How many days do you need in Varanasi?

This itinerary covers 5 days in Varanasi, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for Varanasi?

Plan your perfect 5 days trip to Varanasi. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

5-Day Culinary Journey in Varanasi

Day 1: Arrival and Local Delicacies

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Kashi Chat Bhandar

Kickstart your day with Kashi Chat Bhandar’s famous Aloo Chaat and Lassi, a must-try local specialty.

INR 150, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Explore the sacred Kashi Vishwanath Temple, an iconic landmark that represents the spirituality of Varanasi.

Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Varanasi Chat Bhandar

Enjoy a hearty plate of Pani Puri and Bhalla, surrounded by the local ambiance.

INR 200, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore the Ghats

Take in the views along the Ganges River as you stroll through the historical ghats, watching life unfold.

Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Brown Bread Bakery

Enjoy organic food at this cozy café known for its delicious pizzas and pastries made from fresh ingredients.

INR 400, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Ganga Aarti Ceremony

Experience the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti, a spiritual ceremony that takes place each evening at Dashashwamedh Ghat.

Free, 1 hour

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Day 2: Street Food Exploration

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Madan Cafe

Savor a cup of steaming Masala Chai with crispy Samosas to fuel your day.

INR 200, 1 hour

10:00AM

Varanasi Food Tour

Join a guided food tour to uncover hidden food gems and learn about local culinary traditions.

INR 1200, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Annapurna Cafe

Enjoy traditional Bhojpuri Thali with a variety of curries, rice, and bread.

INR 300, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the Banaras Hindu University

Explore the beautiful campuses of one of the oldest universities in India and its cultural significance.

Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Snack at Chaat Wale Bhaiya

Indulge in delicious Benaras Chaat, a mix of spicy and sweet flavors that reflect the local taste.

INR 100, 30 minutes

8:00PM

Dinner at Vaatika Cafe

Wrap up your day with a delightful vegetarian dinner at this popular eatery known for its variety and ambiance.

INR 400, 1.5 hours

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Day 3: Cultural Experience and Cuisine

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Kashi

Start your day with a fresh fruit platter and fluffy pancakes rich in flavors and health.

INR 250, 1 hour

10:00AM

Cooking Class at Varanasi

Participate in a cooking class where you learn to prepare traditional Varanasi dishes using age-old recipes.

INR 1500, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe

Take a break and enjoy wood-fired pizzas that offer a taste of Italy right in the heart of India.

INR 400, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Dashashwamedh Ghat

Wander through stunning views and vibrant street life at one of Varanasi's most famous ghats.

Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Surya

Relish traditional Indian cuisine with a picturesque view of the Ganges River as you dine on unique preparations.

INR 500, 1.5 hours

8:30PM

Attend a Sufi Music Night

Experience a soul-stirring performance that combines spirituality and cultural richness.

INR 300, 1.5 hours

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Day 4: Temples and Local Markets

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Aum Cafe

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast of Masala Dosa and Coconut Chutney that warms the soul.

INR 200, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple

Pay your respects at this popular temple known for its beautiful architecture and spiritual atmosphere.

Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Explore the Local Market

Wander through the market, tasting street snacks and shopping for local handicrafts.

Variable (market prices), 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Bhojpuri Kitchen

Savor traditional Bhojpuri cuisine from rich gravies to aromatic rice dishes that define the local palate.

INR 300, 1 hour

4:00PM

Relax by the Ganges

Take a quiet moment beside the Ganges, sip chai, and soak in the local vibe.

INR 100, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Shankar Hotel

Indulge in a sumptuous dinner featuring an array of North Indian dishes, focusing on authentic flavors.

INR 500, 1.5 hours

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Day 5: Cultural Farewell and Food Sampling

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Kashi Cafe

Relish a continental breakfast with an Indian twist, offering both comfort and local flavors.

INR 300, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit the Sarnath Archaeological Site

Explore Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon, and enjoy the vast collection of ancient structures.

INR 200, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Jain Chaat Bhandar

Experience Jain-style chaat, with an array of unique and flavorful toppings to delight your taste buds.

INR 150, 1 hour

3:00PM

Free Time to Explore

Use this time to revisit your favorite spots or pick up some last-minute souvenirs.

Variable, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Rasoi

Celebrate your culinary journey with a traditional dinner featuring the best of Varanasi’s vegetarian delights.

INR 600, 2 hours

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Step 1 Outline Preview:

5-Day Culinary Journey in Varanasi

Day 1: Arrival and Local Delicacies

8:00AM

10:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

8:00PM

Day 2: Street Food Exploration

8:00AM

10:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

5:00PM

8:00PM

Day 3: Cultural Experience and Cuisine

8:00AM

10:00AM

1:30PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

8:30PM

Day 4: Temples and Local Markets

8:00AM

10:00AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

4:00PM

6:00PM

Day 5: Cultural Farewell and Food Sampling

8:00AM

10:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

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