10-Day Enrichment Journey: Varanasi and Srinagar

Day 1: Arriving in Varanasi

Varanasi, India

12:00PM

Check-In

Arrive at your hotel and freshen up before delving into the cultural heart of Varanasi.
Head to your hotel via a pre-booked taxi from the airport.
INR3000, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Kashi Chat Bhandar

Savor local delicacies such as chaat and lassi, experiencing Varanasi's vibrant street food culture.
Walk 10 minutes to Kashi Chat Bhandar from your hotel.
INR300, 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit Sarnath

Explore the sacred site where Buddha gave his first sermon, rich in history and serene ambiance.
Hire an auto-rickshaw for a 20-minute ride to Sarnath.
INR100, 3 hours

7:00PM

Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat

Witness a captivating ritual performed on the banks of the Ganges—a spiritual experience like no other.
Return via auto-rickshaw to the Ghat, approximately 30 minutes.
Free, 1.5 hours

9:00PM

Dinner at Dum Pukht

Enjoy a traditional Awadhi dinner in a royal setting, featuring aromatic biryani and other Mughlai delicacies.
Head to Dum Pukht by auto-rickshaw, about 15 minutes away.
INR1000, 2 hours
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Day 2: Exploring Varanasi

Varanasi, India

7:00AM

Morning Boat Ride on Ganges

Experience the dawn over the river as you glide along, witnessing the morning rituals of the locals.
Walk 10 minutes to the riverbank.
INR500, 1 hour

8:30AM

Breakfast at Bread of Life Bakery

Indulge in freshly baked bread and coffee, a lovely start to your day.
5-minute walk from the riverbank.
INR250, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Visit one of the most revered Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, enveloped in sacredness.
10 minutes by auto-rickshaw.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Blue Lassi

Try a variety of lassis in this famous spot, reputed for its unique flavors.
5 minutes’ walk from the temple.
INR200, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Banaras Hindu University

Stroll through this prestigious institution’s charming campus and enthralling museums.
15 minutes via auto-rickshaw.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Stroll Through the Ghats

Wander along the Ganges’ ghats and absorb the local life and culture amidst the scenic beauty.
Walk back to the ghats from the university.
Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Kerala Café

Flavorful South Indian dishes await you in this cozy cafe, a delightful culinary contrast.
20 minutes via auto-rickshaw.
INR600, 2 hours
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Day 3: Cultural Exploration

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pahalwan Lassi

Enjoy a hearty lassi and snacks, perfect for fueling your next adventures.
10 minutes by auto-rickshaw.
INR150, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Tulsi Manas Temple

Marvel at the stunning architecture and lush gardens of this temple dedicated to Lord Rama.
15 minutes via auto-rickshaw.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Ramnagar Fort

Discover this historic fort that offers beautiful views of the Ganges and rich history.
30 minutes via auto-rickshaw.
INR200, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Kashi Cafe

Savor Italian meals with a local flair at this charming café next to the Ghat.
30 minutes back to the Ghat.
INR500, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Local Handicraft Shops

Pick up exquisite handmade goods and textiles, a perfect memento from Varanasi.
Short walk from the café.
Free (shopping costs vary), 2 hours

6:00PM

Sunset at Assi Ghat

Relax and enjoy the mesmerizing sunset view with locals and pilgrims alike.
10 minutes' walk.
Free, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Aum Cafe

Relish organic vegetarian dishes in this laid-back ambiance that lets you unwind after the day.
5 minutes' walk.
INR400, 2 hours
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Day 4: Travel to Srinagar

Srinagar, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel before departing Varanasi.
Breakfast at the hotel.
INR500, 1 hour

8:00AM

Flight to Srinagar

Catch a morning flight to Srinagar, taking in the Himalayan views along the way.
Taxi to Varanasi Airport, approx 30 mins.
INR4000, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Transfer to Dal Lake

Upon arrival, head directly to the iconic Dal Lake, immersed in natural beauty.
Taxi from Srinagar Airport to Dal Lake, about 30 minutes.
INR1000, 1 hour

12:00PM

Check-In at Houseboat

Experience staying in a stunning houseboat, a unique accommodation option on Dal Lake.
Direct transfer to your booked houseboat.
INR5000, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch on Houseboat

Enjoy a traditional Kashmiri meal served right on your floating residence.
Served directly in the houseboat.
Included with houseboat stay, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Shikara Ride on Dal Lake

Take a serene ride on a wooden boat, immersing yourself in the breathtaking landscapes.
Arrange a ride from your houseboat.
INR500, 2 hours

5:30PM

Explore Floating Markets

Visit the unique floating markets, indulging in local crafts and fresh produce.
Visit by Shikara from your houseboat.
INR300, 2 hours

8:30PM

Dinner at Ahdoos Restaurant

Delight in authentic Kashmiri cuisine with flavors that enhance the local ingredients.
Taxi to the restaurant, about 15 minutes.
INR700, 2 hours
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Day 5: Leisurely Srinagar

Srinagar, India

8:00AM

Breakfast on Houseboat

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast with beautiful views of the lake, a perfect start to your day.
Served on the houseboat.
Included with houseboat stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Mughal Gardens

Explore the enchanting Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh, known for their stunning landscapes and historical importance.
Taxi to the gardens, about 30 minutes.
INR300, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Shamyana Restaurant

Relish a fusion of Kashmiri and Indian dishes, sitting against the backdrop of Dal Lake.
Nearby in 10 minutes by taxi.
INR600, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Local Handicrafts

Discover intricate handmade crafts including Pashmina shawls and carpets, a highlight of Kashmiri culture.
Wander the local markets.
Free (shopping costs vary), 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit Jamia Masjid

Marvel at the intricate wooden architecture of this historical mosque located in the heart of Srinagar.
Nearby, about 15 minutes by auto-rickshaw.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Stroll Around Dal Lake

Take a leisurely walk along the lake, soaking in the views and ambiance at sunset.
Short walk from Jamia Masjid.
Free, 1 hour

8:00PM

Dinner at The Mughal Darbar

Experience authentic Kashmiri Wazwan, a traditional feast that is a gastronomic delight.
Taxi to restaurant, about 10 minutes.
INR800, 2 hours
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Day 6: Nature Day in Srinagar

Srinagar, India

7:30AM

Breakfast on Houseboat

Enjoy another beautiful morning meal with more views of the magical Dal Lake.
Served on the houseboat.
Included with houseboat stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Day Trip to Gulmarg

Head out to Gulmarg for stunning scenery, and perhaps take a ride on the Gulmarg Gondola.
Taxi to Gulmarg, about 1.5 hours.
INR2000 for transportation, 1.5 hours to reach

4:00PM

Return to Srinagar

Head back to Srinagar while soaking in the mountains again, perfect to relax after an exciting day.
Same taxi back.
Included in original ride., 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Evening Tea on Houseboat

Relax with a traditional Kashmiri kehwa, served with snacks as you unwind post-day-trip.
Served at your houseboat.
Free, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Konkan Café

Savor a delightful dinner with a fusion of Kashmiri and South Indian cuisine.
Taxi to the restaurant, about 15 minutes away.
INR800, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Discovering Srinagar

Srinagar, India

8:00AM

Breakfast on Houseboat

Start your day with a fresh breakfast while enjoying views of the lake.
Served on the houseboat.
Included with houseboat stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Dachigam National Park

Spot the beautiful Kashmir stag and explore the stunning natural landscapes.
Taxi to Dachigam, about 45 minutes.
INR300, 2.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at a Local Dhaba

Taste authentic North Indian dishes that locals enjoy for a genuine experience.
Return to Srinagar, about 45 minutes.
INR300, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Shankaracharya Temple

Climb up to this temple for breathtaking panoramic views of Srinagar.
Taxi to the temple, about 30 minutes.
INR100, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Explore Old City

Walk through the historical lanes of Srinagar where you can see beautiful architecture and culture.
Taxi to the Old City area, about 15 minutes.
Free (shopping costs vary), 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Cafe deolais

Enjoy delectable fusion continental cuisine in an artistic atmosphere.
Nearby, about 10 minutes' walk.
INR700, 2 hours
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Day 8: Cultural Immersion in Srinagar

Srinagar, India

8:00AM

Breakfast on Houseboat

Savor a final breakfast among the serene waters of Dal Lake.
Served on the houseboat.
Included with houseboat stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Shahr-i-Khaas

Discover artisans in the old town and shop for authentic handicrafts, especially Pashmina.
Taxi to Shahr-i-Khaas area, about 15 minutes.
Free (shopping costs vary), 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Khashi

Savor Kashmiri specialties in a well-kept traditional atmosphere.
Nearby, about 10 minutes’ walk.
INR600, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Pari Mahal

Admire Mughal architecture and stunning gardens positioned high above Srinagar.
Taxi to Pari Mahal, about 20 minutes away.
INR200, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Explore Local Parks

Unwind in beautiful gardens like Chashme Shahi or Nishat Bagh, reflecting Mughal-era design.
Return via taxi, about 30 minutes.
INR200, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Chashme Shahi

Enjoy a luxurious dining experience with Kashmiri flavors overlooking the gardens.
Nearby in 10-minute taxi ride.
INR800, 2 hours
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Day 9: Final Day in Srinagar

Srinagar, India

7:30AM

Breakfast on Houseboat

Have a relaxed breakfast while taking in the serenity of your floating home.
Served on the houseboat.
Included with houseboat stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Hazratbal Shrine

Experience the peaceful atmosphere of this revered mosque on the shores of Dal Lake.
Young taxi ride, about 10 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Houseboat Relaxation Time

Take time to unwind or read a book while observing the lake life.
Staying on your houseboat.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Niramish Restaurant

Sample Kashmiri vegetarian dishes in a joyful setting.
Taxi to restaurant, about 10 minutes.
INR600, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Final Stroll Around Dal Lake

Take a leisurely walk along the lake one last time before heading home.
Short walk from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Early Dinner at KFC (Optional)

If you'd like a quick and familiar meal before your flight.
Located near the airport, taxi about 20 minutes.
INR500, 1 hour
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Day 10: Departure from Srinagar

Srinagar, India

7:00AM

Breakfast on Houseboat

Savor a final breakfast amidst the beautiful surroundings of Dal Lake.
Served on the houseboat.
Included with houseboat stay, 1 hour

8:30AM

Check-Out and Transfer to Airport

Pack your bags and check-out, taking in the last glimpses of stunning Srinagar.
Taxi to the airport, about 30 minutes away.
INR1000, 1 hour

10:30AM

Departure from Srinagar Airport

Catch your flight home, cherishing the splendid memories of your unforgettable journey.
End of trip.
Flight cost varies, N/A
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