3-Day Cultural Journey in Varanasi, India

Day 1: Spiritual Discovery

Varanasi, India

6:00AM

Ganges Sunrise Boat Ride

Start your day with a serene boat ride on the Ganges as the sun rises, illuminating the ghats with a magical glow.
Take a boat from Dashashwamedh Ghat.
INR 500, 1.5 hours

8:00AM

Breakfast at Baba Lassi

Enjoy a delicious lassi and traditional Indian breakfast at Baba Lassi, known for their rich flavors and local ambiance.
Located near the main ghats, easily reachable by foot.
INR 150, 1 hour

9:30AM

Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Visit the renowned Kashi Vishwanath Temple, a sacred site for Hindus and an architectural marvel.
Walking distance from Baba Lassi.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore the Ghats

Stroll along the ghats, soaking in the spiritual atmosphere and watching the daily rituals unfold.
Walk along the Ganges; many ghats are closely located.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Kashi Chat Bhandar

Savor some iconic street food like chaat at Kashi Chat Bhandar, a local favorite frequented by both tourists and locals.
Short ride via auto-rickshaw from the ghats.
INR 200, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Sarnath

Take a trip to Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon; explore the museum and ancient ruins.
Hire a taxi or an auto-rickshaw; it’s about 10 km from Varanasi.
INR 20 (entry fee for museum), 3 hours

6:00PM

Ganga Aarti Ceremony

Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat, a spiritual experience like no other.
Arrive early for a good spot; it’s right where you took the morning boat ride.
Free, 1 hour

8:00PM

Dinner at Varanasi Cafe

Enjoy dinner featuring local specialties, including biryani and palak paneer, at Varanasi Cafe, a cozy spot with a great vibe.
Located near the ghats, easily reachable by foot.
INR 400, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Exploration

Varanasi, India

7:00AM

Morning Yoga Session

Start the day with a revitalizing yoga session by the Ganges, with tranquil views enhancing your experience.
Various yoga instructors conduct classes near the ghats.
INR 500, 1 hour

8:30AM

Breakfast at Bread of Life

Relish a continental breakfast at Bread of Life, known for its delicious pastries and cozy ambiance.
A short walk from the yoga location.
INR 350, 1 hour

10:00AM

Banaras Hindu University

Visit the sprawling campus of Banaras Hindu University, home to impressive architecture and the ancient Vishwanath Temple.
Take an auto-rickshaw; located around 6 km from the ghats.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Corner House

Enjoy some delicious North Indian cuisine, including thalis, at The Corner House, which has a lovely atmosphere.
Short ride from BHU.
INR 300, 1 hour

2:00PM

Shopping at Vishwanath Gali

Spend the afternoon shopping for beautiful silk sarees and handicrafts at Vishwanath Gali, a vibrant and colorful market.
A short walk from the restaurant.
Varies, 2 hours

4:30PM

Explore local art galleries

Visit local art galleries to witness contemporary art from regional artists, enriching your understanding of Varanasi’s culture.
Many galleries are located close to Vishwanath Gali.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Evening Riverfront Stroll

Take a leisurely stroll along the Ganges, enjoying the evening breeze and the vibrant atmosphere.
Accessible from any of the ghats.
Free, 1 hour

8:00PM

Dinner at Uttar Pradesh Biryani

Indulge in a hearty meal of biryani and kebabs at Uttar Pradesh Biryani, famous for its delicious flavors.
A short auto-rickshaw ride from the ghats.
INR 500, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Spiritual Return

Varanasi, India

7:00AM

Visit Tulsi Manas Temple

Start your day with a visit to Tulsi Manas Temple, an exquisite shrine dedicated to the poet-saint Tulsidas.
A short auto-rickshaw ride from the city center.
Free, 1 hour

8:30AM

Breakfast at Brown Bread Bakery

Enjoy a wholesome breakfast at Brown Bread Bakery, famous for its organic fare and relaxing atmosphere.
Close to the temple.
INR 300, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Assi Ghat

Take a trip to Assi Ghat, one of the quieter ghats known for its scenic views and culture.
Reachable by auto-rickshaw.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ganga View Restaurant

Dine with a view at Ganga View Restaurant, known for its lovely balcony overlooking the river.
Located near Assi Ghat.
INR 400, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore the Ramnagar Fort

Explore Ramnagar Fort, a beautiful historical site that offers insight into the royal history of Varanasi.
Take an auto-rickshaw; about 14 km away.
INR 100 (entry fee), 2 hours

5:00PM

Return to Sarnath (if missed)

If you missed Sarnath on Day 2, visit now to take in its tranquility and historical depth.
Auto-rickshaw back to Sarnath.
INR 20 (entry fee for museum), 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Om Cafe

Gather for a relaxed dinner at Om Cafe, offering a fusion of Indian and continental dishes in a laid-back setting.
Near the ghats.
INR 350, 1.5 hours
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