Cultural Immersion and Culinary Exploration in Varanasi on a Budget

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Kashi Chaat Bhandar

Start your day with local delicacies like Aloo Tikki Chaat and Lassi to fuel your exploration.
Located in the heart of Varanasi near the ghats.
INR 50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Explore one of the holiest temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, surrounded by vibrant markets.
Walk from breakfast location, around a 20-minute stroll.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Stroll along the Ganges River

Enjoy a scenic walk along the ghats, absorbing the lively atmosphere and observing daily rituals.
Walk towards Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Blue Lassi

Try the famous fruity and creamy Lassi, perfect for a refreshing afternoon break.
A short rickshaw ride from the ghats.
INR 80, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore the Banaras Hindu University

Wander through the campus grounds and take in the beautiful architecture and cultural ambience.
10-minute auto-rickshaw ride from lunch.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Evening Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat

Experience the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti, a prayer ceremony performed on the banks of the river.
Walk back to the ghats.
Free, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Vishnu Tea Center

Relish a traditional meal of Thali – filled with mouth-watering local vegetarian dishes.
A short walk from the ghat area.
INR 200, 1 hour
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Day 2: Cultural Deep Dive

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Puri Kachori

Savor delicious Puri with Chole, an authentic North Indian breakfast.
Located near Vishwanath Temple.
INR 60, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Sarnath

Explore the significant Buddhist pilgrimage site, where Buddha delivered his first sermon.
20-minute auto-rickshaw ride from Varanasi.
INR 100 (round trip), 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Aum Cafe

Enjoy a refreshing meal with a mix of Indian and international cuisine in a serene setting.
A short walk from the Sarnath complex.
INR 150, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Sarnath Museum

Discover fascinating Buddhist artifacts and the history of Sarnath.
Walk from Aum Cafe.
INR 30, 1 hour

4:00PM

Return to Varanasi

Head back to the city for an evening of local shopping.
Auto-rickshaw back to Varanasi.
Included in earlier cost, 30 mins

5:00PM

Evening Markets at Godoulia

Browse through local shops selling silk, jewelry, and traditional crafts in this vibrant market.
Walk from your accommodation.
Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Garden Restaurant

Indulge in a delightful meal with local seafood options and vegetarian specialties.
A short walk from Godoulia.
INR 250, 1 hour
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Day 3: Spiritual and Culinary Journeys

Varanasi, India

7:00AM

Early Morning Boat Ride

Experience the serenity of the Ganges at dawn, with views of ghats coming alive.
Book a boat at the ghats.
INR 200, 1 hour

8:30AM

Breakfast at Assi Ghat

Enjoy Idli and Sambar from a local vendor while soaking in the morning views.
Available near the ghat area.
INR 50, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Tulsi Manas Mandir

Marvel at the intricate carvings at this temple dedicated to the Hindu poet Tulsidas.
Walk from Assi Ghat.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Cooking Class with a Local Family

Immerse yourself in local culture by learning to cook traditional recipes.
Pre-book with a local host.
INR 700, 3 hours

3:30PM

Lunch at Kashi Caffe

Enjoy healthy and fresh vegetarian meals with a twist on traditional flavors.
A short walk from your cooking class.
INR 150, 1 hour

5:00PM

Sound and Light Show at Shivala Ghat

Experience the history of Varanasi told through a captivating sound and light display.
A rickshaw ride to the ghat.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Old Wine Shop

Perfect for reflecting on your day over delicious Tawa Paneer or Dal Makhani.
Located nearby the Ghat.
INR 200, 1 hour
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Day 4: Final Day of Discovery

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Brown Bread Bakery

Start your day with a hearty breakfast featuring freshly baked bread and pancakes.
Located close to Assi Ghat.
INR 120, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Aamrapali Museum

Gain insight into the history and culture of Varanasi through this excellent museum.
A short rickshaw ride away.
INR 50, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore the Handicraft Workshops

Witness the artisans at work, creating beautiful Banarasi silk sarees and crafts.
Check local listings for nearby workshops.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Chaat Gali

Experience a variety of street food, including Panipuri and Bhel Puri, popular among locals.
Just walk through the market area.
INR 100, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Gyanvapi Mosque

Explore this historic mosque, which stands as a monument to Varanasi's rich culture.
Nearby walking distance.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Final Boat Ride on the Ganges

Take your last opportunity to enjoy a peaceful boat ride, absorbing the energy of Varanasi one last time.
Back to the ghats.
INR 200, 1 hour

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Kashi Chat Bhandar

End your trip with a flavorful meal featuring Chaat and other street food favorites.
Close to the ghats, easy to access.
INR 150, 1 hour
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