One Day in Banaras: Discovering the Spirit of Varanasi

Day 1: Explore Varanasi

Varanasi, India

6:00AM

Early Morning Boat Ride on the Ganges

Start your day with a serene boat ride on the Ganges, witnessing the mesmerizing sunrise over the ghats, a truly magical experience.
Take a local boat from Dasaswamedh Ghat. Arrive 15 minutes early to soak in the atmosphere.
INR400, 1.5 hours

7:30AM

Breakfast at Kashi Chaat Bhandar

Indulge in a delicious traditional breakfast at Kashi Chaat Bhandar, known for its authentic Varanasi street food such as Aloo Puri and Chole Bhature.
Located near Vishwanath Gali, easily walkable from the Ghat area.
INR200, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Explore the holy Kashi Vishwanath Temple, a revered pilgrimage site known for its stunning architecture and rich history.
Located a short walk from Kashi Chaat Bhandar. Be prepared for security checks.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore the Narrow Lanes of Varanasi

Roam through the narrow lanes of Varanasi, discovering local shops, ancient architecture, and the vibrant culture of the city.
Wander around the streets near the temple area.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Varanasi's Brown Bread Bakery

Savor a healthy and hearty lunch at Brown Bread Bakery, known for its great wood-oven pizza and fresh salads.
A 10-minute rickshaw ride from the old city.
INR500, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Sarnath

Take a taxi to Sarnath, where Buddha gave his first sermon, to visit the archaeological museum and the impressive Dhamek Stupa.
Approximately 30-minute drive from Varanasi.
INR250, 2.5 hours

4:00PM

Return to Varanasi for Evening Activities

Return to Varanasi and prepare for the evening Aarti ceremony on the Ganges.
Take a taxi back to Dasaswamedh Ghat.
INR250, 1 hour

5:30PM

Attend Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat

Experience the vibrant Ganga Aarti ceremony with prayers, music, and enchanting rituals that attract visitors from around the globe.
Find a good viewing spot along the ghat area, arrive at least 30 minutes early.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Dum Pukht

Conclude your day with a delicious dinner at Dum Pukht, known for its Mughlai cuisine and elegant ambiance.
Located a short drive from the Dashashwamedh Ghat.
INR1500, 1.5 hours

8:30PM

Evening Stroll along the Ghats

Take a leisurely stroll along the ghats, reflecting on the day while enjoying the serene view of the illuminated river.
Walk along the ghats from Dasaswamedh Ghat towards Assi Ghat.
Free, 1 hour
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