3-Day Nature Escape on a Shoestring Budget in Varanasi

Day 1: Explore Spiritual Varanasi

Varanasi, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Kashi Chaat Bhandar

Start your day with delicious and affordable kachoris and jalebis at this iconic local breakfast spot.
Walk or take a short rickshaw ride.
INR 50, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Sarnath

Discover the serene beauty of Sarnath, where Buddha gave his first sermon, and explore its archaeological and spiritual significance.
Take a local bus or rickshaw, approximately 10 km from Varanasi.
INR 100 (transportation), 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Aum Cafe

Enjoy fresh and healthy vegetarian food with a stunning view of the surrounding greenery.
Return to Varanasi for lunch.
INR 200, 1 hour

1:30PM

Walk along the Ghats

Stroll along the famous ghats of Varanasi, soaking in the spiritual ambiance and scenic views of the Ganges.
Walk along the riverside.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit Manikarnika Ghat

Witness the unique rituals and ceremonies at Manikarnika Ghat, the main cremation ghat of Varanasi.
Continue walking along the ghats.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Attend Ganga Aarti Ceremony

Experience the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, where evening prayers are performed with absolute devotion.
Find a good spot near Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Baithak Cafe

End your day with a delightful meal at Baithak Cafe, enjoying views of the Ganges while relishing local dishes.
Walk back to the cafe from the ghat.
INR 250, 1 hour
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Day 2: Nature and Heritage Experience

Varanasi, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at Bread of Life Bakery

Savor freshly baked bread and coffee to start your morning on a delicious note.
Walk to the bakery nearby.
INR 150, 1 hour

9:00AM

Boat Ride on the Ganges

Enjoy a peaceful morning boat ride on the Ganges, taking in the serene landscapes and vibrant life along the river.
Rent a boat from the ghats, easily accessible.
INR 300, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Tulsi Manas Mandir

Explore the beautiful Tulsi Manas Mandir, dedicated to Lord Rama, and admire its intricate architecture and peaceful gardens.
Short walk from the boat landing.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Varanasi Diner

Relish North Indian dishes in a quaint diner setting, perfect for refueling after a busy morning.
Walk to the nearby diner.
INR 250, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple

Visit this revered temple filled with vibrant colors and a lively atmosphere, where locals come to pray.
Take a rickshaw to the temple.
INR 100 (transportation), 1 hour

3:00PM

Relax at Assi Ghat

Spend your afternoon at Assi Ghat, enjoying the peaceful surroundings and maybe even a small yoga session.
Take a short walk from the temple.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Evening Snack at Chaat Bhandar

Grab some local chaat and snacks from Chaat Bhandar to experience more of Varanasi’s street food.
Walk from Assi Ghat.
INR 100, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Deena Chat Bhandar

Taste the local delicacies while soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of Varanasi’s food scene.
A short walk from your previous stop.
INR 200, 1 hour
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Day 3: Cultural Immersion Day

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Shiva Cafe

Start your day with light breakfast options like sandwiches and tea overlooking the river.
Short walk to the cafe.
INR 150, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Banaras Hindu University

Explore the expansive campus and admire the unique architecture, complete with the Bharat Kala Bhavan museum.
Take a rickshaw to the university.
INR 100 (transportation), 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Gyanvapi Mosque

Visit this significant mosque with historical importance, and enjoy the blending of culture and history.
Walk to the mosque from the university.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at JHV Mall Food Court

Choose from diverse food options in the food court, providing a mix of Indian and international cuisines.
Take a rickshaw back to JHV Mall.
INR 300, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the Ramnagar Fort

Explore this beautiful fort located just outside Varanasi, known for its unique architecture and scenic views of the Ganges.
Take a local bus or rickshaw to the fort.
INR 100 (transportation), 2 hours

4:30PM

Relax at the Fort Gardens

Take a leisurely stroll in the gardens of Ramnagar Fort and capture beautiful photographs.
Stay within the fort area.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Snack at Varanasi’s Street Vendors

Indulge in local street food from various vendors, enjoying flavors unique to Varanasi.
Return to Varanasi’s city center.
INR 150, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Banarasi Paratha

Conclude your trip with delicious parathas and curries at a local eatery that specializes in these dishes.
Short walk from the previous location.
INR 250, 1 hour
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