2-Day Road Trip Itinerary in Varanasi (Kaashi), India

Day 1: Exploring Varanasi

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Brown Bread Bakery

Start your day with a wholesome breakfast at Brown Bread Bakery, renowned for its freshly baked goods and organic ingredients.
Located in the Assi Ghat area, it’s easily accessible by car.
INR300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

After your meal, immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere at one of the holiest temples dedicated to Lord Shiva.
A short 10-minute drive from the bakery will take you to the temple.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Ghats

Wander along the iconic Ghats of the Ganges, witnessing the morning rituals that happen as the sun rises over the water.
Take a 5-minute walk from the temple to reach the Ghats.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Dum Pukht

For lunch, savour the royal Mughlai cuisine at Dum Pukht, where traditional techniques are involved in preparing sumptuous dishes.
A 15-minute drive from the Ghats will get you to this elegant restaurant.
INR1200, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Sarnath

Drive to the serene town of Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon after enlightenment; explore the stupas and museums.
It's about a 30-minute drive to Sarnath.
INR500 (museum fees), 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Evening Ganga Aarti

Return to Varanasi and witness the mesmerising Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, a spiritual experience unlike any other.
Around 30 minutes back to the Ghat from Sarnath.
Free, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Benarsi hat

Finish your day with a delightful meal at Benarsi hat, where local delicacies are served in a traditional setting.
Just a short 15-minute drive from Dashashwamedh Ghat.
INR800, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Immersion

Sarnath, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Varanasi's The Little Cafe

Begin your second day with a comforting breakfast at The Little Cafe, known for its delicious pancakes and fresh fruit.
Return to Varanasi, a 20-minute drive will get you there.
INR400, 1 hour

9:30AM

Morning Boat Ride

Experience Varanasi from the water with a refreshing boat ride on the Ganges, offering unique views of the city.
A 10-minute drive to the nearest ghat for boat rides.
INR500, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Manikarnika Ghat

Gain insights into the customs of life and death at the famous Manikarnika Ghat, one of the oldest burning ghats.
A 5-minute walk from the boat dock.
Free (but donations welcome), 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Kashi Chat Bhandar

Enjoy a classic local meal at Kashi Chat Bhandar, famous for its chat items and street food fare.
A short 15-minute walk through the vibrant streets.
INR300, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Local Markets

Spend time exploring the bustling local markets; indulge in some shopping for traditional Banarasi silk saris and handicrafts.
A 10-minute drive from the restaurant.
Free (shopping expenses vary), 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Banaras Hindu University

Discover the renowned Banaras Hindu University, admire its architecture, and take in the peaceful surroundings.
A 20-minute drive from the market.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Varuna Restaurant

Close your trip with a grand dinner at Varuna Restaurant, known for its diverse menu that fuses Indian and continental cuisine.
Only a 15-minute drive back to the restaurant before heading home.
INR1000, 1.5 hours
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