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14-Day Cultural and Spiritual Exploration of Varanasi

Viewed by 96 travelers

Day 1: Arrival & Relaxation

Varanasi, India

10:00AM

Check-in and Refresh

Arrive at your hotel, such as Suryauday Haveli, and take some time to refresh after your journey.
Walking distance from the airport to the hotel.
INR 4000, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Kashi Chat Bhandar

Enjoy a delicious local meal of chaat to kickstart your culinary journey in Varanasi.
Take an auto rickshaw.
INR 200, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore the Ghats

Stroll along the iconic Ghats of Varanasi, experiencing the vibrant spiritual life by the Ganges River.
Walking tour along the riverbank.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Evening Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat

Witness the mesmerising Ganga Aarti, a spectacular prayer ceremony with lights and chants.
Walk to Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Baati Chokha

Sample traditional Awadhi dishes like chokha and baati, enjoying a homely atmosphere.
Take an auto rickshaw.
INR 500, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Spiritual Awakening

Varanasi, India

6:00AM

Morning Boat Ride on Ganges

Start your day with a serene boat ride, mesmerised by the early morning rituals performed by locals.
Head to the riverbank near your hotel.
INR 300, 2 hours

8:00AM

Breakfast at Aum Cafe

Indulge in a healthy breakfast with options like pancakes and fresh fruit juices.
Walking distance from the Ghats.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Explore one of the holiest temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, absorbing its spiritual aura.
Auto rickshaw to the temple.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Sarnath Excursion

Travel to Sarnath to visit the famous Dhamek Stupa and explore Buddhist history.
Hire a taxi for a round trip.
INR 1000, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Brown Bread Bakery

Enjoy a variety of dishes in a charming café known for fresh bakes.
Return to Varanasi via taxi.
INR 500, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore Banaras Hindu University

Wander through the vast campus, perhaps visiting the Bharat Kala Bhavan museum.
Take an auto rickshaw.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Pahalwan Lassi

Quench your thirst with a lassi and enjoy some fast food options for dinner.
Auto rickshaw back to the hotel.
INR 300, 1 hour
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Day 3: Cultural Immersion

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Aum Cafe

Savour more delectable breakfast options at this scenic café.
Walking distance from your accommodation.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit to Manikarnika Ghat

Observe the cremation rituals from a respectful distance at this significant ghat.
Walk from the café to Manikarnika Ghat.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Walking Tour of Varanasi Streets

Delve into the narrow alleys and vibrant bazaars of Varanasi, perfect for shopping and taking photographs.
Self-guided walking tour.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Vishala

Experience traditional thali dining with ample Indian vegetarian dishes served on a banana leaf.
Auto rickshaw to the restaurant.
INR 600, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Tulsi Manas Temple

Admire the exquisite marble architecture dedicated to Lord Rama, a serene place adorned with beautiful murals.
Auto rickshaw to the temple.
Free, 1 hour

3:30PM

Attend a Music Concert

Enjoy a classical Indian music performance that showcases the rich musical heritage of Varanasi.
Check local listings for performance venues.
INR 500, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Kashi Chat Bhandar

Return to a local favourite for another taste of their remarkable chaat.
Take an auto rickshaw.
INR 250, 1 hour
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Day 4: Temple Tour

Varanasi, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast buffet to fuel your day of exploration.
At your hotel.
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Durga Temple

Pay your respects at this ancient temple, known for its vivid red colour and holy significance.
Auto rickshaw to Durga Temple.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Aghor Ashram

Gain insight into the Aghori spiritual practice and the lifestyle of its practitioners here.
Walk or auto rickshaw to the ashram.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Tamarind Tree

Savour Indian and Continental dishes in a tranquil garden setting.
Auto rickshaw to the café.
INR 500, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple

Offering devotion at one of the most revered temples in Varanasi is a must.
Auto rickshaw to the temple.
Free, 1 hour

4:30PM

Free Time for Shopping

Explore the famous Silk Weaving market and shop for authentic Banarasi silk.
Walking distance from the temple.
Varies, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Varanasi Kachori House

Relish a plate of crispy kachoris paired with spicy potato sabzi, a perfect end to a busy day.
Take an auto rickshaw.
INR 300, 1 hour
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Day 5: Day Trip to Nearby Temples

Varanasi, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Fuel up on a varied buffet breakfast to prepare for your day trip.
At your hotel.
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Excursion to Kashi Vishwanath Temple & Gyanvapi Mosque

Visit these famous religious sites, absorbing their importance and history.
Book a taxi for the day.
INR 2000, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Hira Lal’s

Delight in their famous thali served with love in a bustling atmosphere.
Taxi to the restaurant.
INR 500, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum

Admire the eclectic collection of art pieces representing Indian culture.
Auto rickshaw to the museum.
INR 100, 2 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Assi Ghat

Unwind as you watch the sunset and reflect on your experiences at this popular Ghat.
Auto rickshaw from the museum.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Malaiyo Restaurant

End the day on a sweet note with some famous Malaiyo dessert and an array of other dishes.
Walk to the restaurant.
INR 400, 1 hour
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Day 6: Heritage and Culture

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Brown Bread Bakery

Enjoy a delightful breakfast in a relaxed setting with an array of bakery products.
Walking distance from hotel.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit to Ramnagar Fort

Explore the majestic fort with stunning views and a glimpse into the royal lifestyle of Varanasi.
Taxi to Ramnagar Fort.
INR 200, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Uttar Pradesh Tourism Restaurant

Indulge in a selection of traditional dishes with beautiful panoramic views of the river.
Taxi back from the fort.
INR 600, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Chunar Fort

Admire the grand architecture of this historic fort perched above the Ganges.
Book a taxi for this trip.
INR 1000, 3 hours

5:00PM

Return to Varanasi for Relaxation

Take some downtime to freshen up after a day of exploration.
Taxi back to Varanasi.
INR 300, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Hira Lal’s

Revisit Hira Lal's for their scrumptious thali as a fitting end to the day.
Auto rickshaw to the restaurant.
INR 500, 1 hour
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Day 7: A Deeper Dive

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hira Lal’s

Start with traditional Indian breakfasts such as puri, sabzi, or idli.
At Hira Lal’s.
INR 300, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Tulsi Manas Temple

Return to this iconic temple to delve deeper into its history and significance.
Travel by auto rickshaw.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Varanasi's Antique Shops

Wander through shops selling vintage items and handicrafts reminiscent of the city’s heritage.
Self-guided walking tour.
Varies, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Shivala Cafe

Savour light and refreshing meals at this quaint cafe with a view.
Auto rickshaw to café.
INR 500, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Ashoka Pillar

See the ancient Ashoka Pillar at Sarnath that stands testament to India's rich history.
Auto rickshaw or taxi to Sarnath.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Personal Reflection Time

Find a place by the riverbank to relax and reflect on your journey.
Walk over to a quiet ghat.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Raaj Bhadur

Delight in North Indian cuisine at this famous restaurant known for its ambience.
Auto rickshaw to Raaj Bhadur.
INR 800, 1 hour
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Day 8: Culinary Delights

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Brown Bread Bakery

Kick off your day with a delightful selection of baked goods and continental breakfast.
Walking distance from the hotel.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:00AM

Cooking Class Experience

Join a local cooking class to learn how to make traditional Varanasi dishes.
Take a taxi to the cooking school.
INR 1500, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Your Cooking School

Enjoy a delicious meal prepared from your cooking lessons earlier in the day.
At the cooking school.
Included in class cost, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the Vishwanatha Gali

Stroll through the bustling street known for its shops and cafes selling local wares.
Walking from the cooking school.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Relax at Assi Ghat

Unwind as you revisit Assi Ghat, enjoying the lively atmosphere and river show.
Auto rickshaw.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Puran Da Dhaba

Experience authentic North Indian cuisine in a casual yet inviting atmosphere.
Auto rickshaw.
INR 500, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Varanasi

Day 9: Wandering the Ghats

Varanasi, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Indulge in the included buffet breakfast at your hotel.
At your hotel.
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Early Morning Ghat Walk

Experience the serene beauty of the ghats as the sunrise paints the sky with colours.
Take a guided walking tour.
INR 500, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit the Gyanvapi Mosque

Explore the monumental mosque, capturing the essence of Varanasi's religious diversity.
Walk from the ghats to the mosque.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Hira Lal’s

Relish lunch at a popular spot known for its hearty servings.
Auto rickshaw to restaurant.
INR 500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Tulsi Manas Temple

Return to gain a deeper understanding of this architectural gem.
Travel by auto rickshaw.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore Local Arts & Crafts

Discover the arts and crafts of Varanasi through local exhibits and galleries.
Walking tour around Vishwanatha Gali.
Varies, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Mother’s Kitchen

Dine at a restaurant known for its variety of Indian and continental dishes.
Auto rickshaw to the restaurant.
INR 600, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Varanasi

Day 10: Religious Reverence

Varanasi, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Wake up to a hearty breakfast before a day of religious exploration.
At your hotel.
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Revisit this sacred site, connecting with its atmosphere and spirituality.
Auto rickshaw to the temple.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Assi Ghat

Engage with the lively atmosphere at this popular ghat, an important pilgrimage site.
Walk from the temple.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at The Brown Bread Bakery

Enjoy a relaxing lunch at this beloved cafe, known for its wholesome food.
Auto rickshaw back to the café.
INR 500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Reflections at Manikarnika Ghat

Spend quiet moments reflecting on the profound spiritual significance of this holy site.
Walking distance from the café.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Attend a Yoga Class

Participate in a rejuvenating yoga class by the Ganges to connect mind, body, and spirit.
Book a local class online.
INR 800, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Malaiyo Restaurant

Savour a wide range of dishes, ensuring to try the signature Malaiyo dessert.
Auto rickshaw.
INR 500, 1 hour
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Day 11: Back to Nature

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Aum Cafe

Relaxed breakfast with fresh options in the heart of Varanasi.
Walking distance from hotel.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:30AM

Excursion to the Bird Sanctuary

Take a break from the city hustle with a visit to the nearby bird sanctuary, enjoying nature’s peace.
Book a local taxi.
INR 1200, 3 hours

1:00PM

Packed Lunch in the Park

Relish a packed lunch while being amidst the beautiful surroundings of nature.
Bring your lunch or order from a local cafe to pack.
INR 300, 1 hour

2:00PM

Bird Watching and Nature Walk

Spend some time bird watching and enjoying a peaceful stroll.
At the sanctuary.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Return to Varanasi

Head back to Varanasi for evening relaxation.
Taxi back to Varanasi.
INR 1200, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Pahalwan Lassi

Dive into the local culture by indulging in some famous lassi and light dinner.
Auto rickshaw to restaurant.
INR 300, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Varanasi

Day 12: Relax & Reflect

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast to start your day.
At your hotel.
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit to the Balaji Temple

Pay homage at this temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, a peaceful spot for reflection.
Auto rickshaw to temple.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Relax by the Ganges

Spend some quiet hours by the river, embracing the tranquil environment.
Walking to a serene ghat.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Mother’s Kitchen

Dine on hearty dishes, reflecting on the beauty of Varanasi.
Walk to the café.
INR 600, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit to the Assi Ghat

Take in the energy of one of the most popular ghats in Varanasi, filled with local activity.
Walking from the café.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Attend a Local Pottery Class

Engage in a hands-on pottery class to absorb the local arts and crafts.
Book a local class online.
INR 700, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Hira Lal’s

A fitting end to your day with some delightful thali at your favourite eatery.
Auto rickshaw to restaurant.
INR 500, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Varanasi

Day 13: Explore and Shop

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pahalwan Lassi

Revisit the famous lassi shop for a refreshing breakfast.
Walking distance from hotel.
INR 300, 1 hour

9:00AM

Shopping at Chowk

Head to the bustling bazaars of Chowk for vibrant shopping, including silk and handicrafts.
Auto rickshaw to Chowk.
Varies, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Local Cuisine

Try out some street food delicacies like jalebi and kachori in the market squares.
Walking around Chowk.
Varies, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at The Kashi Chat Bhandar

Savour Varanasi’s famous street food dishes in an authentic atmosphere.
Walking distance from the shopping area.
INR 250, 1 hour

3:00PM

Silk Weaving Workshop

Visit a local silk weaving workshop to see the artisans at work and learn about weaving techniques.
Near Chowk.
INR 200, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Relax at your hotel

Take some time to unwind after a thrilling day exploring and shopping.
Back to hotel.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Puran Da Dhaba

Savour another delightful meal at this popular local restaurant.
Auto rickshaw to Puran Da Dhaba.
INR 500, 1 hour
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Day 14: Farewell Varanasi

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a last breakfast at the hotel, taking in the delightful views of Varanasi.
At your hotel.
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Leisure Walk Around the Ghats

Take a final stroll along the ghats, soaking in the serene beauty and vibrant life.
Walking distance from hotel.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Local Gift Shops

Purchase some memories of your journey, like silk scarves or brass artifacts.
Walking around the ghats.
Varies, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Aum Cafe

Revisit Aum Cafe for a delightful farewell meal with the last taste of local flavours.
At the café.
INR 500, 1 hour

2:30PM

Head to the Airport

Prepare for your departure, filled with cherished memories from Varanasi.
Take an auto rickshaw to the airport.
INR 300, 1 hour
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