of local breakfast cultures.
Easily accessible in the city center; a short walk from many hotels.
INR200, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Vishwanath Gali Market

Explore the vibrant market selling local handicrafts, religious items, spices, and more, the perfect place for souvenirs.
Walk into the vibrant lanes from the restaurant, soak in the atmosphere.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Participate in a Cooking Class

Learn the art of making traditional Indian dishes, guided by a local chef who shares secrets of the cuisine.
Pre-book a class that is available near the market area.
INR1200, 3 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at the Cooking Class Venue

Enjoy the delicious meal you just prepared during the cooking class, surrounded by fellow food enthusiasts.
N/A
Included in cooking class, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Tulsi Manas Temple

Marvel at the architecture and serene ambiance of this temple dedicated to Lord Rama and Sita, built with exquisite marble, intricately carved.
Take an auto-rickshaw; it's a 15-minute distance from the cooking class.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Aum Cafe

Savor a peaceful dinner in this serene café, known for its healthy vegetarian fare and great ambiance.
A short auto-rickshaw ride back towards the ghats.
INR400, 1 hour

7:30PM

Evening Stroll Along the Ghats

Conclude your Varanasi adventure with a serene evening stroll along the ghats, reflecting on the beauty and spirituality of the Ganges.
Accessible on foot from Aum Cafe.
Free, 1 hour
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