5-Day Adventure and Relaxation Itinerary in Varanasi, India

Day 1: Exploration and Sunset

Varanasi, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Varanasi's Flavours

Start your day with a delicious traditional Indian breakfast featuring Aloo Paratha and Lassi.
Walk over to the nearby Ganga River after breakfast.
INR 250, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Boat Ride on the Ganges

Experience the mesmerizing morning atmosphere with a boat ride on the Ganges, witnessing the rituals and life along the river.
Depart from Dashashwamedh Ghat.
INR 800, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Kashi Chat Bhandar

Indulge in some street food; try the famous Chaat and Samosas.
Short walk from the ghat to the restaurant.
INR 200, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Explore one of the most famous Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and soak in its spiritual ambiance.
Rickshaw ride to the temple.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:15 PM

Explore the Narrow Lanes of Varanasi

Wander through the ancient alleys, explore shops, and witness local artisans at work.
Walking through the streets.
Free, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Ganga Aarti Ceremony

Witness the stunning Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat as the sun sets and the lights come alive.
Staying at the ghat is recommended for a good view.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at The Kashi Bhavan

Savor a variety of local dishes such as Biryani or Paneer Tikka.
Short walk from Dashashwamedh Ghat.
INR 400, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Immersion

Varanasi, India

7:30 AM

Breakfast at Baidyanath Chaat Bhandar

Fuel up with Bedmi Puri and Chole, a local favorite.
A short stroll from your accommodation.
INR 150, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Visit Sarnath

Explore the sacred site where Buddha gave his first sermon and visit the museum and ruins.
20-minute taxi ride from Varanasi.
INR 700 (transportation plus entrance fee), 3 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at The Museum Restaurant

Enjoy a serene meal with South Indian delicacies in a garden setting.
Located within Sarnath.
INR 300, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Meditation Workshop

Participate in a meditation session led by an experienced guru for inner peace.
Back in Varanasi; option to walk or take a rickshaw.
INR 1000, 2 hours

4:30 PM

Visit Manikarnika Ghat

Learn about the funeral rites and ceremonies at this significant ghat.
Rickshaw ride from your location to the ghat.
Free, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Attend a Classical Music Concert

Enjoy an evening of live classical music, an important part of Varanasi’s culture.
Check local listings for venues.
INR 500, 2 hours

8:30 PM

Dinner at BrijRama Palace

Dine in a royal ambience with exquisite dishes, such as Rogan Josh.
Close to Dashashwamedh Ghat.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Nature Day Trip

Varanasi, India

7:00 AM

Early Breakfast at Your Hotel

Enjoy a quick and hearty breakfast before your nature trip.
At your hotel.
INR 300, 1 hour

8:00 AM

Day Trip to Chandraprabha Wildlife Sanctuary

Depart to Chandraprabha, a serene sanctuary, perfect for exploring wildlife and nature trails.
Taxi ride to the sanctuary.
INR 2000 (total transport + entrance fee), 5 hours

1:00 PM

Picnic Lunch in the Sanctuary

Bring a packed lunch to enjoy while surrounded by nature’s beauty.
Prepare before leaving Varanasi.
INR 200, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Nature Trails Exploration

Discover various trails, watch for native birds, and appreciate the flora and fauna.
Walking through the sanctuary.
Free, 3 hours

5:00 PM

Return to Varanasi

Relax during the taxi ride back to the city after a fulfilling day.
Taxi ride back.
INR 1000, 1 hour

6:30 PM

Dinner at Aum Cafe

Relax and enjoy a vegetarian meal with local and international dishes.
Close to the Ganges.
INR 300, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Spiritual Connections

Varanasi, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Puri Wala

Delight in a breakfast of Puri and Aloo Masala to kickstart your day.
Just a short walk away.
INR 150, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Attend a Yoga Class

Participate in a morning yoga session to rejuvenate your body and mind.
Find a local yoga studio in Varanasi.
INR 500, 2 hours

11:30 AM

Visit Durga Temple

Explore the intricate architecture and the vibrant rituals at this famous temple.
Short taxi ride to the temple.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at The Ganga View Restaurant

Savor a meal while overlooking the sacred river.
A short walk from the temple.
INR 400, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Visit to the Assi Ghat

Spend your afternoon at Assi Ghat, enjoy the calmness and perhaps a small boat ride.
Walking distance from the restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Explore the Varanasi Silk Weaving District

Discover the craftsmanship behind Varanasi’s famous silk saris.
Rickshaw ride to the district.
Free, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Vatan Biryani

Relish a hearty Biryani dinner to end your day with delightful flavors.
Short taxi ride from the silk district.
INR 500, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Leisure and Reflection

Varanasi, India

8:30 AM

Breakfast at Raga Restaurant

Enjoy a peaceful breakfast with Indo-Western options like pancakes or an Indian Thali.
Easy walking distance from most accommodations.
INR 350, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Tulsi Manas Temple

Experience the beautiful architecture and admire the serene surroundings.
Rickshaw ride from breakfast.
Free, 1 hour

11:00 AM

Explore the Banaras Hindu University

Walk around the sprawling campus of one of the oldest universities in India.
Short taxi ride to BHU.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Vaishali Restaurant

Enjoy a delightful vegetarian lunch featuring local dishes.
Located near the university.
INR 400, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Shopping for Souvenirs

Pick up some local crafts, silk products, and traditional artworks from Varanasi's markets.
Walk to the nearby market areas.
Variable, 2 hours

4:30 PM

Relax at a Café

Take the afternoon to relax at a café along the Ganges, sipping chai and reflecting on your trip.
Multiple options available along the river.
INR 200, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Farewell Dinner at Taj Ganges

Indulge in a luxurious farewell dinner with a mix of local and international cuisine.
Taxi ride from the café.
INR 1200, 2 hours
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