Exploring the Spiritual Heart: A Budget 2-Day Itinerary in Varanasi

Day 1: Cultural Immersion

Varanasi, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Bread of Life

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at this local favorite, known for its fresh baked goods and hearty Indian breakfast options.
Head to the restaurant located about a 10-minute walk from the ghats.
INR 150, 1 hour

8:30AM

Morning Boat Ride on the Ganges

Experience the tranquil morning ambiance with a boat ride along the Ganges River, witnessing the morning rituals of the locals.
Board a boat from the Assi Ghat, which is also a short walk from your breakfast spot.
INR 200, 2 hours

10:30AM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Explore the sacred Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most famous Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Take a 15-minute walk from the ghat to reach the temple.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Kashi Chat Bhandar

Enjoy some local street food, especially their chat specialties at this popular eatery.
It's just a 5-minute walk from the temple.
INR 100, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore the Narrow Alleys of Varanasi

Wander through the narrow, bustling alleys of Varanasi, discovering local shops and engaging with friendly locals along the way.
Walk in the direction of the bustling markets around Vishwanath temple.
Free, 2 hours

3:00PM

Visit Sarnath

Take a rickshaw to Sarnath, where Buddha gave his first sermon; visit the ruins and museum.
It's approximately a 30-minute ride from Varanasi.
INR 500, 3 hours

6:00PM

Evening Aarti Ceremony

Return to the Ganges to witness the mesmerizing evening aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat, a spiritual spectacle not to be missed.
You can walk back or take a rickshaw to Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at the Ganges View

Indulge in dinner at this restaurant with a picturesque view of the Ganges River.
It's a short walk from the ghat.
INR 400, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Nature & History

Varanasi, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Kashi

Fuel up with a nutritious breakfast at this cozy cafe known for its healthy options and local brews.
A 15-minute walk from your lodging.
INR 200, 1 hour

8:30AM

Visit Banaras Hindu University

Explore the sprawling campus of BHU, one of the largest residential universities in Asia, known for its stunning architecture.
Take a rickshaw from the cafe, approximately 10 minutes away.
Free, 2 hours

10:30AM

Explore the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum

Located on the BHU campus, appreciate the vast collection of Indian Art and artifacts.
It's within the university grounds.
INR 200, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Vishal's

Savor North Indian delights at this affordable local dining spot popular among students.
Located a short rickshaw ride from BHU.
INR 150, 1 hour

1:00PM

Stroll by the Assi Ghat

Enjoy a leisurely stroll alongside the serene Assi Ghat, absorbing the peaceful surroundings and watching local life unfold.
Walk back towards the river, just 10 minutes away.
Free, 1 hour

2:00PM

Boat Ride to Ramnagar Fort

Take a boat across the river to visit the historical Ramnagar Fort, which offers a glimpse into the royal heritage of Varanasi.
Board a boat from Assi Ghat; tickets available on-site.
INR 300, 3 hours

5:00PM

Return to Varanasi and rest

Head back to your accommodation for some relaxation before dinner.
Take the same boat back across the river and then walk or rickshaw to your lodging.
INR 150, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Ganpati Restaurant

Conclude your adventure with dinner at this well-reviewed restaurant offering enchanting views of the Ganges and delicious vegetarian dishes.
A 10-minute walk back to Dashashwamedh Ghat.
INR 500, 1.5 hours
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