Ultimate 3-Day Varanasi Travel Guide: Explore the Best Places to Visit

Day 1: Cultural Exploration

Varanasi, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Aum Cafe

Start your day with a delightful breakfast overlooking the Ganges River, enjoying their famous pancakes and masala chai.
Walk to the Ganges River after breakfast.
INR300, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Explore this historic and sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, an important pilgrimage site.
Walk from Aum Cafe to the temple.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Stroll along Dasaswamedh Ghat

Enjoy the scenic views along one of the most renowned ghats, often bustling with activity.
Walk along the riverfront.
Free, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe

Savor delicious vegetarian pizzas and fresh juices in a relaxing atmosphere amidst the greenery.
Take a short auto-rickshaw ride from Dasaswamedh Ghat.
INR600, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Discover Sarnath

Visit the historical site where Buddha delivered his first sermon and see the ancient stupas and museums.
Hire a taxi for a short ride to Sarnath.
INR300, 3 hours

5:30 PM

Sunset Boat Ride

Experience the tranquil beauty of the Ganges during sunset while boating along the river.
Return to Dasaswamedh Ghat for the boat ride.
INR400, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Dinner at The Brown Bread Bakery

Relish homemade breads, pasta, and desserts at this cozy restaurant, enjoying a meal crafted with love.
Walk from the ghat to the restaurant.
INR500, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Spiritual Sojourn

Varanasi, India

7:00 AM

Yoga Class at Assi Ghat

Start your day with a rejuvenating yoga session at one of the most peaceful ghats in Varanasi.
Walk to Assi Ghat, a few minutes from your hotel.
INR500, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Breakfast at Surya Cafe

Enjoy a hearty breakfast here, sampling their delicious Indian omelettes and fresh fruit juices.
Walk back to Surya Cafe after yoga.
INR400, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Explore the Banaras Hindu University

Visit the impressive campus, including the Vishwanath Temple and the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum.
Take a rickshaw to the university.
Free, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Kashi Chat Bhandar

Indulge in local delicacies like chaat and lassi at this popular street food joint.
Short auto-rickshaw ride from BHU.
INR250, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Visit Manikarnika Ghat

Witness the spiritual rituals and cremation ceremonies at one of the oldest ghats, offering profound insights into life and death.
Walk towards the ghat after lunch.
Free, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Traditional Weaving Workshop

Participate in a workshop to learn about the famous Banarsi silk weaving techniques and perhaps purchase some souvenirs.
Short auto-rickshaw ride to the workshop.
INR700, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Ganga Aarti Ceremony

Be captivated by the magnificent Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat, a spectacular display of devotion.
Walk to Dashashwamedh Ghat to find a good viewing spot.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:30 PM

Dinner at Mangi Ferra

Enjoy a fine dining experience with a blend of Indian and Continental cuisine in a beautiful garden setup.
Short walk from Dashashwamedh Ghat to the restaurant.
INR800, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Heritage and Culture

Varanasi, India

9:00 AM

Breakfast at Varanasi Canteen

Start with a simple yet delicious breakfast featuring local specialties and chai.
Walk to Varanasi Canteen from your accommodation.
INR250, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Explore the Ramnagar Fort

Venture to this fascinating fort located across the Ganges, exploring its museum showcasing the heritage of Varanasi.
Take a boat across the river to the fort.
INR300, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at The Dum Pukht

Enjoy an elegant lunch featuring Mughlai cuisine served in a refined setting.
Take a taxi back to the city for this restaurant.
INR1200, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Visit Tulsi Manas Temple

Marvel at the beautiful marble structure and serene surroundings of this temple dedicated to Lord Rama.
Short ride to get to the temple.
Free, 1 hour

4:00 PM

Explore the local markets

Wander through the vibrant markets of Varanasi, where you can find textiles, spices, and more.
Take a rickshaw to the main market area.
Free (shopping on your own), 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Cafe Coffee Day

Wrap up your Varanasi adventure with a casual dinner at this popular café, ideal for fresh coffee and snacks.
Walk to the café from the market.
INR350, 1 hour
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