3-Day Budget-Friendly Adventure in Varanasi - January 2025

Day 1: Cultural Exploration

Varanasi, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Brown Bread Bakery

Kick off your day with freshly baked, organic bread and a cup of chai at this famous café popular among locals and visitors alike.
Walk from your accommodation to the café, approximately a 10-minute stroll.
INR200, 1 hour

8:00AM

Morning Boat Ride on the Ganges

Embrace the tranquility of Varanasi with a sunrise boat ride, witnessing the mesmerizing rituals on the ghats.
Head to Assi Ghat, a short 15-minute walk from the bakery.
INR300, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Explore one of the most sacred temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, steeped in spiritual significance.
Take a local rickshaw for INR50 to reach the temple.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Kashi Chaat Bhandar

Dive into the local street food scene with delicious chaat, a must-try in Varanasi.
It’s a 5-minute walk from the temple.
INR150, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit Sarnath

Take a trip to Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon, and visit the museum to learn more about Buddhism.
Catch a rickshaw for approximately 30 minutes, costing INR200.
INR500 for museum entry + rickshaw fee, 3 hours

4:30PM

Return to Varanasi

Travel back to Varanasi city.
Use the same rickshaw for the return journey.
INR200, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Evening Ganga Aarti

Experience the spectacular Ganga Aarti, an enchanting Hindu ritual with music and lights beside the river.
Head to Dashashwamedh Ghat, a 10-minute walk from your accommodation.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Varanasi's Local Dhaba

Savor local cuisine at a dhaba where you can enjoy dal, rice, and other affordable regional dishes.
Located near the ghat area, a short walk from the evening ceremony.
INR250, 1 hour
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Day 2: Nature and Relaxation

Varanasi, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Enjoy a simple breakfast at your hotel, featuring local dishes like poha or idli.
Convenient and no travel needed.
INR100, 1 hour

8:30AM

Stroll along the Ghats

Take a leisurely walk along the ghats, soaking in the peaceful morning atmosphere and observing the daily rituals.
Explore on foot, starting from your hotel.
Free, 2 hours

10:30AM

Visit Manikarnika Ghat

Witness the ancient practices of cremation on this sacred ghat, honoring tradition and spirituality.
A short walk from where you are.
Free, 1 hour

11:30AM

Coffee at Aum Cafe

Recharge with a delicious coffee or smoothie at this serene spot known for its ambiance.
A 15-minute stroll to the cafe.
INR150, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Dosa Cafe

Enjoy south Indian dishes like dosa and sambhar, perfect for a filling meal on a budget.
It's only a 5-minute walk from Aum Cafe.
INR200, 1 hour

2:00PM

Relax at Assi Ghat

Spend your afternoon resting at Assi Ghat, a popular spot for both locals and tourists, perfect for reflection.
Walk back to Assi Ghat, about 15 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Explore Local Markets

Indulge in some shopping at local markets, finding unique handicrafts and clothing to take home.
Stroll through the nearby narrow lanes leading into the market.
Variable, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Mangi Ferra Cafe

Experience a delightful dinner with vegetarian options and breathtaking views of the Ganges.
A 10-minute walk from the market area.
INR250, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Local Experiences and Farewell

Varanasi, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at Bihariji Lassi

Wake up and enjoy a refreshing lassi accompanied by upma, a perfect way to start your last day.
A short 10-minute walk from your hotel.
INR150, 1 hour

8:30AM

Visit Ramnagar Fort

Discover this historic fort located alongside the river, richly connected with the culture of Varanasi.
Take a rickshaw for about INR100.
INR100 for entry, 2 hours

10:30AM

Explore the Museum

Visit the museum inside the fort showcasing fascinating artifacts related to Varanasi's royal history.
Located within the fort compound.
Included in entry fee, 1 hour

11:30AM

Return to Varanasi City

Head back for a leisurely afternoon in the city.
Catch a rickshaw for the return journey, costing INR100.
INR100, 30 minutes

12:00PM

Lunch at Chaat Gully

Enjoy an array of street food specialties from various stalls in this well-known food lane.
A 5-minute walk to the popular food zone.
INR200, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit Tulsi Manas Temple

Explore this beautiful temple dedicated to the epic Ramayana, showcasing exquisite marble work.
Take a short 10-minute walk from Chaat Gully.
Free, 1 hour

2:00PM

Wrap Up Shopping

Spend your final hours shopping for last-minute souvenirs and local handicrafts.
Return to the markets you visited on Day 2.
Variable, 2 hours

4:00PM

Farewell Tea at River View Cafe

Relax with a cup of warm tea or coffee while reflecting on your Varanasi experience with views of the river.
A 10-minute walk from the market.
INR150, 1 hour

5:00PM

Departure

Conclude your adventurous yet relaxing trip with memories and stories to cherish.
Return to your accommodation or head to the railway station/bus stand.
Variable, 30 minutes
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