Exploring the Spiritual Heart of India: A 4-Day Itinerary in Varanasi Junction

Day 1: Cultural Immersion

Varanasi, India

6:30AM

Morning Ganga Aarti

Start your day by witnessing the breathtaking sunrise along the Ganges River during the morning Aarti ceremony.
Take a short walk to Dashashwamedh Ghat.
INR0, 1 hour

8:00AM

Breakfast at Kashi Chat Bhandar

Enjoy delectable local breakfast options such as kachoris and jalebis at this famed eatery.
A 10-minute auto-rickshaw ride from the ghat.
INR150, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore the Ghats

Stroll along the riverbanks, absorbing the spiritual atmosphere and indulging in scenic vistas.
Walk along the main ghats covering around 2 km.
INR0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Blue Lassi

Dive into a refreshing lassi and enjoy local vegetarian dishes in a cozy setting.
It is a short walk from the Ghats.
INR300, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Experience the spiritual significance of one of Hinduism's most revered temples dedicated to Lord Shiva.
A 15-minute walk from the restaurant.
INR0, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore the Narrow Alleys

Wander through the vibrant, narrow streets of Varanasi, discovering local shops and artisan crafts.
This is a walking expedition through the old city.
INR0, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Evening Ganga Aarti

Witness the majestic evening Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat, where flames dance, and the atmosphere electrifies.
Return to Dashashwamedh Ghat for the evening ceremony.
INR0, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Banaras Cafe

Savor a traditional Indian dinner featuring dishes such as Paneer Tikka and Dal Makhani.
A short 5-minute walk from the ghat.
INR500, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Historical Journey

Sarnath, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Ganga Cafe

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast, including South Indian dishes like dosa and idli.
A short 15-minute auto-rickshaw ride to the cafe.
INR250, 1 hour

8:30AM

Visit Sarnath

Travel to Sarnath, the site of Buddha's first sermon and explore the Dhamek Stupa and ancient ruins.
Take a private taxi to Sarnath, about 15 km away.
INR1000, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Bodhgaya Restaurant

Enjoy delicious vegetarian fare inspired by Buddhist cuisine, perfect after a morning of exploration.
Short 10-minute drive from Sarnath.
INR400, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Sarnath Museum

Discover a wealth of Buddhist artifacts and history that echo the significance of this sacred space.
Walk to the museum, around 10 minutes from the restaurant.
INR200, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Return to Varanasi

Head back to Varanasi and unwind at your hotel or guesthouse.
Private taxi back to Varanasi, about 15 km.
INR1000, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Leisure Time

Spend some leisurely time at your accommodation or nearby shops before dinner.
Explore local streets or relax.
INR0, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at The Spice Factory

Delight in authentic Indian dishes with bold flavors, such as Butter Chicken and Biryani.
A 15-minute auto-rickshaw ride.
INR600, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Local Life & Learning

Varanasi, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at Aum Cafe

Enjoy a healthy breakfast comprising muesli, yogurt, and fresh fruits with a riverside view.
A short 5-minute walk from your hotel.
INR300, 1 hour

9:00AM

Banaras Hindu University

Visit this prestigious university campus, rich in history, and explore the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum.
Take a taxi for a 20-minute drive.
INR200, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit the Silk Weaving Handloom

Witness the art of handloom weaving and shop for exquisite silk products around the premises.
Short drive or auto-rickshaw to a nearby weaving center.
INR0, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Varanasi Kitchen

Dig into flavorful North Indian cuisine such as Chole Bhature and Bhindi Masala.
Take a 10-minute auto-rickshaw ride.
INR400, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Tulsi Manas Mandir

Marvel at this beautiful temple dedicated to the epic Ramayana and enjoy its serene gardens.
A short 15-minute walk from the restaurant.
INR0, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Durga Temple

Explore the famous Durga Temple, also known as the Monkey Temple, and enjoy its vibrant atmosphere.
Take a 10-minute walk from the previous site.
INR0, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Suraj Restaurant

Taste local dishes served in a vibrant setting, offering a variety of veg and non-veg options.
A short walk back to your accommodation.
INR500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Reflection & Relaxation

Varanasi, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at Shree Cafe

Start your day with a wholesome breakfast of parathas and chai at this charming spot.
A short walk from your accommodation.
INR250, 1 hour

9:00AM

Boat Ride on the Ganges

Take a peaceful boat ride on the Ganges, soaking in the spiritual essence of the river.
Head to the ghats, about a 5-minute walk away.
INR500, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Visit Manikarnika Ghat

Experience the sacredness of this cremation ghat, integral to Varanasi's cultural fabric.
Walking distance from the boat landing point.
INR0, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Sri Annapurna Restaurant

Feast on traditional Thali that showcases the diverse flavors of Varanasi’s cuisine.
20-minute walk back toward your hotel.
INR400, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Gyanvapi Mosque

Explore this mosque which holds historical significance and offers a contrasting perspective of Varanasi's spirituality.
10-minute walk from the restaurant.
INR0, 1 hour

3:00PM

Attend a Classical Music Concert

Immerse in India's rich musical traditions at a live concert performed by local artists.
Check local listings for venues, usually around the ghats.
INR300, 2 hours

5:30PM

Final Dinner at Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe

End your trip in style by enjoying a unique fusion of Italian and Indian cuisine.
Take a 10-minute walk from concert venue.
INR500, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability