13-Day Cultural Journey in Varanasi

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Varanasi, India

08:00AM

Breakfast at Kashi Chaat

Start your day with some famous Banarasi chaat at Kashi Chaat, renowned for its delectable flavours.
Walk from the hotel to the restaurant, around 10 minutes.
INR250, 1 hour

09:30AM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Explore the sacred Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most revered temples dedicated to Lord Shiva in India.
Rickshaw ride to the temple, approximately 15 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Walk along the Ghats

Stroll along the ghats, admiring the serene Ganges River and the lively devotional activities.
Walking along the ghats offers beautiful views and local experiences.
Free, 2 hours

01:00PM

Lunch at Varanasi's Local Eatery

Savour a traditional thali at Varanasi's Local Eatery to experience local cuisine.
A quick walk from the ghats, around 5 minutes.
INR400, 1 hour

02:30PM

Visit Sarnath

Take a trip to Sarnath, where Buddha gave his first sermon, and visit the museum and ancient ruins.
Hire a taxi for a 30-minute ride to Sarnath.
INR600 for taxi + INDIANRS100 for entrance, 3 hours

06:00PM

Evening Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat

Witness the magnificent Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, a spiritual experience so captivating it’s unforgettable.
Return to the ghats by taxi (30 minutes)
Free, 1 hour

08:00PM

Dinner at Baati Chokha

Enjoy a dinner of traditional Uttar Pradeshi cuisine, including Baati and Chokha, at Baati Chokha.
A short walk from Dashashwamedh Ghat, around 10 minutes.
INR500, 1 hour
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Day 2: Cultural Immersion

Varanasi, India

08:00AM

Breakfast at Pahalwan Lassi

Indulge in a refreshing lassi and some local breakfast items at Pahalwan Lassi.
5-minute walk from the hotel.
INR150, 1 hour

09:30AM

Visit Banaras Hindu University (BHU)

Explore the beautiful campus of BHU and visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan museum.
30 minutes by rickshaw.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Join a Yoga Class

Participate in a yoga class at one of the local ashrams to rejuvenate your body and mind.
Walking distance from BHU, around 10 minutes.
INR500, 1.5 hours

01:30PM

Lunch at The Kashi Cafe

Enjoy a relaxed lunch at The Kashi Cafe, known for its healthy vegetarian options.
A short walk from the yoga studio, approximately 5 minutes.
INR350, 1 hour

03:00PM

Visit Manikarnika Ghat

Witness the traditional cremation rituals at Manikarnika Ghat, a profound and most sacred site in Varanasi.
Rickshaw to Manikarnika Ghat, about 15 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

05:30PM

Explore Local Markets

Shop for souvenirs and handicrafts in the vibrant local markets around the ghats.
Walking from Manikarnika Ghat, approximately 10 minutes.
Variable, 1.5 hours

07:30PM

Dinner at Varanasi Restaurant

Conclude the day with a delightful dinner featuring local cuisines and delicacies.
Walking distance from the market, about 10 minutes.
INR600, 1 hour
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Day 3: Spiritual Exploration

Varanasi, India

07:30AM

Breakfast at Brown Bread Bakery

Savour a healthy breakfast of fresh baked goods and organic coffee at Brown Bread Bakery.
15 minutes walk from your accommodation.
INR300, 1 hour

09:00AM

Boat Ride on the Ganges

Experience a tranquil boat ride on the Ganges at sunrise to witness breathtaking views of the ghats.
Walk to the ghats where boats are hired, around 10 minutes.
INR500, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Tulsi Manas Mandir

Visit this beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Rama and admire its architecture and tranquil surroundings.
Walk from the ghats to the temple, around 15 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Varanasi's Taste

Enjoy a delicious lunch featuring local street food at Varanasi's Taste.
Walking distance from the temple, approximately 10 minutes.
INR300, 1 hour

01:30PM

Visit Durga Temple

Explore the famous Durga Temple, known as the monkey temple, and its vibrant surroundings.
Rickshaw to Durga Temple, about 15 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

03:00PM

Attend a Sanskrit Class

Participate in a short Sanskrit class to learn about the language's significance in Varanasi.
Nearby the Durga Temple, walking distance.
INR400, 2 hours

05:30PM

Dinner at Tandoor Villa

Savour an array of tandoori dishes and more at Tandoor Villa to complete this spiritually uplifting day.
Rickshaw ride back to the city centre, approximately 20 minutes.
INR700, 1 hour
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Day 4: Heritage and Arts

Varanasi, India

08:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel to fuel up for a day of exploration.
Breakfast is served in-house.
Included, 1 hour

09:00AM

Explore Silk Weaving Workshops

Visit local workshops to witness the intricate art of silk weaving that Varanasi is famous for.
Walking distance from the hotel, approximately 15 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Sarnath Museum

Explore the collections at the Sarnath Museum showcasing Buddhist art and sculptures.
Hire a taxi to Sarnath, about 25 minutes.
INR600 for taxi + INR200 for entrance, 2 hours

02:00PM

Lunch at Bhojan Ghar

Enjoy a traditional vegetarian meal at Bhojan Ghar, known for its authenticity.
Taxi back to Varanasi, about 25 minutes.
INR500, 1 hour

03:30PM

Visit Ramnagar Fort

Explore Ramnagar Fort, an 18th-century fort that provides insights into the historical significance of Varanasi.
Hire a taxi, approximately 20 minutes away.
INR200, 2 hours

06:00PM

Evening Stroll at Assi Ghat

Take a leisurely stroll at Assi Ghat, enjoying the lively atmosphere as night falls.
Return taxi ride to Assi Ghat, about 20 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

07:30PM

Dinner at Varanasi South Indian Restaurant

Treat yourself to delicious South Indian dishes at Varanasi South Indian Restaurant.
Walk from Assi Ghat, approximately 10 minutes.
INR500, 1 hour
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Day 5: Local Cuisine Exploration

Varanasi, India

08:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Cafe

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe Cafe, known for its vibrant atmosphere and delightful menu.
5-minute walk from your hotel.
INR300, 1 hour

09:30AM

Food Walk Tour

Join a guided food walk to taste notable street food items in Varanasi's narrow lanes.
The tour provider will meet you at a central location.
INR1200, 3 hours

01:00PM

Lunch at Aum Cafe

Enjoy lunch at Aum Cafe, featuring healthy yogic meals and great views of the Ganges.
Walking distance from the end of the food tour, around 10 minutes.
INR400, 1 hour

02:30PM

Cooking Class

Engage in a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Indian dishes.
The class will be hosted in the same facility as Aum Cafe.
INR1500, 3 hours

06:00PM

Relax at Local Lassi Stand

Take a break at a local lassi stand to cool down with some sweet refreshing lassi.
Walking distance from the cooking class, about 5 minutes.
INR100, 30 minutes

07:00PM

Dinner at the Legend of Varanasi

Dine on a wide variety of eclectic meal choices at the Legend of Varanasi.
Rickshaw ride to dinner, about 10 minutes.
INR600, 1 hour
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Day 6: Nature and Relaxation

Varanasi, India

08:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before embarking on a mini-adventure.
Breakfast provided at the accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

09:30AM

Visit the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple

Visit this ancient temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, situated away from the city bustle.
Rickshaw ride to the temple, about 20 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Heritage Walk through Varanasi

Join a heritage walk to discover lesser-known parts of Varanasi and their stories.
Walking from the temple to the meeting point, about 10 minutes.
INR800, 2 hours

01:00PM

Lunch at Niyati Restaurant

Indulge in a traditional Indian lunch at Niyati Restaurant, known for its variety.
Walking distance from the end of the walk, around 10 minutes.
INR500, 1 hour

02:30PM

Visit Bhuvaneshvari Temple

Explore the serene Bhuvaneshvari Temple located in an off-the-beaten-path location.
Rickshaw ride to the temple, about 15 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

04:00PM

Relax at Assi Ghat

Take some time to relax, read a book, or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere at Assi Ghat.
Rickshaw ride back to Assi Ghat, approximately 15 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

06:30PM

Dinner at Mangi Ferra Restaurant

Conclude the day with a relaxing dinner overlooking the Ganges at Mangi Ferra.
Short walk from Assi Ghat, around 10 minutes.
INR700, 1 hour
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Day 7: Arts and History

Varanasi, India

08:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with breakfast at your hotel before heading out for a day of exploration.
Breakfast provided at your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

09:30AM

Visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum

Explore the art and history exhibits housed in the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum located in BHU.
Rickshaw ride to the museum, about 20 minutes.
INR200, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Kashi Chat Bhandar

Enjoy Varanasi's famous chaats at Kashi Chat Bhandar for an authentic flavour of the city.
Rickshaw ride back to the city centre, about 15 minutes.
INR250, 1 hour

01:30PM

Visit the Alamgir Mosque

Explore the Alamgir Mosque, a beautiful piece of Mughal architecture situated in the heart of the city.
Walking distance from Kashi Chat Bhandar, around 10 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

03:00PM

Art Gallery Visit

Inquire about local artists and galleries in the area and spend some time appreciating their work.
Rickshaw ride to recommended galleries, approximately 15 minutes.
Variable, 2 hours

05:30PM

Relax at a Local Coffee Shop

Unwind at a local coffee shop, sipping coffee and watching the city unfold around you.
Walking distance from the gallery, about 10 minutes.
INR150, 1.5 hours

07:30PM

Dinner at Royal India Restaurant

Dine on some of the best local and North Indian dishes at Royal India.
Rickshaw ride to the restaurant, about 15 minutes.
INR600, 1 hour
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Day 8: Spiritual Retreat

Varanasi, India

07:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel to fuel up for another day in Varanasi.
Breakfast provided at the accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

08:30AM

Morning Meditation by the Ganges

Join a guided morning meditation session by the calm riverside.
Walking to the ghats for meditation, approximately 15 minutes.
INR500, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit the Gyanvapi Mosque

Visit the historic Gyanvapi Mosque, located adjacent to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
Rickshaw ride to the mosque, about 15 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

11:30AM

Lunch at Varanasi House

Indulge in a simple yet elegant lunch at Varanasi House, known for its local dishes.
Rickshaw ride from the mosque, about 15 minutes.
INR350, 1 hour

01:00PM

Visit Ram Nagar Fort

Take a trip to Ram Nagar Fort, where you can explore historical architecture and scenic vistas.
Taxi to Ram Nagar Fort, around 20 minutes.
INR200, 2 hours

03:30PM

Attend Traditional Music Performance

Experience traditional Varanasi music live, soaking in the rich culture and arts.
Returning to the city centre by taxi, approximately 30 minutes.
INR500, 2 hours

06:30PM

Dinner at Kashi Vishwanath Restaurant

Wrap up the day with dinner at Kashi Vishwanath Restaurant, featuring a variety of dishes.
Rickshaw ride back, about 15 minutes.
INR600, 1 hour
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Day 9: Exploring Sacred Sites

Varanasi, India

08:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at your hotel before a day of exploration.
Breakfast offered on-site.
Included, 1 hour

09:00AM

Visit Alamnagar Fort

Visit Alamnagar Fort, an offbeat site that showcases the grandeur of Varanasi's royal history.
Taxi to Alamnagar, around 30 minutes.
INR200, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Chunar Fort

Explore the Chunar Fort, known for its historical significance and panoramic views.
Taxi ride takes about 30 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

01:30PM

Lunch at a Local Dhaba

Savour a delicious and hearty meal at a local dhaba along the way, experiencing authentic flavours.
Casual dining; may require walking distance (~10 minutes).
INR250, 1 hour

03:00PM

Visit the Nav Durga Temple

Spend the afternoon at Nav Durga Temple, known for its spiritual significance and tranquil atmosphere.
Rickshaw ride to the temple, about 15 minutes.
Free, 1.5 hours

05:00PM

Attend a Local Festival

If possible, participate in a local festival happening this evening, showcasing Varanasi's rich culture.
Happening around the area; often walking distance.
Free, 2 hours

08:00PM

Dinner at The Tamarind Tree

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Tamarind Tree to end a day of sacred exploration.
Rickshaw ride back to the city, about 20 minutes.
INR600, 1 hour
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Day 10: Adventure and Spirituality

Varanasi, India

08:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Start your day with a fulfilling breakfast provided at your accommodation.
Breakfast served at the hotel.
Included, 1 hour

09:00AM

Explore the Varanasi Ganges Camp

Take part in adventure activities like canoeing or trekking offered at the Varanasi Ganges Camp.
Taxi ride to the camp, about 25 minutes.
INR1500, 3 hours

01:00PM

Lunch at the Camp

Enjoy a hearty lunch at the camp restaurant, resting after the activities.
On-site dining at the camp.
INR500, 1 hour

02:00PM

Return to the City

Head back to Varanasi, giving you time to relax before dinner.
Taxi back to the city, about 25 minutes.
Cost included in camp., 30 minutes

03:00PM

Meditation and Reflection by the Ganges

In the afternoon, reflect or meditate by the serene Ganges River for a peaceful experience.
Walking distance from your hotel, around 15 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

04:30PM

Evening Cultural Performance

Attend a local cultural performance showcasing music and dance in Varanasi.
Rickshaw ride to the venue, approximately 15 minutes.
INR500, 2 hours

07:30PM

Dinner at Indian Grill

Savour a delightful dinner at Indian Grill, ending the day on a high note.
Rickshaw ride to the restaurant, about 15 minutes.
INR700, 1 hour
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Day 11: Local Markets and Shopping

Varanasi, India

08:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at your accommodation.
Breakfast included at the hotel.
Included, 1 hour

09:00AM

Visit Local Silk Markets

Explore the famous silk markets, absorbing the rich textures and vibrant colours of Banarasi silk.
Walking distance from your hotel, around 15 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Thatheri Bazaar

Discover Thatheri Bazaar, renowned for its brassware and traditional crafts.
Walking distance from the silk markets, about 10 minutes.
Free, 1.5 hours

01:00PM

Lunch at Varanasi Cafe

Enjoy a cosy lunch at Varanasi Cafe, experiencing the local vibe.
Rickshaw ride to the cafe, around 10 minutes.
INR400, 1 hour

02:30PM

Attend a Pottery Workshop

Learn about local pottery-making techniques in a hands-on workshop.
Rickshaw ride to the studio, about 15 minutes.
INR800, 2 hours

05:00PM

Visit a Local Art Gallery

Admire works of local artists and immerse yourself in Varanasi's art scene.
Rickshaw ride from the workshop, around 15 minutes.
Variable, 2 hours

07:30PM

Dinner at The Alley

End your day with a lovely dinner at The Alley, known for its charming ambiance.
Walking distance from the art gallery, about 10 minutes.
INR600, 1 hour
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Day 12: Spiritual Reflections

Varanasi, India

08:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy the final breakfast at your hotel with views of Varanasi.
Breakfast is served at your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

09:00AM

Visit Ganga Mahal

Explore Ganga Mahal, an architectural marvel with rich history and splendid views of the Ganges.
Rickshaw ride to Ganga Mahal, about 15 minutes.
INR100, 1 hour

10:30AM

Attend a Spiritual Sharing Session

Participate in a session focused on spiritual discussions and insights from a local guru.
More information available at the hotel concierge.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Ganga View Restaurant

Savour delicious Indian cuisine with lovely views of the Ganges at The Ganga View Restaurant.
Rickshaw ride to the restaurant, around 15 minutes.
INR500, 1 hour

02:00PM

Visit Assi Ghat

Spend your last afternoon reflecting and soaking in the views at Assi Ghat.
Rickshaw ride to Assi Ghat, about 15 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

05:00PM

Collect Souvenirs

Spend time collecting souvenirs from local shops to cherish your stay in Varanasi.
Proximity to Assi Ghat; easy walking distance.
Variable, 1.5 hours

07:30PM

Farewell Dinner at Open Hand Restaurant

Conclude your 13-day journey with a memorable farewell dinner at Open Hand Restaurant.
A short walk from the souvenir shops, around 10 minutes.
INR600, 1 hour
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Day 13: Departure

Varanasi, India

08:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy your final breakfast at the hotel reminiscing about your journey.
Breakast served at the hotel.
Included, 1 hour

09:30AM

Check-Out and Departure

Check out from your hotel, ready to continue your journey filled with memories of Varanasi.
Ensure to arrange transport according to your departure schedule.
Variable based on your journey., 30 minutes
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